Training

The collaboration aims to create a future ready workforce for India’s rapidly expanding aviation ecosystem Greater Noida, 2nd April 2026: The School for Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (SAME), promoted by InterGlobe Group and one of India’s leading AME schools, has announced its selection by IndiGo as the official training partner for its Cadet AME program. This specialized training pathway is designed to identify, train, and prepare high-potential students to become market-ready Aircraft Maintenance Engineers, meeting the escalating demands of India’s booming aviation sector. With the country projected to become one of the world’s top aviation markets, the rapid growth in passenger traffic and aircraft induction has created an urgent need for technically skilled, DGCA‑licensed professionals. The Cadet AME Program directly addresses this gap by creating a structured, high performance talent pipeline. Cadets will be trained in an environment that mirrors the real-world operational expectations, ensuring a seamless transition into active maintenance roles. By combining SAME’s academic excellence with IndiGo’s operational ecosystem, the Cadet AME program sets a new benchmark for technical aviation education in India. The program leverages SAME’s state-of-the-art infrastructure, advanced training aids, and a faculty of seasoned industry professionals to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and airline-specific readiness. This collaboration aims to strengthen India’s long-term maintenance workforce and provide a direct pathway to aspiring engineers towards impactful, future-ready careers. Aditya Pande, Group Chief Executive Officer, InterGlobe Enterprises, said, “The Indian aviation sector is on a remarkable growth trajectory, accentuated by the country’s massive aircraft orders. This requires an equally robust and skilled workforce of competent Aircraft Maintenance Engineers. Our collaboration with IndiGo for the Cadet AME Program is a strategic step towards building this critical talent pool. It ensures that future AMEs are not just academically proficient but are job-ready, contributing directly to India’s aviation safety and efficiency. At InterGlobe, we remain committed to nurturing the next generation of aviation professionals.” Parichay Datta, Senior Vice President Engineering, IndiGo, said, “India is the world’s third-largest domestic aviation market and is increasingly emerging as a key driver of global aviation growth. IndiGo mirrors this trajectory, with an order book of over 900 aircraft scheduled to join our fleet over the next decade, underscoring our long-term commitment to scale and network expansion. In this context, our collaboration with SAME to launch the Cadet AME Program is both timely and strategic. This initiative will play an important role in building a sustainable talent pipeline, developing highly skilled, industry-ready aviation maintenance professionals who will, in time, form the backbone of IndiGo’s expansion and contribute meaningfully to the broader development of India’s aviation ecosystem.” Selection Process Through this program, the School for Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (SAME) will select 30 cadets in the Category B1.1 (Aeroplanes Turbine) category from its 2026-27 academic intake. The selection involves a rigorous screening process, including an entrance examination and academic evaluation. Shortlisted candidates will then undergo a final personal assessment administered by IndiGo. The Cadets will complete theoretical instruction and practical workshop training at SAME’s world class facilities, while Actual Environment Training (AET) will be conducted at IndiGo’s maintenance bases. The curriculum will be further strengthened with an enhanced focus on DGCA modules, technical accuracy, regulatory compliance, and conceptual depth. Professional Growth The program offers a direct professional trajectory for aspiring engineers as IndiGo will offer employment to cadets as Junior Cadet AMEs, subject to full compliance with all prescribed terms and conditions, as well as the successful completion of all required DGCA-approved modules and examinations. By aligning academic rigor with industry-leading operational standards, this Cadet AME Program aims to ensure a steady pipeline of skilled engineers to support the safety and scale of India’s growing aviation sector.

