Key Points
- Ratan Tata is a licensed pilot who’s super into flying.
- He had a near-death experience in a Tri-Pacer while in college.
- Tata managed a crazy emergency landing when the engine failed.
- He flew an F-16 at 69, becoming the oldest Indian to take the controls.
- This love for flying got some spotlight in a 2009 documentary.
Looma News
Ratan Tata’s passion for flying is more than just a pastime; it’s a wild adventure that’s been a huge part of his life. As a licensed pilot, he’s often up in the skies in his company’s jet. But let’s be real, it hasn’t always been smooth sailing—or flying!
A Close Call
Back in the ’60s, while he was studying at Cornell, Tata had a super intense moment that almost dashed his flying dreams. He decided to take some classmates for a joyride in a single-engine Tri-Pacer. Just when everything seemed great, bam! The engine failed. Talk about freak-out mode!
But Tata stayed calm. He shared how the plane started shaking and then went totally quiet when the prop stopped. With some serious guts, he pulled off what he called the best landing ever at Ithaca Tompkins International Airport. This wild story became a highlight in a 2009 reunion documentary with his Cornell buddies.
Living the Dream
Fast forward to 2007, and Tata’s flying passion was still going strong. At 69, he amazed everyone at the Bengaluru Aero event by piloting an F-16 fighter jet. Not only did he fly it, but he also made history as the oldest Indian to take the controls of an F-16. What a dream come true!
Tata’s love for aviation really shows off his adventurous spirit and resilience. His flying adventures remind us that even the craziest journeys can hit a few bumps, but that just makes the ride even more thrilling.
