Air India, India’s leading global airline, is set to establish South Asia’s largest Flying Training Organisation (FTO) at Amravati in Maharashtra, marking a significant initiative in collaboration with the Maharashtra Airport Development Company (MADC).
Details of the FTO:
Air India has been awarded a tender by MADC to set up and operate a DGCA-licensed FTO at Amravati’s Belora airport for a period of 30 years. The facility, expected to be operational by Q1 FY26, aims to graduate 180 commercial pilots annually. It will feature 31 single-engine and 3 twin-engine aircraft for comprehensive pilot training.
Significance for Indian Aviation:
Campbell Wilson, MD & CEO of Air India, highlighted the FTO’s role in enhancing India’s aviation self-reliance and creating ample opportunities for aspiring pilots across the country. The initiative aligns with Air India’s transformation journey towards becoming a world-class airline.
Economic Impact and Employment Opportunities:
The collaboration between MADC and Air India is expected to generate over 3,000 new jobs within the aviation sector in Maharashtra. Additionally, it will stimulate various allied activities in skilling, technical support, and small entrepreneurial ventures, contributing significantly to the state’s GDP.
Infrastructure and Features:
Spanning across 10 acres, the FTO will boast state-of-the-art facilities including digitally enabled classrooms, hostels, a digitised operations center, and a dedicated maintenance facility. It is designed to meet the highest safety standards and offer world-class training to aspiring pilots.
Government Support and Vision:
Swati Pandey, Vice Chairman & Managing Director of Maharashtra Airport Development Company, emphasized the FTO’s role in inspiring Maharashtra’s youth to pursue careers in aviation, aligning with the vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat.
Air India’s establishment of South Asia’s largest FTO in Amravati represents a significant stride towards bolstering India’s aviation infrastructure. The initiative not only aims to meet the growing demand for skilled pilots but also underscores Air India’s commitment to fostering excellence in aviation education and training.