New Delhi, 31st March 2026: Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya (GSV) have signed an MoU with an objective of sharing/enhancing of knowledge, skills relevant to the scientific, technological, and management aspects in the broad areas of Aviation, Aviation Engineering and Aviation Management. It was signed by DGCA Shri Faiz Ahmed Kidwai and Vice Chancellor of GSV Prof Manoj Choudhury in the presence of Minister of Civil Aviation Shi Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu and Minster of Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics and Information Technology Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw. Secretary, Civil Aviation Shri Samir Kumar Sinha, Chairman Railway Board Shri Satish Kumar and other senior officials from DGCA, Railways and GSV were also present during the occasion. Speaking on the occasion, Shi Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu said, “On a very historic MoU that we have signed between Gati Shakti and DGCA, I would first like to congratulate both the units for being the foundation of one of the most important MoUs that is going to transform the overall aviation sector in terms of the workforce that we are trying to build for tomorrow,” adding, “Under the visionary leadership of our Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, we have witnessed tremendous success in the last 12 years. Especially what started as the mantra “hawai chappal se hawai jahaj ka safar”, where we wanted aviation to be not just an exclusive sector for travel but an inclusive sector for travel.” The primary objective of this MoU is to promote quality manpower for the aviation and MRO sector through an undergraduate degree in Aviation Maintenance Engineering (AME) by enhanced industry-academia partnerships. The curriculum shall be implemented from the upcoming academic year 2026-27 (August 2026) onwards. In opening remark Hon’ble Minister of Civil Aviation addressed the gathering saying that signing of this MoU is a historic moment. Both GSV and DGCA will work together and collaboratively design a future-ready three-year B.Sc. (AME) curriculum that seamlessly integrates academic depth, regulatory compliance, and industry-aligned competencies to power India’s next-generation MRO. In the MoU, it has also been proposed that GSV shall also work with DGCA as its research / knowledge partner in the field of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF), Aircraft Maintenance, Parts Manufacturing and its integration. GSV will also support in the capacity building and training of other DGCA officers. Speaking about the future of aviation sector in the country, the Minister said, “The most important part in the aviation sector is how well we are able to create an aviation manufacturing ecosystem in the country, and this is something we have focused on. We have seen tremendous success in the last 5 years, especially in terms of MROs, which have increased from around 160 to more than 240.” Shri Shi Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu further elaborated, “We always talk about the demand India is creating in aviation. It is a very huge figure—we have around 1700 aircraft on order, which itself gives you the picture of nearly 2X of the current fleet. These aircraft are going to take few years to come into our airspace. Once the whole ecosystem is built, we may have up to 3,000 aircraft in our airspace by, probably, 2036.” He said that by then, all these aircraft must be supported by the right workforce. The requirement for pilots in the next 10 years is going to be around 10,000 to 12,000. Currently, many pilots prefer to do their training outside and then come back to India. Speaking about achieving Viksit Bharat by 2047, the Minister said, “By 2047, we aim to become a developed country, and for that, we must be self-reliant. We want to see an Atmanirbhar Bharat—where we make in India and train in India. All these components, when combined together, are what this MoU is going to focus on.” In closing remark Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw reiterated that the GSV has already earned its worldwide reputation and entered in collaboration with sixty two industry partners to produce industry ready professionals. He also called upon to establish a centre of excellence for precision manufacturing engineering in GSV to support the initiative of Viksit Bharat. This MoU will establish structured bridge between regulation, academia, and industry. While DGCA continues to set licensing standards under CAR-66 and CAR-147 frameworks, GSV shall function as a national academic anchor for curriculum innovation, instructor development, research integration, and industry-linked apprenticeship models. By embedding hands-on MRO training, simulation labs, OEM partnerships, and competency-based learning pathways into AME education, the GSV- DGCA collaboration shall create a future-ready workforce capable of supporting India’s expanding airline fleets and positioning the country as a competitive global MRO destination not only for aircraft maintenance but also for aircraft manufacturing.

Jeddah,20 February 2026: Saudia Group has graduated and integrated over 1,000 trainees into its aviation workforce, marking one of the largest cohorts completed and absorbed in a single year in the Group’s history. The milestone strengthens the Kingdom’s aviation talent pipeline in support of the National Aviation Strategy. The graduates completed eight specialized programs delivered by Saudia Group and its subsidiaries, including Saudia, Saudia Academy, Saudia Technic, Saudi Ground Services (SGS), SAL Saudi Logistics Services, flyadeal and CATRION. Upon completion, the graduates joined Saudia Group entities in operational roles across flight operations, ground services, engineering, logistics and customer-facing functions, directly supporting the Group’s expanding aviation ecosystem. The graduation was held under the patronage of His Excellency Engr. Saleh Al-Jasser, Minister of Transport and Logistics Services, in the presence of His Excellency Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia Group, alongside senior officials and representatives from the aviation sector. His Excellency Engr. Saleh Al-Jasser said: “Developing national talent is fundamental to achieving the ambitions of the National Aviation Strategy. Graduating more than 1,000 aviation professionals in a single year reflects the scale and pace of transformation underway across the Kingdom’s transport and logistics sector. Human capital remains our most important investment as we build a globally competitive aviation ecosystem.” His Excellency Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar added: “Saudia Group has made significant progress in localizing critical aviation roles, surpassing targeted performance indicators by margins ranging from 43% to 230%. We have also embedded knowledge transfer requirements into our agreements with global manufacturers to ensure the development of Saudi capabilities within the Kingdom. The next phase of our transformation, particularly as we elevate the guest experience and strengthen global competitiveness, depends on continued investment in specialized national talent.” Saudia Group continues to invest in national capabilities as the foundation of its long-term growth strategy. Through ongoing expansion across fleet, infrastructure, and training, the Group plays a central role in connecting the Kingdom to global markets and supporting national objectives across tourism, logistics, and the service of pilgrims.

