Air India Plans New Aircraft Maintenance Training Center in Bengaluru
Air India Launches New Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Training Program to Boost Aviation Skills in India
BENGALURU – Air India, owned by Tata Group, is set to enhance India’s aviation infrastructure by launching a new Basic Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) Training Organization. This initiative aims to provide a comprehensive four-year Aircraft Maintenance Engineering program certified by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The program will play a crucial role in supporting Air India’s expansion plans by increasing the availability of skilled maintenance engineers in the country.
Air India AME Institute: A Game Changer for Aviation Training
In collaboration with Bengaluru Airport City Limited (BLR), Air India is constructing a state-of-the-art 86,000-square-foot training facility. Slated to open in mid-2026, the campus will feature modern learning spaces, specialized laboratories, and experienced instructors. This initiative is designed to meet the growing demands of the aviation industry while ensuring high standards of maintenance engineering education.
Program Structure and Hands-On Experience
The AME program consists of two years of academic training followed by two years of hands-on experience at Air India’s upcoming 12-bay Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in Bengaluru, which is expected to commence operations in early 2026. This structure ensures that graduates are well-prepared to meet industry standards and Air India’s technical requirements through practical training and real-world experience.
- Key Features of the Program:
- Comprehensive four-year curriculum
- Collaboration with local institutions in Bengaluru and Hyderabad for interim Cadet AME programs
- Opportunities for concurrent bachelor’s degrees
Sunil Bhaskaran, Director of Aviation Academy at Air India, emphasized the importance of this initiative in creating a specialized pipeline of engineers equipped to handle the airline’s expanding maintenance needs.
Strategic Location and Industry Exposure
The training facility’s proximity to Kempegowda International Airport provides cadets with invaluable exposure to aviation operations, enhancing their practical industry experience. Rao Munukutla, Executive Director & CEO of BACL, highlighted the facility’s significance, stating it aligns with the airport’s vision of promoting innovation and collaboration through education and skill development.
Part of Air India’s Comprehensive Transformation Strategy
This training initiative is part of Air India’s broader Vihaan.AI transformation strategy, which includes the acquisition of over 500 new aircraft currently being delivered. The airline has invested USD 400 million in retrofitting existing aircraft interiors and has initiated line maintenance operations across its airline group.
The recent commencement of construction on a large-scale MRO facility in Bengaluru further underscores Air India’s commitment to enhancing its independent maintenance capabilities, creating new employment opportunities in the aviation sector.
Commitment to Building a Sustainable Aviation Ecosystem
The new AME Training Organization aims to equip maintenance engineers with specialized skills tailored to Air India’s evolving fleet requirements. This investment in technical education and infrastructure signifies Air India’s dedication to fostering a sustainable aviation ecosystem within India.
For more details on Air India’s initiatives and the future of aviation training in India, explore our related articles or share your thoughts in the comments below.
