Lucknow, June 11 -- Kushinagar International Airport, which has seen limited commercial activity recently, is poised for a transformation with a proposed Flight Training Organisation (FTO) on its premises, positioning the airport as an emerging hub for pilot training in northern India. If approved, this academy would mark a pivotal moment for Kushinagar, shifting its role from an underutilised facility to a centre for aviation skill development. This development is particularly significant given that scheduled commercial flights from Kushinagar have been largely suspended since November 2023, when SpiceJet ceased operations. While the airport was originally developed to support the Buddhist circuit and improve international connectivity, passenger traffic consistently lagged behind projections. An Indian aviation training company proposed the new move in collaboration with a Norwegian partner. Airport authorities have agreed in principle to allot around 5,000 square metres of land within the airport campus for the training infrastructure development. The academy will utilise the airport's 3.2-kilometre-long runway for flight training activities. According to airport officials, the tender process for the project is expected to begin shortly. Kushinagar Airport director Pranesh Rai noted, "The proposal was made with the help of a Norwegian partner, which was forwarded to the AAI in Delhi. They asked some questions regarding land availability, required facilities and the projected benefits for the airport. We have provided those answers and are expecting a decision in the days to come." Sources indicate that the flying school plans to station five small training aircraft at the airport. The curriculum will integrate classroom instruction, simulator sessions and live flight operations. Advanced simulators will replicate cockpit environments, allowing trainees to master aircraft systems, navigation and emergency procedures in a controlled setting before advancing to real aircraft. Officials highlight Kushinagar Airport's long runway, modern navigation facilities and relatively uncongested airspace as key advantages over major metropolitan airports. This upgrade will provide trainees with valuable exposure to diverse weather scenarios, which is vital for professional aviation development. Director of Civil Aviation Nikhil Tikaram Funde stated, "The state government handed over the airport to the AAI in 2021, but we remain committed to supporting projects that train skilled manpower and generate job opportunities."...