Houston, 20th February 2026: CPaT Global, the provider of distance learning for the airline and aviation industry has announced they have been awarded a new contract with Z Air. CPaT will be providing Z Air with a range of training products, including Embraer 145 Aircraft Systems and General Subjects for pilots, as well as Cabin Crew Safety Subjects for cabin crew members. In addition, Z Air will be equipped with CPaT Invent, enabling the airline to create and modify content as needed to support its operations. “Providing operators with the ability to manage and update training content is an important part of maintaining effective training programs,” said Capt. Greg Darrow, Vice President of Sales. “We’re pleased to support Z Air with training tools that align with their operational needs.” “This partnership with CPaT strengthens how we train and support our pilots and cabin crew,” said René Winkel, CEO of Z Air. “With modern, standardized digital training, we can keep our teams aligned, compliant, and ready as we continue to grow.”

Mumbai, 19th February 2026: The Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the establishment of a National Centre of Excellence (NCoE) for Skilling in Aeronautics and Defence at National Skill Training Institute (NSTI), Kanpur, in collaboration with the Government of the French Republic under the Pradhan Mantri Skilling and Employability Transformation through Upgraded ITIs (PM-SETU) scheme of Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE). The Prime Minister announced this statement was made during a joint press statement with the President of France while inaugurating the India–France Year of Innovation and related cooperation initiatives, including the National Centre of Excellence for Skilling in Aeronautics. The proposed NCoE at Kanpur will focus on advanced skill training in aeronautics, Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO), airport operations, defence manufacturing and allied domains. It is envisaged as a world-class institution that will strengthen India’s capacity in aviation skilling while supporting the country’s growing aerospace and defence ecosystem. Jayant Chaudhary, Hon’ble Minister of State (Independent Charge), for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and Minister of State for Education, Government of India said, “Under the visionary leadership of the Hon’ble Prime Minister, PM-SETU is redefining the future of India’s ITI ecosystem. The National Centre of Excellence in Aviation at Kanpur will not only create a pipeline of globally competent aviation professionals but also deepen India’s strategic partnership with France in emerging and advance technology sectors. This initiative reflects our commitment to aligning skills with global standards, enabling mobility, and preparing our youth for emerging opportunities in aeronautics, defence and advanced manufacturing.” A Letter of Intent (LoI) has been exchanged between the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), Government of India, and the Government of the French Republic to collaborate on the establishment of this Centre under the PM-SETU scheme. The intent builds upon the India–France Strategic Partnership and the Memorandum of Understanding that was signed in 2025 in the field of skill development and vocational education and training. The proposed collaboration envisages co-designed curricula, structured training-of-trainers programmes, periodic joint review of programmes, exchange initiatives, language training and development of structured mobility pathways, along with cooperation in aeronautics, space and allied domains. The Letter of Intent serves as a record of intent pending the execution of a specific agreement governing the activities contemplated under this initiative. The establishment of the India–France National Centre of Excellence in Aviation marks a significant step in strengthening India’s skilling architecture, reinforcing global partnerships and advancing the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 through high-quality, industry-integrated vocational education and training. With an overall outlay of Rs 60,000 crore, PM-SETU aims to upgrade 1000 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) across the country, modernising infrastructure, aligning curricula with industry demand and strengthening employability outcomes. In addition to Kanpur’s aviation-focused Centre, the other proposed National Centres of Excellence will cater to sectoral priorities aligned with regional industrial strengths, including advanced manufacturing, emerging technologies and high-growth service sectors at Ludhiana, Hyderabad, Chennai and Bhubaneswar.

