Pilot training centre to come up near Shivamogga airport

A pilot training centre is set to become a reality near the Shivamogga airport at Sogane, with the state government initiating the process under the 'Invest, Develop and Operate' model.

A global tender will soon be floated to identify an operator, with the centre to be leased for 20 years.

Sources at the Shivamogga airport confirmed to DH that the Karnataka State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (KSIIDC) has formulated the scheme. The proposed centre aims to train around 100 pilots, with 25 seats reserved exclusively for candidates from Karnataka.

Candidates, who have completed Class 12 with Physics and Mathematics, will be eligible to apply. In addition, they must clear a mandatory medical examination. The course is expected to cost around Rs 50 lakh.

An official from the Shivamogga airport told DH that approximately 3,500 square metres of land will be leased to the agency to set up and run the training facility. Of this, 1,500 sq mts will be allotted near the terminal, and the remaining 2,000 sq mts will be outside the terminal premises. The centre will include offices, classrooms, a library, and four to five aircraft for hands-on training.

“We are only providing the space; the agency must pay annual rent to the government for utilising the premises. The estimated rent is around ₹1,200 per square metre,” the official said.

While private pilot training academies are already operating at the Kalaburagi and Mysuru airports, the proposed Shivamogga centre will be unique as it is mandated to function for a minimum of 20 years — a condition not applicable to the others.

The official further stated that KSIIDC will offer essential infrastructure support, including fire safety services, ambulance facilities, air traffic control, and access to the runway.