MS Dhoni earns his wings: Former India captain becomes certified drone pilot

MS Dhoni's love for machines is no secret. Whether it's taking his vintage cars out for a spin or cruising on one of his superbikes through the streets of Ranchi, the former India captain has always had a fascination for engines and technology. Now, he's added another feather to his cap - flying drones.

On Tuesday, October 8, Dhoni announced on social media that he has officially obtained a drone pilot licence. Garuda Aerospace, one of India's leading drone manufacturers, confirmed that their brand ambassador and investor successfully completed his drone pilot training at the company's DGCA-approved Remote Pilot Training Organization in Chennai.

Garuda Aerospace has trained over 2,500 aspiring pilots under the supervision of experienced instructors. Speaking about Dhoni's latest achievement, Agnishwar Jayaprakash, Founder and CEO of Garuda Aerospace, said:

"Having our brand ambassador and investor, MS Dhoni, personally undergo the training and get certified as a pilot is a monumental milestone for us. He picked it up very quickly and was extremely focused on learning. His belief in our mission to revolutionise the drone industry is a massive source of encouragement for the entire team. Mahi Bhai is an inspiration, and his hands-on approach validates our commitment to skill and innovation in this sector."

Dhoni has long shown a desire to explore new passions beyond cricket. A known admirer of the armed forces, he was conferred the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army's Parachute Regiment (106 Para TA Battalion) in 2011.

In 2019, Dhoni completed a 15-day stint with his battalion in Jammu and Kashmir, serving with the Victor Force and participating in duties such as patrolling and guard duty. He later qualified as a trained paratrooper after completing five parachute jumps from a C-130J Super Hercules aircraft.

Since retiring from international cricket in 2020, Dhoni has limited his on-field appearances to the Indian Premier League, where he continues to lead Chennai Super Kings. Off the field, he's kept himself busy with his wide range of interests - from farming and vintage automobiles to golf and badminton.

Dhoni was recently spotted playing golf in the United States, even sharing a round with former U.S. President Donald Trump. At his farmhouse in Ranchi, he has been seen cultivating strawberries and driving tractors - perfectly in line with his reputation as someone who keeps evolving, learning, and staying grounded.