Keshod: To train more pilots for the expanding aviation sector, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) has invited bids for setting up Flying Training Organizations (FTOs) at Keshod Airport in Gujarat. The initiative is part of the Ministry of Civil Aviation’s broader push to expand domestic pilot training capacity by reducing dependence on foreign flying schools.

DBOMT Model for 25-Year Lease

According to the Request for Proposal (RFP) issued by AAI, the project will be implemented on a Design, Build, Operate, Maintain and Transfer (DBOMT) basis. The selected bidder will be responsible for developing and operating the training infrastructure for a 25-year concession period, after which the entire facility will be handed back to AAI without any cost.

AAI has earmarked two plots measuring about 100 m × 50 m each at Keshod Airport for the project. These sites will be used exclusively for running Flying Training Organizations, including aircraft parking, maintenance, and training operations.

Infrastructure and Operational Conditions

The operator will have to construct all required facilities such as hangars, aprons, classrooms, briefing rooms, and flight operation areas, strictly as per the norms of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

To ensure active use of the facility, the concessionaire must complete at least 3,000 flying hours in one accounting year out of every three consecutive years. This condition has been included to maintain regular training activity at the airport.

Boost to Regional Aviation Training

As per AAI, the plan to establish FTOs at Keshod Airport along with six other airports — namely Dholera Airport, Kadapa Airport, Hubballi Airport, Tuticorin Airport, Kishangarh Airport, and Solapur Airport — is expected to create new opportunities for pilot training in western India and make aviation education more accessible within the country.

Interested firms, companies, and registered societies meeting the technical and financial criteria can submit bids through the government’s CPP e-tender portal. DeshGujarat