8 godzin temu
FLORIDA- Tata Group-owned Air India Flight Training Center has ordered 93 Archer DX aircraft from Piper Aircraft, comprising 31 firm orders for 2025 delivery and 62 options for 2026-2027.
The Initial deliveries will commence in Q1 2025.
Photo: Piper AircraftAir India Orders 93 Piper Aircraft
The aircraft acquisition supports Air India’s (AI) development of its new flight training facility in Amravati, Maharashtra, which aims to become South Asia’s largest aviation training center. This agreement strengthens Piper Aircraft’s expansion into Asian markets through its global fleet program.
Air India CEO and Managing Director Campbell Wilson emphasized the strategic importance of the Archer DX acquisition for pilot training. “This investment enhances our pilot training capabilities, enabling the instruction of hundreds of cadets in our programs,” Wilson stated.
Piper Aircraft President and CEO John Calcagno highlighted Air India’s inclusion in the Piper Flight School Alliance, confirming Piper’s commitment to providing reliable training aircraft for developing future airline pilots.
The partnership marks a significant advancement in aviation training infrastructure within the South Asian region, positioning Air India as a leading force in pilot development.
Photo: Piper AircraftAbout Aircraft
The Archer DX, powered by the Continental CD-155 diesel engine, delivers exceptional fuel efficiency, consuming only 5.8 gallons per hour while maintaining a cruise speed of 114 KTAS.
The aircraft features standard G1000 avionics, combining advanced technology with operational simplicity. Its robust construction specifically addresses the demands of flight training operations.
Technical specifications of the Archer DX demonstrate its training capabilities: maximum cruise speed reaches 128 knots at 75% power, with a range extending to 522 nautical miles.
The aircraft achieves a service ceiling of 14,100 feet and requires 1,608 feet for takeoff and 1,400 feet for landing over a 50-foot obstacle. The 180 HP Lycoming I0-360-B4A engine, coupled with a Sensenich fixed pitch propeller, powers this training aircraft.
Photo: Air IndiaAbout Companies
Piper Aircraft
Piper Aircraft, operating from Vero Beach, Florida, leads general aviation manufacturing with its pioneering Garmin Emergency Autoland certification.
The company’s aircraft portfolio spans multiple categories, including the high-performance M-Class series featuring the M700 FURY, M500, and M350 models, designed for business and private aviation needs.
The manufacturer’s Personal Class line encompasses the Archer LX and Archer DLX, while its Trainer Class series includes the Pilot 100i, Archer TX, Archer DX, and Seminole aircraft, establishing the industry’s most advanced pilot training fleet.
Piper maintains active membership in the General Aviation Manufacturers Association, reinforcing its industry leadership position.
Photo: Air IndiaAir India Aviation Academy
Air India Aviation Academy has established a 600,000-square-foot training complex in Gurugram, positioning itself as South Asia’s largest aviation training facility.
The academy targets the training of 50,000 aviation professionals across multiple disciplines, including pilots, cabin crew, ground handling, engineering, and security personnel.
The academy’s expansion includes a new flight school in Amravati, Maharashtra, designed to graduate 180 pilots annually.
Featured Image By Harsh Tekriwal | AvgeekwithLens | Insta
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Air India Orders 34 New Planes for Pilot Training Academy
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