IndiGo to Implement Evidence-Based Pilot Training
IndiGo, India’s largest airline, is preparing for a significant modernization of its pilot development framework by announcing plans to transition to Evidence-Based Training (EBT).
This move, leveraging the power of data analytics and Artificial Intelligence (AI), aims to sharply enhance the skills, situational awareness, and decision-making capabilities of its rapidly growing pilot corps.
The airline, which currently operates over 2,300 daily flights with a fleet exceeding 400 aircraft and a pilot strength of over 5,300, is adopting EBT as it prepares for large-scale expansion, including the induction of wide-body aircraft and an order book of over 900 new planes.
The airline expects its pilot strength to double by 2030, making a modern, scalable training system essential.
The Evolution from CBTA to EBT
IndiGo currently utilizes the Competency-Based Training and Assessment (CBTA) framework.
According to a senior airline official, the shift to EBT is the natural progression for an airline that matures its CBTA implementation.
- Timeline: The transition to a fully EBT-compliant system is expected to take between 12 to 18 months.
- The Process: “We will first collect and validate all the data, and then base the training programme on that evidence,” the official explained. This requires first baselining the existing CBTA system, and then using global best practices and expert consultants to finalize the EBT structure.
Evidence-Based Training (EBT) is a globally recognized safety improvement initiative, supported by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
Traditional training often focuses on repeating exposure to pre-defined “worst-case” accident scenarios.
In contrast, EBT uses real-world operational data to identify the most relevant threats and errors faced by the crew.
Harnessing Data Analytics and AI for Customised Learning
The core differentiator of EBT is its reliance on big data and technology to design training modules.
IndiGo plans to leverage its vast operational dataset—collected from thousands of daily flights—to customize and refine its curriculum.
- Data-Driven Design: The training modules will be designed and constantly refined based on data analytics and AI insights. These insights will be derived from actual flight operations.
- Customized Programmes: The use of data will allow the airline to identify specific training needs and design learning programmes tailored for different pilot groups. These programs will address common deficiencies revealed by operational evidence rather than generic scenarios.
The training under EBT focuses intensely on core competencies critical to modern flight safety, moving beyond mere technical skills.
These key competencies include:
- Decision-Making
- Situational Awareness
- Communication
- Crew Resource Management (CRM)
- Aircraft Flight Path Management (Manual and Automated Control)
- Leadership and Teamwork
The objective is to better equip pilots to manage unforeseen, complex situations in a highly reliable aviation system.
Future-Proofing IndiGo Workforce
IndiGo strategically linked its exponential fleet expansion to the adoption of EBT.
With more than 900 aircraft on order and a projected doubling of its pilot strength, the airline requires a robust, scalable, and highly efficient system.
This system is needed to train and maintain the competency of its human capital.
By moving to this modern, data-driven system, IndiGo is aligning its safety and training standards with global aviation best practices.
This ensures the continued high safety and efficiency of its operations as it expands its footprint both domestically and internationally, including the new wide-body operations.
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