IndiGo offers fully funded pilot training for women, applications close June 30

IndiGoReach, the corporate social responsibility arm of IndiGo, has launched applications for its ‘Giving Wings to Fly’ initiative, a fully supported aviation career programme aimed at helping women from economically disadvantaged households become industry-ready commercial pilots. Applications for the first batch will remain open until June 30, 2026.

According to programme details released by IndiGoReach, the initiative seeks to address barriers that often prevent aspiring pilots from pursuing aviation careers by providing training, mentorship and financial support throughout the learning journey. The programme is being implemented by BharatCares (SMEC Trust), while pilot training will be delivered by Chimes Aviation Academy, a DGCA-approved Flying Training Organisation.

The launch comes as the aviation industry continues to focus on strengthening workforce diversity and building a broader talent pipeline across technical and operational roles.

Comprehensive support from training to career guidance

The programme has been structured to support candidates through multiple stages of commercial pilot training and professional development. According to the programme brochure, selected participants will receive support covering both training and living expenses.

Key features of the programme include:

• Full support for Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) and ATR Type Rating training

• Accommodation and meals during the training period

• Medical insurance coverage during training

• Mentorship from aviation industry professionals

• Career guidance designed to prepare candidates for commercial aviation careers

The programme is designed to prepare candidates for airline-ready pilot roles through a structured pathway that combines classroom learning, flight training and professional development.

Eligibility criteria set for first intake

Applications are open exclusively to female Indian citizens who meet the programme’s educational and economic eligibility requirements.

Applicants must:

• Be between 18 and 35 years of age as of May 1, 2026

• Have completed higher secondary education (10+2) with English, Physics and Mathematics

• Secure a minimum of 51% marks collectively and in each of the required subjects

• Belong to an economically disadvantaged household that meets government EWS criteria

• Hold a valid Indian passport or have initiated the passport application process before June 30, 2026

The selection process includes eligibility screening, psychometric and cognitive assessments, statement of purpose submissions, aptitude testing, interviews and document verification before final onboarding.

First batch to select 15 candidates

Programme documents indicate that 15 candidates will be shortlisted for the inaugural batch based on merit and the discretion of the selection committee.

The overall process from selection to training commencement is expected to take approximately three months. The training itself spans around 20 months, including ground school, flying training and ATR Type Rating certification.

According to the programme structure, candidates will undergo six months of ground school training in Gurugram, followed by 12 months of flight training in Madhya Pradesh and an additional two months of ATR Type Rating training after CPL completion.

Building a future talent pipeline for aviation

The initiative reflects growing efforts within the aviation sector to improve access to specialised careers and encourage greater participation of women in flight operations. Commercial pilot training remains one of the most expensive professional education pathways, making financial support programmes increasingly important for widening access to aviation careers.

With applications now open and the first intake limited to 15 candidates, the programme represents a targeted effort to create new pathways into the cockpit for aspiring women pilots while supporting the industry's long-term talent development needs.