The nation commemorated the birth anniversary of Air Commodore Mir Alam Khan (Sitara-e-Jurat) on September 5, paying tribute to the legendary transport aviator whose heroic exploits in the 1971 War remain etched in Pakistan Air Force (PAF) history.
Today in History
On this day, 05 September, we commemorate the birthday of Air Cdre Mir Alam Khan, SJ — a gallant transport aviator and fearless combat leader whose remarkable courage and devotion to duty distinguished him in the annals of Pakistan Air Force.
After earning his… pic.twitter.com/COyxazYNAs
— DGPR (AIR FORCE) (@DGPR_PAF) September 5, 2026
Having earned his wings in 1962, then-Flight Lieutenant Mir Alam served with No. 19 Squadron before joining No. 6 Squadron as a C-130 Hercules pilot. On December 6, 1971, he was tasked with leading a high-risk night bombing mission against India’s strategic Jaisalmer airfield. While his fully loaded, unarmed C-130 was being readied at Mianwali Airbase, an enemy air raid struck the base. Exhibiting exceptional calm under fire, he taxied onto the runway and took off through ongoing bombardment.
Flying deep into enemy territory at deck level to evade detection, Mir Alam pressed home the low-level strike despite heavy anti-aircraft fire. Although his aircraft sustained hits, he successfully delivered his payload—leaving the Jaisalmer airfield in flames—and skilfully navigated the damaged Hercules back to safety. His gallantry earned him the Sitara-e-Jurat, serving as an enduring symbol of PAF valor.
