New Delhi, Aug. 1 -- In a major push to strengthen domestic pilot training capacity and reduce reliance on foreign flying schools, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) has successfully completed the tender process for 11 new Flying Training Organisation (FTO) slots at seven of its airports under the latest e-tender round launched in February 2026.

The technical bids were opened on 30 April 2026 and financial bids on 22 May 2026. The entire process has been successful for all sites, AAI documents state.

India's civil aviation sector is set for rapid expansion with the Ministry of Civil Aviation estimating a requirement of over 30,000 to 31,800 additional pilots over the next decade. Indian carriers are expected to induct around 500 more...