Air India SATS Airport Services Private Limited (AISATS) has signed a formal agreement with the Government of Odisha to offer skill development training in the aviation sector for the state's youth. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Directorate of Skill Development and Employment (DSDE), part of the Skill Development and Technical Education Department, seeks to improve aviation training prospects for aspiring professionals from Odisha.
The collaboration comes at a crucial time, with passenger capacity at major Indian airports projected to more than double from 192 million to 420 million in the next four years. Additionally, the fleet size of Indian carriers is expected to nearly triple from 700 to 2,000 aircraft, highlighting the urgent need for skilled aviation professionals.
As part of this agreement, AISATS will conduct an intensive 30-day training program for candidates from Odisha at its Training Academy in Hyderabad. This program aims to provide participants with the skills needed for positions in ramp handling and customer service within airport operations. To be eligible for the program, candidates must meet certain educational requirements to qualify for admission to the AISATS Training Academy and to undertake training for these specialized roles.
Mr. Sanjay Gupta, CEO of AISATS, stated, “This partnership with the Government of Odisha marks a significant aspect in our ongoing commitment to fostering indigenous talent and contributing to the advancement of India’s aviation sector. By providing access to our state-of-the-art training academy in Hyderabad and offering immediate employment opportunities, we aim to cultivate a highly skilled workforce that will be instrumental in shaping the future of airport operations across India. With the projected growth in the aviation sector, which has increased the demand for ground handlers to ensure efficient and safe airport operations, our training institute will play a pivotal role. It will nurture a proficient, knowledgeable, and sustainable talent pipeline, exemplifying a more industry-driven approach to India’s skill development initiatives.”
Upon successful completion of the comprehensive training program, candidates will be awarded a 'Certificate in Ground Handling and Airport Operations' and subsequently placed at one of AISATS’ six operational stations throughout India. This initiative not only provides a structured pathway for aviation enthusiasts to enter the industry but also ensures a consistent supply of qualified professionals to meet the escalating demands of India’s rapidly expanding aviation sector.
This strategic partnership represents a forward-thinking approach to cultivating Indian talent in the aviation sector, closely aligning with the goals of the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY). By providing specialized training for essential roles such as ramp agents, baggage handlers, customer service agents, and load control agents, AISATS aims to address skill gaps in India and prepare a workforce that meets the specific needs of the aviation industry.
