After FTOs, DGCA plans review of AME schools
The audit will assess workshop and simulator access, which are critical for practical learning
After completing a nationwide review of Flight Training Organisations (FTOs), India’s civil aviation regulator is now preparing to launch a similar audit of Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) schools, sources told businessline.
Accordingly, the audit will assess compliance, infrastructure standards, and training quality.
Speaking to , sources said that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has identified the need for a comprehensive evaluation of AME institutes.
“The regulator concluded an extensive inspection of FTOs which focused on safety, infrastructure, instructor standards, and operational readiness,” sources said .
“The next logical step is to review AME schools to ensure that the technical workforce being trained for the aviation sector meets global safety and maintenance standards,” they added.
The proposed review will cover adherence to CAR (Civil Aviation Requirement) standards, infrastructure adequacy, and instructor qualifications.
Besides, the audit will assess workshop and simulator access, which are critical for practical learning.
India currently has over 50 DGCA-approved AME training institutes, which train engineers for both domestic and international airlines, MROs (maintenance, repair and overhaul organisations), and general aviation operators.
However, sector experts have pointed out a widening gap between industry requirements and the skill sets of graduating engineers.
Furthermore, the review is expected to focus on placement records, internship tie-ups with MROs, and adherence to new digital record-keeping and safety norms.
Notably, the move comes at a time when the Indian aviation industry is witnessing its largest fleet expansion in history, with major carriers placing orders for more than 1,000 new aircraft.
The surge in capacity is expected to create a significant demand for skilled maintenance personnel.
“The regulator wants to ensure that AME schools are producing job-ready engineers equipped for modern fleets and technology,” the sources added.
The audit, sources said will form the basis for a possible overhaul of training regulations, aligning them more closely with international benchmarks such as those prescribed by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Published on November 11, 2025
