IndiGo, the leading airline in India by both market share and fleet size, has unveiled its intentions to adopt Evidence-Based Training (EBT) for its flight crew. This next-generation pilot training framework aims to enhance safety, decision-making, and performance capabilities through the utilization of data analytics and artificial intelligence (AI).
This significant move marks a shift in IndiGo’s flight training strategy, moving away from the current Competency-Based Training and Assessment (CBTA) model. The airline is working towards a fully integrated, evidence-driven training program that aligns with the global best practices in pilot development.
A senior official from IndiGo confirmed that the airline is currently laying the groundwork for becoming CBTA-compliant, a crucial step before fully transitioning to EBT. This advanced training system will rely on operational performance data to adapt training to the real-life challenges faced by pilots during flights.
“As we become CBTA-compliant, we are laying the foundation for a mature transition to EBT,” the official explained. “With our extensive data resources and the guidance of industry best practices and consultancies, our goal is to effectively reach the EBT phase.”
IndiGo plans to capitalize on its large operational database, which is based on over 2,300 flights daily and a fleet of more than 400 aircraft. This data will help in creating customized training profiles that reflect actual in-flight experiences.
The EBT system will employ AI-driven data validation and analytics to identify behavioral trends, performance patterns, and areas that require skill enhancement across critical competencies such as situational awareness, decision-making, and crew resource management (CRM).
The airline anticipates a timeline of approximately 12 to 18 months for the implementation of this program, which will be developed in partnership with leading global training consultants and original equipment manufacturers (OEM).
With a current pilot workforce exceeding 5,300, IndiGo expects its numbers to double by 2030, an expansion supported by an impressive order of over 900 aircraft, including wide-body aircraft for long-distance operations. This move signifies IndiGo’s commitment to maintaining high standards in pilot training and safety while preparing for future growth in the aviation sector.