To address an anticipated pilot shortage, Air India is establishing its brand-new flying school in Amravati, Maharashtra. This ambitious academy aims to train a staggering 180 pilots annually, ensuring a steady stream of qualified aviators for the airline’s future.
Air India To Establish New Flying School
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The academy opens its doors to aspiring pilots with no prior flying experience. These eager recruits will embark on a full-time programme, with a clear path to joining Air India’s prestigious cockpit crew upon successful completion of subsequent training stages. This initiative marks a significant departure from the traditional approach employed by Indian airlines. Previously, major carriers like IndiGo and SpiceJet relied on collaborations with independent flight schools, both domestically and internationally. IndiGo, for example, has partnered with no less than seven such schools.
Air India is taking a more hands-on approach. To equip their academy, they’ve procured a fleet of around 30 aircraft, including both single-engine and multi-engine models. These planes hail from two renowned manufacturers – American company Piper and European giant Diamond. This investment ensures the academy has the necessary resources to deliver top-notch pilot training.
Help Combat Pilot Shortage
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The focus of the academy will initially be on fulfilling Air India’s internal pilot requirements. However, the Tata Group, which owns Air India, has hinted at potentially opening the academy’s doors to external candidates in the future. This could revolutionise pilot training in India, offering a more streamlined and potentially more affordable option for aspiring aviators.
The Indian government is actively encouraging the development of domestic commercial pilot training programmes. This initiative stems from the fact that over 40% of Indian students currently pursue their pilot training abroad. This incurs significant costs that can reach up to a staggering ₹1.5-2 crore. Air India’s academy has the potential to address this gap, providing high-quality training within India and keeping valuable resources within the country.
With its innovative pilot training academy, Air India is positioning itself for a smooth takeoff in the face of a looming pilot shortage. Additionally, this academy could also pave the way for a more robust domestic pilot training infrastructure.
Cover Image Courtesy: @airindia/ Instagram
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