Air Commodore (Retired) Syed Sajjad Haider, a celebrated war hero, was laid to rest in Islamabad on Saturday. His funeral prayers were held at the cricket ground of Air Headquarters in the federal capital, attended by family, friends, and military officials.
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Born on December 26, 1932, in Sargodha, Haider was the son of Dr. Syed Fazal Shah, a prominent figure in the region. He spent his formative years in Quetta, where he grew up amidst the rich tribal cultures of the Baloch and Pashtoon communities, including the Bugtis, Marris, Kansis, Jogezais, and Durranis.
In January 1952, he joined the Royal Pakistan Air Force Academy as part of the 13th General Duties Pilot (GDP) Course. Haider’s illustrious military career included his posting to No. 14 Squadron under Squadron Leader Sarfraz Rafiqui, who was martyred during the 1965 war.
Air Commodore Haider played a pivotal role in the 1965 and 1971 wars against India. Notably, he led the daring Pathankot Airbase attack during the 1965 conflict. His exceptional skill and bravery were evident as he downed four Indian warplanes and destroyed 11 tanks, earning him a place among Pakistan’s most revered war heroes.
In addition to his military achievements, Haider chronicled his life and experiences in his memoir, Flight of the Falcon. His contributions to Pakistan’s defense and his legacy as a fearless aviator and patriot will be remembered for generations.
