India government has decided to use non-operational airports for training new pilots in India. Currently, there is an overwhelming demand for pilots. Indian airlines meets much of its needs from foreign pilots and sometimes the shortages are so acute and flights are cancelled.
To overcome the same, AAI board has approved the proposal and formed a three-member panel headed by former Indian Air Force chief Fali H Major to decide on the number of airports that can be offered to pilot schools. There are things like weather, visibility and Air Traffic Control factors that should be taken into account while deciding on the airports that will be shortlisted for flying institutes.
According to industry estimates, the country now has about 8,000 pilots and its airlines will require an additional 17,000 in the next 10 years
Leave a Reply