103-Year-Old IAF Veteran Who Served During World War 2 Passes Away

Squadron Leader Dalip Singh Majithia (retd), affectionately known as ‘Maji’ by his fellow air warriors, passed away at the age of 103 in Uttarakhand’s Rudrapur. He joined the Indian Air Force during World War II and earned a reputation as a fearless aviator with over 1,100 flying hours to his name, including missions in Hurricanes and Spitfires.

Sqn Ldr Majithia’s leadership skills were honed during the war, where he undertook patrolling, reconnaissance, and bombing missions with grit and courage. His tenure as flight commander of the legendary Number 4 Squadron at Burma from 1942 to 1943 is remembered for the bravery and camaraderie displayed under his guidance.

Born in Shimla on July 27, 1920, his passion for aviation led him to join the IAF volunteer reserve in 1940. He excelled in his training and was awarded the prestigious ‘Best Pilot Trophy’ at the Initial Training School in Walton, Lahore. His impressive legacy as an icon of the Indian Air Force will be fondly remembered by all who knew and served with him.