French aviation training provider Simaero is set to make a significant impact on India’s aviation sector with a planned $200 million investment aimed at expanding its pilot training infrastructure. The investment will be strategically allocated to develop a hub-and-spoke model for pilot training centres across the country, responding to the burgeoning demand for commercial pilots in one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets.
The initial phase of the investment will see the establishment of a state-of-the-art simulator training facility located near Delhi International Airport. This premier centre, which is slated to be operational by the end of the year, will feature eight advanced simulators and is expected to cost approximately $100 million. Spanning 4,500 square metres, the facility will cater to the pressing need for high-quality pilot training in India, reflecting the country’s rapid expansion in air travel. Following the completion of the Delhi facility, Simaero plans to channel an additional $100 million into the creation of two satellite training centres. These smaller hubs will be strategically positioned in key cities such as Mumbai, Bangalore, and Kolkata. Each of these centres will be equipped with three to four full-fledged simulators, reinforcing the hub-and-spoke model designed to bring advanced training infrastructure closer to the aviation industry’s key players.
According to the General Manager for India at Simaero, the decision to invest in India was driven by the country’s substantial growth in aviation and the escalating need for comprehensive pilot training solutions. The first satellite training centres are expected to commence planning by 2026, with each facility requiring an estimated $50 million investment. This substantial investment underscores Simaero’s commitment to enhancing pilot training capabilities in India, aligning with the country’s ambitions to bolster its domestic aviation sector. The initiative also reflects a broader trend of international companies recognising India’s potential as a key player in the global aviation industry.
The significant financial outlay and the focus on advanced simulation technology highlight Simaero’s strategy to provide cutting-edge training solutions that address the evolving needs of the aviation sector, ensuring a steady pipeline of skilled pilots to support India’s aviation growth trajectory.
