NATS Aerospace Eyes ₹100-Crore Flight Training Academy in Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh is poised to strengthen its footprint in India's rapidly expanding aviation sector, with Delhi-based NATS Aerospace Private Limited expressing interest in setting up a Flight Training Organisation (FTO) in the state. The proposed project, involving an investment of around ₹100 crore over the next five years, is expected to enhance pilot training infrastructure, create skilled employment and support the country's growing demand for qualified commercial pilots.

The proposal was discussed on Thursday during a meeting between Investments and Infrastructure Minister BC Janardhan Reddy and Athiraj Singh Chawla, a representative of NATS Aerospace, at the State Secretariat. The discussions focused on developing world-class aviation training facilities capable of meeting both DGCA and international standards.

The company has identified Nagarjunasagar Airport and Kurnool Airport as potential locations for the training academy and is expected to submit a detailed project proposal to the state government shortly.

According to the company, the project will be implemented in phases with an investment of approximately ₹100 crore, generating nearly 100 direct and indirect employment opportunities. Operations are proposed to begin with six trainer aircraft, with plans to expand the fleet to 20 aircraft within five years.

The academy aims to provide advanced pilot training using modern aviation infrastructure, making professional flight training more accessible to aspiring pilots from Andhra Pradesh and neighbouring states. The project aligns with India's rapidly growing aviation industry, where airlines have placed record aircraft orders and demand for trained pilots continues to rise. In recent years, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has also introduced reforms to strengthen Flying Training Organisations, improve training quality and expand the country's pilot training capacity.

Welcoming the proposal, BC Janardhan Reddy said investments in aviation training would not only create employment but also help develop a highly skilled workforce for one of the country's fastest-growing sectors. He noted that establishing a modern flight training centre would position Andhra Pradesh as an emerging destination for aviation education and skill development.

The minister reiterated that the state government remains committed to supporting investment proposals that generate employment and boost economic growth. He assured the company of necessary approvals, infrastructure support and administrative assistance once the detailed project report is submitted.

With the state actively promoting investments in high-growth sectors and strengthening aviation-related infrastructure, officials believe the proposed Flight Training Organisation could become a significant addition to Andhra Pradesh's aviation ecosystem, opening new career opportunities for youth while reinforcing the state's ambitions of becoming a regional hub for aviation training.