Delhi, 26th January 2026: Zest Corporation Private Limited has been appointed as the Authorised Sales Representative for ZLIN Aircraft for the India and United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.) markets, marking a significant milestone in the expansion of ZLIN Aero’s presence across South Asia and the Middle East. ZLIN Aircraft, manufactured by ZLIN Aircraft a.s., Czech Republic, is globally renowned for its robust engineering, aerobatic pedigree, and proven reliability in pilot training, aerobatic flying, and special mission operations. With a legacy spanning over eight decades, ZLIN aircraft continue to be a preferred choice for flying schools, defence organisations, aero clubs, and private operators worldwide. The appointment of Zest Corporation reflects a strategic alignment between ZLIN’s heritage of precision aircraft manufacturing and Zest’s growing footprint in aircraft sales, aviation consultancy, regulatory coordination, and aircraft lifecycle support. Strengthening Regional Access to Proven Training Platforms Under this authorisation, Zest Corporation will represent ZLIN’s portfolio of aircraft—most notably the ZLIN 242L ZEUS, and ZLIN 143 L—to customers in India and the U.A.E. The focus will be on ab-initio and advanced pilot training, aerobatic training, and fleet expansion for aviation academies and private operators. India and the U.A.E. are witnessing sustained growth in aviation training demand, driven by airline fleet expansion, pilot shortages, and the emergence of new flight training organisations (FTOs). ZLIN aircraft, known for their handling characteristics, rugged airframes, and cost-effective operations, are well positioned to address this demand. End-to-End Sales and Customer Support As the authorised sales representative, Zest Corporation will provide end-to-end commercial and technical coordination, including: • Aircraft sales and contract facilitation • Customer liaison with the OEM • Regulatory coordination with DGCA (India) and GCAA (U.A.E.) • Delivery oversight and entry-into-service support • Post-sale technical coordination and lifecycle assistance • Aircraft Parts Support for Zlin Aircraft Operators Zest Corporation’s experience in regulatory engagement and aircraft technical services is expected to streamline induction timelines and simplify the procurement process for regional customers. Leadership Perspective Commenting on the appointment, the Directors of Zest Corporation Private Limited said, “We are honoured to represent ZLIN Aircraft in India and the U.A.E. ZLIN’s aircraft are respected globally for their performance and durability, particularly in pilot training environments. This partnership allows us to bring a proven European training platform to two rapidly growing aviation markets, supported by local coordination and long-term customer engagement.” Expanding ZLIN’s Global Reach For ZLIN Aircraft, the partnership reinforces its commitment to expanding global reach through capable regional representatives who understand local market dynamics and regulatory frameworks. With this appointment, Zest Corporation Private Limited strengthens its position as a trusted interface between international aircraft manufacturers and regional operators, contributing to the development of safer, more efficient, and sustainable aviation ecosystems in India and the U.A.E. Zest Corporation MRO Presence Zest Corporation is the authorised representative of StandardAero’s Helicopter Division and Business Aviation Division in India, delivering globally proven engine maintenance solutions to helicopter and business jet operators across the country. Through this partnership, Indian operators gain direct access to OEM-approved engine repair and overhaul (MRO) services, supported by StandardAero’s extensive international footprint, advanced technical capabilities, and decades of operational experience. Zest Corporation supports a wide spectrum of rotary- and fixed-wing operations, including offshore, emergency medical services, charter, corporate, and government fleets. The collaboration enables operators to benefit from reliable turnaround times, high technical standards, and predictable maintenance outcomes, helping them maintain fleet availability while effectively managing operating costs. In addition to repair and overhaul services, Zest Corporation facilitates engine and engine module exchange programs, offering operators a powerful solution to minimise aircraft downtime and mitigate AOG exposure. These exchange options provide flexibility in maintenance planning and allow operators to keep aircraft flying while engines or modules undergo scheduled maintenance. With a strong local presence in India and seamless coordination with StandardAero’s global MRO network, Zest Corporation acts as a single, trusted interface for operators seeking responsive support, technical assurance, and world-class engine care. Together, Zest Corporation and StandardAero are committed to supporting the growing helicopter and business aviation market in India with dependable, efficient, and internationally benchmarked engine solutions. ( Zest Corporation is exhibiting at Wings India 2026 in Hyderabad. To meet the Director/s visit them at Booth A; Stall No. 9A)

New Delhi, 23rd January 2026: Fliteline Aviation Academy Pvt. Ltd. is the newly launched initiative of the Fliteline Group which has been brought in to the existence, keeping the future demand of trained and skilled manpower for different verticals of Aviation Industry in India and other South East Asian Countries. Fliteline Aviation Academy has recently obtained approval by DGCA, India to impart DGR CBTA Training Program. Apart from this, it is already approved by AASSC, NSDC, Govt. of India to impart various short term professional courses. Fliteline Aviation Academy has tied up with Reputed Agriculture University to train rural women in the field of Agri drone operation and maintenance.

