Air India Flight Training Center, a subsidiary of Tata Group, has taken a major step in aviation training by ordering 93 Archer DX trainer aircraft from Piper Aircraft. Out of these, 31 are confirmed for delivery in 2025, while 62 are planned as optional orders for the 2026-2027 period. The first deliveries are scheduled for Q1 2025.
Aspiring to Be South Asia’s Largest Training Center
This significant purchase supports Air India’s new flight training facility in Amravati, Maharashtra, which aims to become South Asia’s largest aviation training center. The project also provides Piper Aircraft with a robust entry into the Asian market.
Air India CEO Campbell Wilson emphasized the strategic importance of the Archer DX order for pilot training:
“This investment enhances our pilot training capabilities and allows hundreds of students to receive training through our programs.”
Piper Aircraft President and CEO John Calcagno highlighted that this partnership strengthens Piper’s reliability in aviation training and underlined the Archer DX’s role in developing future pilots.
Archer DX: The Ideal Trainer Aircraft
The Archer DX is equipped with a Continental CD-155 diesel engine, offering exceptional fuel efficiency. The aircraft consumes just 5.8 gallons per hour while maintaining a cruise speed of 114 KTAS.
Technical Specifications:
- Cruise Speed: 128 knots at 75% power
- Range: 522 nautical miles
- Service Ceiling: 14,100 feet
- Takeoff Distance: 1,608 feet
- Landing Distance (50 ft obstacle): 1,400 feet
- Engine: Lycoming IO-360-B4A (180 HP)
With its standard G1000 avionics and robust design, the Archer DX is tailored to meet the demands of intensive flight training operations.
Air India Aviation Academy
Air India’s Aviation Academy is establishing a 600,000-square-foot training complex in Gurugram, aiming to become South Asia’s largest aviation training facility. The academy plans to train 50,000 aviation professionals annually across various domains, including pilots, cabin crew, engineering staff, and ground services.
Additionally, a new flight school in Amravati, Maharashtra, is being constructed with the goal of graduating 180 pilots each year.
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