Canada's Winnipeg Aviation planning to start aviation academy in Maharashtra

New Delhi: Canada-based Winnipeg Aviation (WAI) has completed feasibility studies for the setting up of a pilot training academy in the country's western state of Maharashtra by the end of the year. According to WAI, the project, which involves an investment of $10-15 million (Rs 40-60 crore), would be the first in the country to operate out of a dedicated greenfield airport.

WAI is also looking at an annual intake of 40 students till the end of the project's first phase.

According to WAI officials, the company shall invest $3-4 million in the first phase towards developing infrastructure such as hangers, airstrip and aprons at the airport in order to start flight training operations. They said that a feasibility study has been completed and currently they were awaiting clearances from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in order to start the facility.

The academy has already trained 55 Indian students at its Canadian facility.

Officials said that WAI would initially train pilots for the private jet segment at its Indian facility. It would also provide students the option to undertake avionics and engineering courses. Implementation of subsequent phases will see the institute provide training for helicopters. Apart from facilities such as simulators for training, the institute will also start maintenance and repair services for small fixed wing aircraft.

 According to government estimates, the Indian aviation industry will need about 2,000 fresh pilots by 2010.

In its new civil aviation policy the government has allowed up to 100 per cent foreign direct investment for flying training institutes, technical training institutions and helicopter services in the aviation sector.