Maharashtra Plans 8 New Flying Schools Across 6 Airports

Maharashtra is set to have eight new flying schools across the state, with the Maharashtra Airport Development Company Ltd (MADC) planning to establish new flying training organisations (FTOs) at six airports. This initiative aims to expand pilot training infrastructure across the state, raising the total number of operational flying schools to 13.

The new flying schools will be set up at Dharashiv, Yavatmal, Baramati, Dhule, Karad, and Latur airports. Baramati will have three FTOs, while Dhule, Karad, and Latur will each have two. Dharashiv and Yavatmal will have two FTOs each, introducing new capacity to existing hubs and establishing initial flying schools at unserved regional airstrips.

MADC has floated an e-tender seeking private operators to design, build, operate, maintain, and transfer the new training bases. The selected bidders will receive limited lease rights over designated land parcels, hangars, aprons, and paved areas. The selection will be based on the highest concession fee offered per flying hour, with a mandatory reserve price floor set at Rs 825 per flying hour per aircraft.

Operators will have to commit to a minimum guaranteed flying hours fee threshold of 3,000 flying hours per annum per airport. They will also pay monthly land lease charges of Rs 331 per sq.m. for paved areas and Rs 275 per sq.m. for unpaved areas across all six airports. A fixed monthly infrastructure and service update charge of Rs 10 lakh per airport will also apply.

The lease term will be valid for five years and will be extendable by an additional five years based on performance and at the discretion of MADC. Bidders must have a minimum of three airworthy aircraft per bidded airport to be eligible, and must commit to acquiring certified airworthy aircraft within six months if they do not currently have any.

The minimum positive net worth of the bidder must be over Rs 10 crore for the preceding three financial years. The tender emphasizes strict compliance with Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) regulations, and operators will be required to prevent under-reporting or safety shortcuts.

The expansion of flying schools in Maharashtra is expected to provide a major boost to the state's aviation sector. With the addition of eight new flying schools, the total number of operational flying schools in the state will increase to 13, providing more opportunities for pilot training and development.

The establishment of new flying schools will also create new job opportunities and stimulate economic growth in the regions where they are located. The initiative is part of the state government's efforts to promote the development of the aviation sector and provide world-class infrastructure for pilot training.

In conclusion, the plan to establish eight new flying schools across Maharashtra is a significant development for the state's aviation sector. With the emphasis on strict compliance with DGCA regulations and the commitment to providing high-quality infrastructure, the new flying schools are expected to provide a major boost to pilot training and development in the state.

The expansion of flying schools will also have a positive impact on the state's economy, creating new job opportunities and stimulating economic growth. As the aviation sector continues to grow and develop, the establishment of new flying schools will play a crucial role in providing the necessary infrastructure and training for pilots.

Overall, the plan to establish eight new flying schools in Maharashtra is a positive development for the state's aviation sector, and is expected to have a significant impact on the growth and development of the sector in the years to come.