05 Jan 2025
#1 Jan 2025: India Aviation Newsletter
Air India Expands Training Capabilities with 34 New Trainer Aircraft
Air India has taken a strategic step towards strengthening its pilot training infrastructure under the ambitious Vihaan.AI transformation program. The airline has placed an order for 34 trainer aircraft, including 31 single-engine models from Piper Aircraft and 3 twin-engine models from Diamond Aircraft. These additions will support the launch of Air India’s in-house Flying Training Organisation (FTO) at Amravati, Maharashtra. Subject to regulatory approvals, the FTO is slated to begin operations in the latter half of 2025.
Air India's Director of Aviation Academy, Sunil Bhaskaran, highlighted that this initiative aligns with the airline’s goal of creating a robust, self-reliant ecosystem for pilot training. This will benefit not only Air India but the broader Indian aviation sector. The move also supports the government’s vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat, contributing to India’s position as a rapidly growing global aviation market.
IndiGo Expands Codeshare Connections to the United States
In a significant boost to international connectivity, IndiGo has introduced four new codeshare connections to Houston (IAH), Atlanta (ATL), Miami (MIA), and Los Angeles (LAX) via Istanbul in partnership with Turkish Airlines. This expansion, effective December 18, 2024, brings IndiGo’s total US connections to nine, offering enhanced travel options for business travellers, students, tourists, and VFR (visiting friends and relatives).
With these additions, IndiGo now provides codeshare connectivity to 43 destinations through its partnership with Turkish Airlines, further solidifying its role as a key player in global aviation. IndiGo’s Head of Global Sales, Vinay Malhotra, expressed delight in enhancing travel options for customers and emphasized the importance of these routes for various travel segments.
Acumen’s Take
On Air India’s FTO Expansion
Air India’s investment in building South Asia’s largest FTO is a forward-thinking move that reflects the growing demand for skilled pilots in one of the fastest-expanding aviation markets globally. This initiative not only addresses pilot shortages but also establishes a benchmark for self-reliance and long-term sustainability in India’s aviation training ecosystem.
Acumen Aviation sees this development as a pivotal opportunity for the industry to leverage digital transformation in pilot training. By integrating data-driven tools and advanced simulation technologies, FTOs can optimise training efficiency and enhance safety outcomes.
On IndiGo’s Codeshare Expansion
IndiGo’s strategic codeshare partnerships underscore the importance of collaboration in today’s interconnected aviation landscape. With nine US destinations now accessible via Istanbul, IndiGo is positioning itself as a strong competitor in long-haul travel while providing seamless travel options to key markets for students, business travellers, and leisure tourists.
Acumen believes this expansion is a testament to IndiGo’s agility in adapting to market needs and customer preferences. The airline’s ability to diversify its routes and strengthen partnerships reflects the growing importance of codeshare agreements in achieving scalability and operational efficiency.
Acumen Aviation © 5 January 2025 All Rights Reserved
