Air India Launches Abinitio Fly High Cadet Pilot Program to Support Growing Fleet

India's flag carrier Air India which is planning to grow its fleet by 3x and which according to its CEO Campell Wilson will on average, induct one aircraft joining the fleet every six days throughout 2024, has launched a dedicated abinitio cadet pilot program with two international pilot training groups.

The program named "Fly High Pilot Cadet Program" will see training begin at the Air India Training Academy in Gurgaon, India (Ground School) before flight training at one of its training locations/training partners before completing the type rating in the Air India Aviation Academy simulator training center.

Air India has partnered with two international flight training organisations:

• AeroGuard Flight Training Center headquartered in Phoenix, United States
• L3Harris which will conduct the flight training in Sanford, United States

Air India has partnered with a financial institution for cadets to avail financing for training. However, cadets are free to choose any other financial partner as per their convenience.

Eligibility for Cadet Pilot Program

• Must be a citizen of India
• Shall demonstrate good command of written and spoken English
• A minimum height requirement of 158 cm
• Age eligibility: 18 to 30 years
• Candidates should be in good physical and mental health
• Must have the following educational qualification
  • High School Education Certificate (National Institute of Open Schooling is also accepted) with 60% in 10+2 including 60% marks in each of the following subjects English, Mathematics & Physics
• Candidates will be required to clear a medical test (DGCA Class 1 Medical) prior to starting flight training.

The whole program will take "approximately 24 months (inclusive of the type rating)".

Source: Air India