India Needs 20,000 Pilots to Meet Aviation Growth: Minister K Rammohan Naidu

New Delhi, 20th Feb. Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu on Thursday highlighted the growing demand for pilots in India, stating that at least 20,000 pilots will be needed in the coming years as the country’s aviation sector expands.

Speaking at UDAAN Bhawan during the launch of the Electronic Personnel License (EPL) for pilots, Naidu emphasized that aviation plays a crucial role in connectivity, economic growth, and technological advancements. He announced plans for 50 new airports over the next five years, adding to the existing 157, which has doubled in the last decade.

“With airline orders reaching 1,700 planes, we foresee rapid growth in the sector, necessitating at least 20,000 pilots in the near future,” Naidu said.

He also highlighted the government’s push for digital transformation in aviation, with the introduction of EPL allowing pilots to access licenses seamlessly. With this move, India becomes the second country after China to implement EPL for flight crew. The initiative aligns with the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) roadmap and supports the government’s Ease of Doing Business and Digital India initiatives.

“This is a game-changer for Indian aviation—enhancing safety, interoperability, and aligning us with global best practices,” Naidu posted on social media platform ‘X’.

Civil Aviation Secretary Vumlunmang Vualnam and DGCA Director-General Faiz Ahmed Kidwai were also present at the event.