Heroic IAF officer who landed damaged bomber during 1971 Indo-Pak war dies at 81

Paravur, Kerala: Group Captain (Retd.) MK Raghava Menon, a decorated Indian Air Force veteran renowned for his exceptional bravery during the 1971 Indo-Pak war, passed away at the age of 81.

During the December 1971 conflict, Menon was piloting a bomber aircraft when it came under heavy anti-aircraft fire from Pakistani forces near the border. Despite being seriously injured and bleeding from shrapnel wounds after enemy shells struck the cockpit, he managed to fly the damaged aircraft back into Indian territory, ensuring both his own survival and the safe return of his aircraft.

On December 16, 1971, Menon had crossed the border carrying four 250-pound bombs as part of a strategic mission. While attacking the target, the bomber was hit by anti-aircraft shells, shattering parts of the cockpit and injuring him. Despite the life-threatening situation, he kept control of the aircraft and steered it home — a feat that became a symbol of extraordinary courage and composure under fire.

Even decades later, Menon reportedly kept the bullet-ridden uniform he had worn that day as a proud reminder of his service. For his heroism, he received a special gallantry medal from the Indian Air Force.

Born to late Dr MG Kunjan Pillai and Chandrika of Chendamangalam, Menon served as the President of the Paravur Town NSS Karayogam. His wife, Prasanna, predeceased him. He is survived by sons Lt. Col. Ajay Menon and Ashok Menon (a journalist based in Bengaluru), and daughters-in-law Sumithra Menon and Sreeja Menon.

The funeral will be held at 10 am on Friday at Thonniyakavu cemetery.

A symbol of grit and heroism

At just 27 years old, Group Captain Menon carried out one of the most daring air missions of the 1971 war.

His aircraft was hit about 80 kilometres inside Pakistani airspace, and powerful winds rushed through the shattered cockpit as the fuselage was torn open. Despite the chaos, Menon held his composure, manually controlled the damaged bomber and navigated it back into Indian airspace.

As he approached Indian territory, two Indian fighter jets mistook his aircraft for an enemy plane and prepared to engage. However, Menon managed to re-establish radio contact just in time, preventing a friendly fire incident and safely landing his aircraft.

He later spent two weeks in hospital, where fragments of the enemy shell were surgically removed.

Group Captain Menon’s bravery remains etched in the annals of Indian military history.