IndiGo Extends Service Agreement with CAE for Cadet Pilot Program

IndiGo has revealed the prolongation of its service agreement with CAE, specifically for its Cadet Pilot Programme. This extension entails an expanded collaboration between IndiGo and CAE to create a customized pilot career program, aligning with the anticipated demand for Junior First Officers (JFO) and supporting IndiGo's strategic growth initiatives. The partnership with CAE commenced in 2011, and as of December 2023, IndiGo has successfully incorporated approximately 941 Cadets into its ranks as Junior First Officers through this program.

CAE provides comprehensive pilot training solutions at its advanced training facility located in Gondia, Maharashtra. This facility operates as a fully equipped Flight Training Organization (FTO) with state-of-the-art features, including a modern glass cockpit and Diamond training aircraft. IndiGo's cadet pilots have undergone training not only at this facility in Gondia but also at various international CAE locations, including Phoenix in the USA, as well as Melbourne and Tamworth in Australia.

Captain Ashim Mittra, Senior Vice President Flight Operations, IndiGo, said, “We are delighted to further strengthen our long-standing association with CAE for our Cadet Pilot Programme. This partnership has helped us in establishing a strong backbone of well-trained cadet pilots, who are crucial for our existing needs and long-term growth plans. As India’s largest airline, we are expanding our network both within India and overseas, and this extended partnership will be key to creating a pool of skilled young pilots trained from the ground up. CAE has a demonstrated history of world-class infrastructure and curriculum that is critical for the level of excellence needed for a world-class airline culture like IndiGo’s".

Launched in 2006 coinciding with the commencement of IndiGo's commercial operations, the IndiGo Cadet Pilot Programme saw its inaugural group of 39 cadet pilots receiving training in the USA. Since its inception, the program has achieved significant success, as individuals from the initial batch have progressed to assume roles as Captains, Trainers, and even leaders within the IndiGo organization.