Picture credits: X (RamMNK)
New Delhi: The Aero Club of India (ACI) and Sakthi Aircraft Industries Pvt Ltd (SAIPL) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to manufacture 200 Diamond DA40 NG trainer aircraft in India, marking a significant milestone under the ‘Make in India’ initiative.
This collaboration aims to strengthen pilot training capacity, reduce dependence on imports, and position India as a hub for Flight Training Organizations (FTOs).
The signing ceremony was attended by Union Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu, Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh, ACI Chairman Rajiv Pratap Rudy, and Dr. M Manickam, Chairman of Sakthi Aviation.
Indigenous Manufacturing for Aviation Growth
Under the agreement, Sakthi Aircraft Industries will manufacture and assemble 200 DA40 NG aircraft, with 150 units produced in India at a dedicated manufacturing facility. SAIPL is a joint venture between Coimbatore’s Sakthi Group and Austria’s Diamond Aircraft.
Speaking at the event, Union Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating: “The availability of high-quality trainer aircraft is crucial for the growth of India’s aviation sector. This MoU marks an important step in strengthening our domestic flight training infrastructure while reducing dependence on imported aircraft.”
Deliveries are expected to begin by May 2025, with an initial target of 70 aircraft by the end of the year and plans to scale up production to 100 aircraft annually. The aircraft will be sustained and supported within India, ensuring a cost-effective and self-reliant training ecosystem.
Reducing Import Dependency and Strengthening FTOs
The Aero Club of India, established in 1927, is the national governing body for flying clubs and general aviation activities. By partnering with SAIPL, ACI aims to provide a steady and cost-effective supply of modern trainer aircraft to Indian FTOs.
Highlighting the impact of this collaboration, ACI Chairman Rajiv Pratap Rudy stated: “This is a historic moment for aviation training in India. By consolidating aircraft orders from multiple Flight Training Organizations, we are ensuring a sustainable and cost-effective model for pilot training.”
To ease financial burdens on FTOs, ACI is also exploring commercial lease arrangements with financial partners. This aims to make aircraft acquisition more accessible and reduce operational costs for pilot training institutions.
Commitment to Self-Reliance and Skilled Workforce Development
With a global surge in pilot demand, this initiative is expected to train over 1,000 pilots annually and 10,000 pilots over the next decade, equipping them to operate a range of commercial aircraft.
Picture credits: X (RamMNK)
Dr. M Manickam, Chairman of Sakthi Aviation, underscored the company’s commitment to Indian aviation manufacturing, stating: “This initiative aligns with India’s vision of self-reliance in aviation manufacturing. By setting up an assembly line in India, we aim to provide advanced training aircraft that meet the needs of Indian FTOs.”
Reinforcing the government’s focus on aviation growth, Minister Naidu added: “Flight training organizations are a key pillar in India’s aviation industry. By fostering indigenous manufacturing, we are building a stronger, more resilient training ecosystem for the next generation of pilots.”
SAIPL CEO Vaibhav D expressed confidence in the project, emphasizing that domestic production will address the critical shortage of trainer aircraft, drive innovation, create high-skilled jobs, and establish India as a global aviation hub.
Diamond DA40 NG – A Modern Trainer Aircraft
The Diamond DA40 NG is a single-engine, four-seat aircraft equipped with a glass cockpit featuring Garmin G1000 NXi avionics. Known for its fuel efficiency, safety, and advanced training capabilities, it is widely used by flight schools worldwide.
A Step Toward an Aviation Hub
This strategic collaboration aligns with the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ vision of self-reliance and aims to enhance training efficiency, lower operational costs, and ensure a steady pipeline of skilled aviators for the Indian aviation sector.
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