3 days ago
Flying schools to be rated by civil aviation regulator from October 2025
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) will introduce a formal ranking system for Flying Training Organisations (FTOs) operating in India, starting October 1, 2025. This biannual framework is aimed at enhancing the overall quality, safety, and consistency of pilot training across the to the aviation regulator, the new ranking system will evaluate FTOs approved by the DGCA under four performance categories — A++, A+, A, and B. Organisations placed in the "B" category will be issued advisories for introspection and required to take corrective steps to enhance their DGCA plans to release the rankings twice a year, tentatively on April 1 and October 1, and has said the initiative is part of a broader effort to foster a transparent, performance-based training environment in Indian PURPOSE BEHIND RANKING FTOs
The DGCA outlined four key objectives for implementing this system:Standardisation of Training Quality: The rankings will offer a uniform method to compare institutions, helping to establish consistent training standards Transparency and Accountability: The framework will allow students, regulators, and stakeholders to access reliable performance data, thereby reinforcing regulatory compliance and operational discipline among Choices for Aspiring Pilots: Student pilots will be able to assess FTOs based on quality indicators rather than location or cost, empowering them to make better educational for Regulatory Oversight: The ranking data will assist authorities in recognising top-performing institutions for growth opportunities and identifying underperforming ones for increased supervision or EVALUATION AND MONITORINGUnder the new system, all FTOs will be required to submit performance metrics within designated timelines. The DGCA retains the right to conduct audits and on-ground inspections to verify submitted data. Any instance of misreporting or failure to comply with the framework may not only impact an institution's rank but could also lead to regulatory aviation body asserts that this move will drive a culture of continuous improvement and excellence in pilot training. It also expects the initiative to contribute significantly to improved safety outcomes and the broader sustainability of the Indian aviation its statement, the DGCA concluded, 'The FTO Ranking System aims to safeguard student interests while also ensuring a steady stream of well-trained pilots, which is vital for the safe and sustainable growth of aviation in India.' - EndsMust Watch