Canadian co plans aviation academy

New Delhi: Canada-based Winnipeg Aviation (WAI) is planning to set up a pilot training academy in Maharashtra at an investment of $10-15 million (Rs 40-60 crore) by the end of this year. WAI will be the first in the country to operate out of a dedicated greenfield airport and is looking to have an annual intake of 40 students till the end of first phase. WAI managing director (India and Far East), Hemant Shah told ET: “We shall be investing $3-4 million in the first phase that will go into developing infrastructure like hangers, airstrip and aprons at the airport to start flight training operations. Feasibility study has been completed and we are awaiting clearances from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to start the facility.”

Winnipeg Academy has already churned out 55 Indian students from Canada. For the Indian operations, WAI will initially cater to the private jet segment. Besides training, students will have the option to undertake avionics and engineering courses after.
The government, in its new civil aviation policy approved in January this year, had allowed up to 100% foreign direct investment for flying training institutes.
20/03/08 Chanchal Pal Chauhan/Economic Times