Director General of the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), Nadir Shafi Dar, announced plans on Wednesday to export skilled Pakistani pilots to international airlines amid a growing regional shortage of cockpit crew.
Surplus Pilots to Serve Global Airlines
Dar stated that while Pakistani aviation meets the domestic demand for pilots, surplus personnel will be made available to foreign carriers. This initiative aligns with efforts to strengthen Pakistan’s aviation industry and cater to the global demand for skilled pilots.
Collaboration with International Companies
Two international companies have already shown interest in the program. One has initiated Phase 1, providing selected Pakistani candidates with ground training at its academy in Sharjah, followed by practical flight training.
Eight graduates from this program are now employed by private airlines in Pakistan.
Comprehensive Training Agreements Finalized
The CAA has signed agreements to offer end-to-end pilot training, from initial cockpit lessons to full commercial pilot certification. These agreements ensure that trainees are employed by commercial airlines upon completing their training.
Plans for Local Pilot Training Academies
Efforts are underway to establish training academies within Pakistan, with financial support planned for promising candidates. Dar also encouraged local flying clubs to expand their facilities to meet the increasing demand for pilot training.
Cost and Long-Term Benefits
Dar acknowledged the high initial training costs, estimated between Rs100 million and Rs150 million for the required flying hours. Despite this, he emphasized that the initiative will play a vital role in boosting Pakistan’s aviation sector and creating opportunities for Pakistani pilots globally.
“This initiative will significantly contribute to the growth of Pakistan’s aviation industry,” Dar stated.
