Air India and Airbus have opened a new pilot training centre in Gurugram, Haryana. This modern facility is part of the Air India Aviation Training Academy. It shows their strong focus on building skilled aviation talent in India.
Meeting the Growing Demand for Pilots
India’s aviation sector is growing fast. Air India has ordered over 570 new aircraft. To support this growth, the airline needs many more trained pilots. This new centre will train over 5,000 pilots in the next 10 years.
The centre is a 50:50 partnership between Air India and Airbus. It was launched in the presence of Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu. Leaders from Airbus, Air India, and the Tata Group also attended the event.
Modern Facilities and Global Standards
The facility spans 12,000 square metres. It houses 10 Full Flight Simulators (FFSs), modern classrooms, and briefing rooms. Currently, two Airbus A320 simulators are operational. However, six more A320 and two A350 simulators will be added in phases.
The training programmes follow standards set by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). As a result, the dual certification ensures global recognition and opens international career opportunities for Indian pilots.
A Big Step for Indian Aviation
Jürgen Westermeier, head of Airbus India and South Asia, said this is more than a business deal. He called it a smart investment in India’s aviation future. He also said Airbus is proud to help grow local talent.
Campbell Wilson, CEO of Air India, said the centre is a key part of the airline’s transformation. He believes training pilots in-house will help Air India become a top global airline.
Centralising Training Operations
Air India has consolidated its pilot training operations into this Gurugram-based Aviation Training Academy. It is now the largest such facility in South Asia. Established in 2024, the academy trains over 2,000 aviation professionals daily. Furthermore, it aims to train more than 50,000 individuals across various roles in the coming years.
The academy offers immersive training for cabin crew, ground handling, engineering, and security staff. It features advanced equipment for Safety and Emergency Procedures (SEP), service training, grooming, and voice and accent coaching.
One Campus for All Training
Air India has moved all its pilot training to this Gurugram campus. It is now the largest aviation training centre in South Asia. The academy opened in 2024 and already trains over 2,000 people every day.
Besides pilots, the centre also trains cabin crew, engineers, and ground staff. It has tools for safety drills, service training, grooming, and voice coaching.
More Training Projects Underway
This centre is just one part of Air India’s bigger training plan. The airline is also building a large Flying Training Organisation (FTO) in Amravati, Maharashtra. It will train 180 new pilots every year.
In addition, Air India is setting up a Basic Maintenance Training Organisation (BMTO) in Bengaluru. This will support the airline’s new aircraft repair and maintenance hub, which is expected to open by FY27.
Conclusion
The new pilot training centre by Air India and Airbus is a big step forward. It will help India become a global leader in aviation training. The centre offers world-class tools, expert guidance, and global certifications.
As India’s skies get busier, this centre will prepare the next generation of pilots to fly safely and confidently.
