The initiative offers comprehensive aviation training aligned with Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) regulations and the airline’s global operational standards.

The programme has been developed in collaboration with authorised Flight Training Organisations, Skynex Aero and Dunes Aviation Academy. It combines aviation education, flight training, and airline-focused readiness to prepare aspiring pilots for careers in commercial aviation.

India’s aviation sector is expanding rapidly, driving demand for skilled pilots and high-quality training infrastructure. Indian airlines have orders for around 1,700 aircraft, and the country’s commercial fleet is expected to nearly triple by 2035. Currently, India has approximately 12,000 to 15,000 commercial pilots, but by 2035, an estimated 35,000 pilots will be required. Additionally, the region will need around 45,000 new pilots over the next two decades, presenting significant opportunities for aspiring aviation professionals.

Belson Coutinho, Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of Akasa Air, said, “India’s aviation industry is entering a phase of sustained long-term growth, and building a future-ready workforce will be critical to supporting this expansion responsibly. At Akasa Air, we have always believed that our people will be the cornerstone of our success. The Akasa SkyCadet Programme reflects our commitment to investing in talent from the grassroots level and creating structured pathways for aspiring pilots to build meaningful careers in aviation. Beyond technical capability, the programme is designed to instil a strong culture of safety, operational excellence, discipline, and service orientation – the values that define Akasa Air. As we continue to scale our operations, we are focused on nurturing skilled professionals who can grow with us and contribute to the future of Indian aviation.”

The SkyCadet programme consists of three phases. The first, Ground School, provides a theoretical curriculum covering air regulations, navigation, meteorology, aircraft technical knowledge, and human performance to prepare cadets for DGCA examinations and flight training.

The second phase involves Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) Flight Training, which includes structured dual and solo flying focusing on operational proficiency through navigation, instrument, and cross-country flying in accordance with DGCA and International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.

The third phase is Type Rating on the Boeing 737 MAX, featuring advanced simulator and aircraft systems training to prepare cadets for commercial operations on Akasa Air’s Boeing 737 MAX fleet.

The initiative reflects Akasa Air’s focus on fostering a progressive and inclusive workplace, providing aspiring pilots the opportunity to pursue careers with one of the world’s fastest-growing airlines. While the SkyCadet programme targets freshers, the airline will continue to recruit Commercial Pilot Licence holders and Boeing 737 type-rated pilots to meet immediate staffing needs as it expands its fleet and operations.