Following the initiative to rank flying training organizations (FTOs), India is now considering ranking aircraft maintenance engineering (AME) institutes. This move by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) aims to help students make informed decisions when choosing an AME program. The preparatory work for ranking AME institutes has already commenced.
The DGCA's decision to rank FTOs, which is set to begin on October 1st, was spearheaded by DG Faiz Ahmed Kidwai. FTOs will be assessed based on key parameters such as safety record and the time taken to complete 200 hours of flying, a requirement for obtaining a commercial pilot license (CPL). This ranking system is expected to encourage flying schools to improve their performance to attract more students.
A similar ranking system for AME institutes is anticipated to focus on the quality of training and the support provided to students. The FTO ranking system has already motivated schools to expedite DGCA clearances to reduce training delays. The government hopes that ranking AME institutes will have a similarly positive impact, enhancing training quality for students and promoting self-reliance in the aviation sector.
The DGCA believes that a ranking system will ensure training quality and standardization, enhance transparency and accountability, provide guidance for student pilots, and help identify high-performing FTOs for expansion or international collaboration, while also identifying underperforming ones for closer monitoring or corrective action. FTO rankings will be published bi-annually, preferably on October 1st and April 1st of each year. FTOs scoring 85% and above will be ranked A++; 70-84.99% as A+; 50%-69.99% A and below 50% as B. Category 'B' FTOs will receive a notice from DGCA for self-analysis towards improvement of their performance.
The regulator emphasizes that this ranking system holds FTOs accountable for maintaining regulatory compliance and operational standards, assisting aspiring pilots and their families in identifying credible FTOs based on quality, safety, and training outcomes.
In related news, Air India is establishing an aircraft maintenance training institute in Bengaluru, expected to be operational by mid-2026. This institute will offer a four-year AME program certified by the DGCA, combining classroom learning with practical training at Air India's new MRO facility. The initiative aims to create a skilled workforce to support the airline's fleet expansion. Air India has partnered with Bengaluru Airport City Limited (BACL) to develop an 86,000 sq ft campus at Bengaluru Airport City, featuring modern classrooms, laboratories, and qualified instructors.
Air India also plans to implement a Cadet AME program, partnering with institutions in Bengaluru and Hyderabad to support its AME requirements. Additionally, Air India will encourage AME students to pursue bachelor's degrees through university partnerships to enhance their career opportunities.