Le Loroux Bottereau, France, January 6th, 2026: ALSIM has announced that Mid-East Academy for Aviation Sciences has added an AL250 simulator to its training fleet. This addition reinforces the academy’s reputation as a leader in aviation training in the Middle East, offering students access to advanced flight simulation technology. The AL250 simulator addresses the initial phase of training needs (PPL, CPL, IR/ME) and is a SEP/MEP reconfigurable simulator certified as an EASA FNPT II. In addition, it offers both classic and glass cockpits for each flight model at the simple flick of a switch. This device has been extremely well received since its creation, and more than 100 units have been installed and are operating successfully worldwide. “As we have been offering our pilot students very high-quality training, and to benefit from the most advanced training technology as they prepare for their future careers, we have selected the AL250 simulator from ALSIM Flight Training Solutions because of its high quality and stable functionality, the fact that it matches any other product on the market and being a fully capable training simulator for PPL, CPL & IR/ME, will eliminate the need for multiple devices at our Academy. We have been ALSIM customers for over 24 years, they are experts in flight training solutions, plus their extensive experience in flight simulation perfectly aligns with our goals and plans.” explains Mohammad ABUSEINI, FSTD Manager at Mid-East Academy. Leonardo Rodrigues, Sales Manager at ALSIM, adds: “Mid-East first chose an ALSIM simulator back in 2001, and we’re truly grateful that they continue to place their trust in us with this new acquisition. Their commitment to providing pilots with the latest technology reflects a shared dedication to quality and longevity, ensuring their simulators remain reliable and ready for continued certification.”

Muharraq, Bahrain, 24 December 2025: The senior delegation from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University led by President P. Barry Butler, Ph.D., and Dr. John R. Watret, chancellor of the Worldwide Campus visited the Gulf Aviation Academy (GAA), the training arm of Gulf Air Group (GFG).The delegation explored the academy’s facilities and reviewed progress on joint initiatives,including the upcoming Aviation English Course for Commercial Pilots, a pioneering initiative that integrates Aviation English directly into the airline’s pilot standardization framework. The visit follows a commercial agreement signed between GAA and Embry-Riddle, the global leader in aviation and aerospace higher education, which established a framework for advancing aviation education, applied research, and professional development across Bahrain and the wider Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Gulf Air Chief Operations Officer and Accountable Manager of GAA, Captain Qassim AlBastaki, said,“Gulf Aviation Academy remains committed to developing world-class aviation professionals through advanced training and global collaborations. The partnership between GAA and Embry-Riddle reflects our investment in skill development and Aviation English language proficiency, aligned with aviation international standards.” He added, “The upcoming Aviation English Course for Commercial Pilots, developed with Embry-Riddle, sets a new benchmark in aviation communication training. We look forward to expanding this collaboration to offer additional learning pathways, including degree progression and professional certifications, that will support the growth and preparedness of aviation talent in Bahrain and the region.” President Butler described Aviation English proficiency as a critical component of airline operational safety. He said: “In collaboration with Gulf Aviation Academy and Gulf Air, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is integrating Aviation English into the airline’s pilot standardization framework. This partnership brings together the university’s academic and Aviation English training expertise with Gulf Air’s operational experience to create a comprehensive model that enhances safety, supports the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) best-practice recommendations, and can serve as an example for airlines across the MENA region and beyond.” The collaboration between GAA and Embry-Riddle continues to play a key role in shaping a future-ready aviation workforce. Combining GAA’s advanced training capabilities with Embry-Riddle’s global academic strength, the partnership supports the development of aviation professionals equipped to meet evolving industry demands across Bahrain and the wider MENA region.

Houston, Texas , 17 December 2025: CPaT Global, the provider of distance learning for the airline and aviation industry, has announced their association with Slovakia based AirExplore. CPaT will be providing AirExplore with their all-new Boeing 737NG Aircraft Systems courseware, along with access to their robust General Subjects library and CPaT Invent. “CPaT is proud to partner with AirExplore as they continue to strengthen their pilot training,” said Capt. Greg Darrow, Vice President of Sales. “By incorporating our new Boeing 737NG Aircraft Systems course, AirExplore’s crews will benefit from the latest systems content, paired with highly flexible tools to best support their CBTA training program.” “We are continually enhancing our pilot training standards in alignment with our long-term growth strategy,” said Peter Reisel, Crew Training Manager at AirExplore. “Partnering with CPaT enables us to provide modern, flexible, and highly effective training tools for our crews. We are particularly pleased that CPaT’s courseware supports and aligns with AirExplore’s ongoing CBTA implementation, further strengthening our training capability and supporting the safe and reliable operations our airline is known for.”