Air India introduces a thorough program for pilot training

Monday, February 19, 2024

Air India, recognized as one of India’s premier airlines and the nation’s flag carrier, has announced the initiation of a comprehensive flight training program tailored for aspiring pilots, alongside training opportunities for cabin crew, ground staff, security personnel, and engineers. Nonetheless, the spotlight of this initiative is on the Fly High Pilot Cadet Program, specifically designed for pilot training.

The program is aimed at Indian nationals aged between 18 and 30 years, possessing a proficient level of English, maintaining good health, and demonstrating strong academic performance, offering them a pathway to pilot training for Air India’s expanding fleet. Selected candidates will embark on their journey with ground school training in India, followed by flight training either at the AeroGuard Flight Training Center in Phoenix, Arizona, or at the L3Harris Group’s campus in Sanford, Florida, in the United States.

Upon completion of their training in the US and acquisition of a Commercial Pilot’s License (CPL), the aspiring pilots will return to India to join Air India’s new Training Academy in Gurgaon. Here, they will undergo simulator training to meet specific type requirements before being qualified to pilot Air India’s commercial fleet. Air India commits to upholding high standards for its graduate pilots, as stated on its official website.

With a fleet comprising 143 aircraft and an unprecedented order of 484 additional aircraft, according to ch-aviation, Air India’s ambitious expansion plan includes acquiring 70 Airbus A320neos, 140 A321neos, 20 A350-900s, and 20 A350-1000s, alongside adjustments made in December 2023.

The Boeing fleet expansion includes 190 Boeing 737 MAX, 20 Boeing 787s, and ten new 777X airplanes. These modern aircraft, equipped with advanced cockpits featuring multi-function displays, flight computers, and head-up displays, necessitate a significant number of pilots, especially for long-haul flights which require multiple pilots.

This initiative by Air India is poised to significantly influence the tourism sector from its inception to its culmination. By bolstering its pilot ranks with well-trained professionals, Air India is set to enhance its operational capacity, thereby increasing the frequency and destinations of its flights.

This expansion is expected to boost accessibility to and from India, encouraging an uptick in international and domestic travel. The introduction of modern aircraft into the fleet will not only improve the travel experience but also position Air India as a competitive player on the global stage, contributing to the growth of the tourism industry in India.

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