Tata-Owned Air India Express to Double Pilot Count in Next Year to Meet Fleet Expansion Plans

Tata-owned Air India Express plans to double its pilot count in the next year to 900 to support its fleet expansion plans. The airline is set to induct 50 new aircraft over the next 15 months, taking its total fleet size to 170 narrow-body aircraft.

The airline's managing director, Aloke Singh, said that the new aircraft will be used to expand the airline's domestic footprint and roll out new flight networks. He also said that the airline is aiming to grow to a fleet of about 170 narrow-body aircraft over the next five years, with a network spanning the domestic India and short-haul international markets.

Air India Express is a subsidiary of Air India and is in the process of merging with low-cost domestic carrier AirAsia India. The two airlines unveiled their new brand identity last week. The merger is expected to be completed by March next year and will result in the creation of a single low-cost airline subsidiary of Air India.

Air India Express's Ambitious Growth Plans

Tata-owned Air India Express is embarking on a significant expansion journey. The airline is planning to double its current pilot count by inducting 350 new pilots within the next year. This strategic move reflects the company's commitment to enhancing its services and network.

From 400 to 900 Pilots

An Ambitious Leap Currently, Air India Express boasts a workforce of 400 pilots. However, with the recruitment of 350 new pilots in the pipeline, the airline's pilot roster is set to soar, possibly reaching up to 900 pilots. This substantial increase in pilot strength aligns with the carrier's vision for future growth.

Fleet Expansion Driving Pilot Recruitment

New aircraft are scheduled to become part of the Air India Express fleet, fueling the demand for additional pilots. With the arrival of these aircraft, the airline is preparing to meet its expansion objectives by ensuring it has an adequate pilot team to operate the new planes effectively.

Air India Express's Vision for Expansion

Air India Express is not only focusing on augmenting its pilot count but also has more extensive growth plans. In the next 15 months, the airline aims to add 50 aircraft to its fleet, a move that will significantly increase its capacity and domestic footprint.

A Fleet of 170 Aircraft in 5 Years

As part of its long-term strategy, Air India Express aspires to grow its fleet to approximately 170 narrow-body aircraft over the next five years. This expansion is designed to cater to both the domestic Indian market and short-haul international routes.

Air India's Chief, Campbell Wilson, has announced an aggressive induction plan. The airline is set to welcome one new aircraft every six days, ensuring a swift and efficient expansion process.

Air India Express's Merger and Brand Evolution

Additionally, Air India Express, a subsidiary of Air India, is in the final stages of merging with low-cost domestic carrier AirAsia India. This consolidation aims to streamline operations and expand the airline's presence in the Indian aviation market. Recently, the company introduced its new brand identity, signaling a fresh beginning.

Transforming the Aviation Landscape

The impending merger and consolidation of Tata-owned airlines, including Air India and Air India Express, are poised to have a transformative impact on India's aviation sector. This strategic realignment is expected to be completed by March of the following year, establishing the merged entity as a dominant low-cost airline subsidiary of the full-service airline, Air India.

Relevant and Latest Facts about Air India Express :

• Air India Express is a subsidiary of Air India, which is owned by the Tata Group.

• Air India Express is in the process of merging with low-cost domestic carrier AirAsia India.

• The airline plans to double its pilot count in the next year to 900 to support its fleet expansion plans.

• Air India Express is set to induct 50 new aircraft over the next 15 months, taking its total fleet size to 170 narrow-body aircraft.

• The airline plans to expand its domestic footprint and roll out new flight networks.

• The merger with AirAsia India is expected to be completed by March next year.