Air Kerala Seeks Pilots Ahead of 2025 Launch

Air Kerala Hiring Pilots: Join the New Regional Carrier’s Team

Cochin-based Air Kerala is on the lookout for skilled pilots, including Captains and First Officers, to operate its ATR 72-600 aircraft. Following the issuance of its No Objection Certificate (NOC) by the Ministry of Civil Aviation of India in July 2024, the airline is gearing up for a significant launch. This recruitment drive marks a crucial step in Air Kerala’s journey toward becoming a key player in regional aviation.

In a recent LinkedIn announcement, Air Kerala expressed its enthusiasm, stating, "Air Kerala is Ready for Takeoff! We’re now boarding ATR 72-600 Pilots to soar into aviation history!" The airline is focused on building its core team, starting with essential positions like pilots. If you’re interested in joining this emerging airline, send your CV to [email protected].

Requirements for Pilots at Air Kerala

Air Kerala has set clear eligibility criteria for both Captains and First Officers to ensure operational safety and compliance with aviation standards.

Captains

• Experience: A minimum of 3,000 hours of total flight time, with at least 500 hours as Pilot-in-Command (PIC) on ATR-72-600.
• Currency: Valid Instrument Rating and Proficiency Check (IR-PPC) with recent ATR-72-600 flight activity.
• Licenses: A valid Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) and Flight Radio Telephone Operator’s License (FRTO), along with a Class 1 Medical Assessment.
• Type Rating: ATR-72-600 type rating is required.
• Language Proficiency: Fluency in English with a minimum ICAO English Language Proficiency (ELP) Level 4.
• Record: Must have no accidents, incidents, or Breath Analyzer (BA) violations in the past three years.

First Officers

• Experience: At least 600 hours total flight time, including a minimum of 100 hours as First Officer on ATR-72-600.
• Currency: Current IR-PPC with recent ATR-72-600 flight activity.
• Licenses: A valid Commercial Pilot License (CPL) and FRTO, along with a Class 1 Medical Assessment.
• Type Rating: ATR-72-600 type rating is necessary.
• Language Proficiency: Fluency in English with a minimum ICAO ELP Level 4.
• Record: No accidents, incidents, or BA violations in the past three years.

Expected Launch in Q2 2025

Air Kerala, under the umbrella of Zetfly Aviation, aims to commence domestic flights from Kochi to smaller cities in the second quarter of 2025. The airline is also preparing for international operations to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, anticipated to begin in 2028.

CEO Harish Kutty emphasizes the airline’s significance to the global Malayalee community, marking it as a long-held aspiration. The airline is currently in the pre-application phase for its Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) and plans to finalize this process by April 2025, despite the challenges involved.

To support its operations, Air Kerala is negotiating the dry lease of three ATR 72-600 aircraft for delivery in mid-2025. With a focus on affordability and accessibility, the airline aims to cater to expatriate Malayalees. Additionally, Air Kerala plans to expand its fleet with narrowbody aircraft like Boeing 737s or Airbus A320s to meet the 20-aircraft requirement for international flights by 2028.

For more information on Air Kerala’s journey and updates, keep an eye on their official announcements and consider following their progress as they prepare for a successful launch.

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