(a) whether there is any shortage of airline pilots for commercial airlines in the country;
(b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor and the steps taken by the Government to fill the vacancies; and
(c) whether there are any welfare schemes run by the
Government specifically for commercial airline pilots and if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor?
Minister of State in the Ministry of CIVIL AVIATION
(Shri Jayant Sinha)
(a) & (b) Yes, Madam. There is shortage of type rated commanders in the country due to growth in aviation industry and induction of new aircraft in the fleet of the airlines. However, sufficient numbers of Indian co - pilots are available and employed with the airlines. These co - pilots do not possess sufficient training and experience as required to become commander on that type. To cover the shortage of type rated pilots, validation of foreign pilots is done as per rule 45 of Aircraft Rules, 1937. Indian pilots which are inducted by airlines and are eligible to become Pilot in Command (PIC) as per the policy of airlines are being trained by them to phase out Expat pilots. As a follow up, cases of Foreign Aircrew Temporary Authorization(FATA) Pilots are processed on the basis of information furnished by each airline and only after security clearance from MHA. The Government has restricted issue of FATA up to 31st December, 2018.;
(c) No such welfare schemes are run by the Government.