IndiGo Set to Recruit Trainee Pilots from IGRUA Starting 2018: A Game-Changer in the Aviation Sector

The government-run flying training institute Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Uran Akademi (IGRUA), located in Amethi district of Uttar Pradesh, is witnessing a historic shift as the private budget airline IndiGo is set to hire trainee pilots from this institution starting 2018. This marks a significant departure from the traditional practice of hiring pilots from IGRUA for state-run air carriers like Air India.

Traditions and the Shift

Traditionally, pilots trained at IGRUA, an autonomous body under the Civil Aviation Ministry, have found employment predominantly at state-run carriers such as Air India. The shift towards IndiGo represents a new opportunity for aspiring pilots trained at IGRUA to join the ranks of one of India's leading private airlines.

Significance of the Development

The IGRUA director, Air Vice Marshal Nalin Tandon, expressed his satisfaction with this development. Mr. Tandon, who is also the Vice Chancellor of the Rajiv Gandhi National Aviation University, affirmed that it is a positive sign for the Indian aviation sector. He elaborated that 75 candidates appeared for the initial recruitment phase held on the campus at Fursatganj, Amethi.

About IGRUA

IGRUA, the sole central government-funded flying training academy in the country, currently houses around 200 students training for commercial pilots' licenses (CPL).

IndiGo's Perspective

Capt. Ashim Mittra, Senior Vice President of Flight Operations at IndiGo, emphasized the importance of this shift for the aviation industry. He highlighted the growing importance of private carriers in the industry and the potential for more such developments in the future.

Why Join IGRUA?

The announcement by IndiGo to hire pilots for their Airbus 320 fleet sets a new stage for aspiring pilots from IGRUA. Students interested in joining IGRUA can take this as a sign of the openings that lie ahead in the aviation sector. However, it is important to note that students will need to first complete their training and obtain a Letter of Intent (LOI) from IndiGo before progressing to type rating.

Conclusion

For students who aspire to become airline pilots in the near future, IGRUA offers a blended learning experience, equipping them with comprehensive skills required for a career in aviation. The prospect of potential employment with IndiGo and similar private airlines makes IGRUA an attractive choice for those aspiring to enter the industry through a different route than traditional state-run carriers.

P.S.

Aspiring pilots should remain dedicated to their studies and training. The letter of intent from IndiGo is just the beginning of a rigorous journey towards becoming a professional pilot.

HAPPY LANDING!