Air India, India’s leading global airline group, is taking a significant step towards building a robust, future-ready aviation ecosystem by setting up a Basic Maintenance Training Organization (BMTO) in Bengaluru.
The BMTO will offer an integrated 2+2 years Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) program certified by the Indian aviation regulator, Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
Air India: State-of-the-Art Training Facility
The purpose-built campus, spread over 86,000 square feet at Bengaluru Airport City, is expected to be operational by mid-2026.
The facility will feature modern classrooms, well-equipped laboratories for practical training, and a team of qualified trainers.
The BMTO will be housed close to Air India’s new 12-bay Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility in Bengaluru.
This facility will be operational in early 2026.
The program at the BMTO will include two years of in-classroom academic coursework. The program includes two years of practical on-job training at the MRO.
The aim of the BMTO is to foster a workforce of skilled professionals for aircraft maintenance and engineering operations.
Students will receive hands-on experience and training, adhering to industry standards and Air India’s specific requirements.
Air India: Interim Cadet AME Program
Till the new BMTO facility commences operations, Air India will implement a Cadet AME program with other reputable institutions across Bengaluru and Hyderabad to ensure continuity in its commitment towards AME education and workforce development as well as to support its requirements for aircraft maintenance engineers.
Sunil Bhaskaran, Director of Aviation Academy, Air India, said, “The Basic Maintenance Training Organization will establish a pipeline of skilled engineers trained to Air India standards from the outset. This facility and program, combined with proximity to Kempegowda International Airport, will enable our AME cadets to gain hands-on, real-world experience as part of their training, supporting their future as industry-ready professionals aligned with Air India’s ongoing fleet expansion needs.”
The program meets Air India’s growing fleet maintenance requirements and offers specialized career paths for its AME graduates.
The program encourages students to pursue a simultaneous bachelor’s degree through university partnerships, enhancing their academic and career opportunities.
Collaboration with BACL & Vihaan.AI’s Journey
Rao Munukutla, Executive Director & CEO, Bengaluru Airport City Limited (BACL), said, “Air India’s commitment to establishing a state-of-the-art training facility symbolizes a bold step forward in enhancing India’s aviation capabilities. Education and skill development are vital to sustaining the growth of Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru. The Air India BMTO reinforces our vision of developing a thriving ecosystem that drives innovation and collaboration.”
Air India has embarked on a five-year transformation journey, Vihaan.AI, which includes a commitment to more than 500 new aircraft.
The delivery of these aircraft is underway, along with commencement of USD 400 million interior retrofit program for legacy aircraft.
Air India has also begun in-housing of line maintenance operations across group airlines that will strengthen its self-reliance.
In September 2024, Air India Group announced the commencement of construction of a mega MRO facility in Bengaluru.
This move reiterates its commitment to building a strong, self-reliant aviation ecosystem for India.
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