Indian students flocks to New Zealand flying schools

Manawatu is reaping the benefits of the booming Indian economy, with large numbers of potential pilots winging their way to our flight training schools to earn their commercial licences.
It is estimated more than 200 Indian students are undertaking training in New Zealand this year, bringing millions of dollars to the economy.
Flight Training Manawatu, based at the Feilding Aerodrome, has 27 international students on its books thanks largely to a recruiting agent encouraging young Indians to enrol.
Chief executive Michael Bryant said the school, which runs 13 aircraft, has a full roll and even has a waiting list for domestic students.
The resulting financial flow-on for the region was enormous, he said.
“I can’t disclose figures. As you probably know, flight training isn’t cheap. But it’s not just the fees coming in, they live here for eight or nine months so you have accommodation and all those other expenses as well.
“The spin-off for the local economy really is huge.”
New English proficiency requirements for pilots, that came into effect last week, would not impact on recruitment, Mr Bryant said.
Students enrolling in the course were taught English from an early age and had a good understanding of the language before arriving, he said.
The growth in international student numbers has mirrored that of Flight Training Manawatu.
The school opened 14 years ago as a two-man operation and now has 13 paid flight instructors.
Mr Bryant said it was at its maximum operation and would stay at its current size in order to maintain the quality of training offered.
Massey University School of Aviation general manager Ashok Poduval said the global pilot shortage meant employment opportunities were vast for those with the necessary skills.
10/03/08 Christian Bonnevie/Manawatu Standard, New Zealand