Captain Devi Sharan is a seasoned Indian pilot best known for his heroic actions during the hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight 814 (IC 814) in December 1999. The flight, en route from Kathmandu to Delhi, was hijacked by five terrorists and diverted to multiple locations, including Amritsar, Lahore, Dubai, and finally Kandahar.
Early Life and Career: Captain Devi Sharan was born in Haryana, India, and began his career as a co-pilot before becoming the captain of a Boeing 737 and later an Airbus. He worked for Indian Airlines, which later merged with Air India, until his retirement in 2020.
The Hijacking Incident: On December 24, 1999, IC 814 was hijacked shortly after entering Indian airspace. Captain Sharan, along with his crew, faced immense pressure and threats from the hijackers, who demanded the release of three terrorists in exchange for the hostages. Despite the life-threatening situation, Captain Sharan maintained his composure and played a crucial role in ensuring the safety of the passengers and crew during the eight-day ordeal.
Legacy and Recognition: Captain Sharan’s bravery and leadership during the hijacking have been widely recognized. He co-authored a memoir titled “Flight Into Fear,” detailing his experiences during the hijacking. His story has also inspired a Netflix series, “IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack,” where actor Vijay Varma portrays him.
Personal Life: Captain Devi Sharan is married to Navneet Kaur, and they have two daughters, Diksha and Ashna, both of whom are also pilots. Despite the trauma of the hijacking, Captain Sharan continued his flying career and retired as a respected and decorated pilot.