Khar's 17-year-old Jayhan Bhagvati makes history as Maharashtra's youngest private pilot

At just 17 years old, Jayhan Bhagvati from Khar, Mumbai, has etched his name in the annals of aviation history by becoming the youngest private pilot in Maharashtra. Jayhan, born into a family with a profound aviation legacy, received his pilot's license on March 21, surpassing the previous record held by Neetu Gupta, who attained her license at the age of 18 in 2002.

The Bhagvati family's connection with aviation runs deep, with Jayhan's father, Mihir Bhagvati, serving as the President of the Bombay Flying Club. Jayhan's journey to this milestone was paved with early exposure to flying, mentored closely by his father, who is also his first instructor.

Breaking records isn't just about personal triumph for Jayhan, it's a testament to his family's passion for aviation. His grandfather's tenure as Chief Engineer with Air India and his father's role as a DGCA Examiner, set the stage for Jayhan's aspirations to soar to new heights. With a lineage steeped in aviation, Jayhan's journey was almost predestined. Born into a family where flying is not just a profession but a passion, Jayhan's earliest memories include sitting in the cockpit alongside his father.

Jayhan's dedication to his craft and his relentless pursuit of excellence culminated in his first solo flight in May 2023 and his successful flying test in January 2024, setting a new standard in the aviation landscape of Maharashtra. His father fondly recalls Jayhan's keen interest in flying from a tender age, reminiscing about their flights together in the Cessna 172 and Jayhan's astute observation of his manoeuvres, even during turbulent times.

With his aim set on obtaining a commercial pilot license, Jayhan is diligently working towards accumulating the mandatory 200 hours of flying. His ambition to pursue a BSc in Aviation underscores his commitment to carving out a distinguished career in the field.

As Jayhan Bhagvati continues to soar through Mumbai's skies, his journey epitomises the transformative impact of passion, perseverance, and mentorship. His achievements break barriers and illuminate the boundless possibilities for those who dare to dream big. Jayhan's ascent heralds a new era in Maharashtra's aviation history, promising a future where the sky is no longer the limit, but just the beginning of extraordinary journeys.