Air India has ordered 34 trainer aircraft for its forthcoming flying school in Amravati, where it is anticipated that 180 commercial pilots will graduate each year to address the increasing demand for pilots. The flying training organization (FTO) in Amravati, Maharashtra, is projected to be operational by the latter half of 2025.
The recent acquisition includes 31 single-engine planes from Piper Aircraft in the United States and three twin-engine planes from Diamond Aircraft based in Austria.
In the past two years, the Tata Group-backed airline has secured a total of 570 commercial aircraft—220 from Boeing in the US and 350 from Airbus in Europe.
“The trainer aircraft, scheduled for delivery starting in 2025, come outfitted with glass cockpits, G1000 avionics systems, and Jet A1 engines, ensuring cutting-edge training for future pilots. The FTO is being established at Belora airport in Amravati and aims to graduate 180 commercial pilots annually,” the airline stated.
Trainer aircraft are lightweight and simplified planes tailored for flight instruction, focusing on maneuverability and fundamental controls for beginner pilots. In contrast, commercial aircraft are larger, designed for the transportation of passengers or cargo, and prioritize efficiency, comfort, and advanced avionics.
“The new FTO represents a strategic effort to significantly enhance our training infrastructure and our dedication to establishing a self-sufficient ecosystem of qualified pilots for both Air India and the Indian aviation sector,” remarked Sunil Bhaskaran, Director of the Aviation Academy at Air India.
At the FTO site, the airline is constructing a training facility spanning over 10 acres, which will include a hostel, a digitized operations center, and its own maintenance facility.
The Air India Group, which encompasses its low-cost subsidiary Air India Express, currently operates a total fleet of approximately 300 commercial aircraft. The Group anticipates expanding its fleet size to about 400 commercial planes within the next three years.
State-of-the-Art Aircraft for Superior Training
The aircraft set to arrive in 2025 are designed with glass cockpits, G1000 avionics, and Jet A1 engines, offering state-of-the-art training for aspiring pilots. These features embody the latest advancements in aviation technology, providing trainees with a realistic learning experience that mimics actual flight conditions.
Aligning with Air India’s Vision for Expansion
This initiative is a vital component of Air India’s Vihaan AI transformation strategy, which aims to enhance its operational capabilities while supporting the airline’s ambitious growth objectives. By investing in local training infrastructure, the airline is laying the groundwork for self-reliance in pilot development as its fleet continues to expand.
Preparing the Next Generation of Pilots
Situated at Belora Airport in Amravati, the FTO is dedicated to training and graduating 180 commercial pilots annually, meeting the rising demand for proficient aviation experts both in India and internationally. This initiative not only highlights Air India’s dedication to excellence but also establishes a new benchmark for pilot training within the region.
Through this innovative strategy, Air India is paving a new path for aviation education, equipping aspiring pilots with the essential skills and knowledge required to thrive in a rapidly changing industry.
Air India has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing aviation training with the inauguration of its new Aviation Training Academy in Gurugram. Covering an impressive 600,000 square feet, it is recognized as the largest training facility in South Asia. This achievement also positions Air India as the first airline in India to declare the establishment of a Flying Training Organization (FTO), further cementing its commitment to fortifying the nation’s aviation framework.
The forthcoming FTO in Amravati is poised to transform pilot training with a cutting-edge institute spanning 10 acres. Engineered to comply with global standards, it will boast digitally equipped classrooms, on-site accommodation, a digitized operations center, and an in-house maintenance facility to enhance operational efficacy. Committed to delivering world-class training, the FTO emphasizes stringent safety measures while providing superior education for aspiring aviation professionals.
Significance for Indian Aviation
Campbell Wilson, MD & CEO of Air India, emphasized that the Amravati flying training organization represents a pivotal advancement towards self-sufficiency in Indian aviation. The institution aims to create more pathways for Indian youth to embark on careers as pilots. Although there are more than 34 authorized training schools in India, 40% of pilots currently complete their training abroad. This initiative aims to bridge that gap, contributing to the nation’s aviation self-reliance.
Supporting Government Vision
Sunil Bhaskaran, Director of the Aviation Academy at Air India, articulated the company’s dedication to supporting the government’s vision for an Atmanirbhar Bharat. By bolstering India’s aviation infrastructure, Air India aspires to cater to the demands of one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets. The airline currently operates a fleet of approximately 140 aircraft and has recruited over a thousand pilots in the past two years.
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