GURUGRAM- Tata Group-owned Air India (AI) has announced the acquisition of 34 trainer aircraft to enhance the training of cadet pilots at South Asia’s largest Flying Training Organisation (FTO). This facility is projected to open at Belora Airport in Amravati, Maharashtra, in the latter half of 2025, subject to regulatory approvals.
The order comprises 31 single-engine aircraft from U.S.-based Piper Aircraft and three twin-engine aircraft from Austria’s Diamond Aircraft. These modern aircraft, featuring advanced glass cockpits, G1000 avionics systems, and Jet A1 engines, are set to deliver state-of-the-art training for future pilots.
Air India Orders 34 Trainer Aircraft
This initiative is part of Air India’s Vihaan.AI transformation program, aimed at bolstering training infrastructure and ensuring a consistent flow of skilled pilots to support its growing fleet.
The FTO is expected to graduate 180 commercial pilots each year, reinforcing Air India’s commitment to self-sufficiency in pilot training.
Deliveries of the trainer aircraft are set to commence in 2025.
Sunil Bhaskaran, Director of Air India’s Aviation Academy, noted that this initiative is in line with the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, addressing the increasing demand for skilled pilots in India’s rapidly growing aviation market.
The upcoming FTO will occupy 10 acres at Belora Airport and will feature cutting-edge facilities, including digitally equipped classrooms, a modern operations center, on-site maintenance areas, and accommodation for trainees. Designed according to global standards, this institute aims to provide high-quality training with an emphasis on safety and operational excellence.
This announcement follows Air India’s recent inauguration of its Aviation Training Academy in Gurugram, which spans 600,000 sq ft and is recognized as the largest facility in South Asia. This academy is integral to Air India’s Vihaan.AI transformation program, which seeks to enhance India’s aviation training infrastructure and establish a self-reliant pipeline of qualified pilots.
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Bhavya Velani is the Founder of Aviation A2Z. Bhavya started Aviation A2Z as a YouTube channel and has created unique and engaging content for aviation professionals. He is passionate about writing aviation blogs and producing content. Founded in 2018, Aviation A2Z has rapidly grown, attracting 1 million monthly visitors. Bhavya also contributes to various global publications, including Airways Magazine, AIRLIVE, AeroXplorer, and Travel Radar.
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