Chandigarh :
Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann today unveiled a comprehensive vision to position Punjab as a key hub for the aviation industry. During an interaction with aircraft engineers and trainees at the Patiala Flying Club, he emphasized the government’s commitment to providing high-quality, affordable aviation training, breaking the traditional monopoly of the wealthy over aviation careers.
Highlighting government subsidies, Mann said that becoming a commercial pilot at Patiala Flying Club now costs ₹22–25 lakh—roughly half the fees charged by private institutes—making aviation careers accessible to children from ordinary households, including farmers, shopkeepers, and teachers.
The Chief Minister also announced the upcoming Aviation Museum at Patiala, costing ₹7 crore, which will feature MiG aircraft, second-generation helicopters, simulators, and exhibits showcasing India’s aviation heritage. The Department of Civil Aviation’s new website, dca.punjab.gov.in, was also launched during the event.
Mann noted that the Patiala Flying Club, established in 1965 and spread over 253 acres, ranks seventh nationally. It currently operates seven training aircraft, including single-engine and multi-engine planes, and the newly acquired Tecnam P2006T. Additionally, the state government provides affordable technical education at Patiala Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) College. The three-year B.Sc (Hons.) + DGCA-approved AME program costs only ₹3 lakh, compared to ₹5–8 lakh in other states, with 33% of seats reserved for SC and BC students.
Over 4,000 professionals trained at the Patiala Flying Club and College are now employed across major airlines, aviation firms, charter companies, and MRO organizations, with starting salaries averaging ₹1.5 lakh per month.
Emphasizing job creation, Mann said the government’s goal is to build an aviation ecosystem that produces job givers rather than job seekers. He urged students to stay grounded, work hard, and carve out their identity, noting that Punjab offers immense opportunities for growth and excellence in the aviation sector.
