South Africa’s renowned aviation training organization, 43 Airschool has made a significant announcement via its official Twitter account. The institution revealed that they have signed a preferred supplier contract with Air India Express, the budget subsidiary of Air India, which is owned by the Indian conglomerate Tata. The contract entails the provision of Ab Initio Cadets, Initial Type Rating, and Command Upgrade Training for the airline.
This news comes shortly after Air India firmed up a substantial order placement at the Paris Airshow. The Indian carrier finalized orders for a staggering 250 Airbus aircraft and 220 new Boeing jets, with a combined value of $70 billion at list prices. Notably, Air India’s firm orders consist of 70 widebody planes, including 34 A350-1000s and six A350-900s from Airbus. Additionally, they have ordered 20 787 Dreamliners and 10 777Xs from Boeing. The order also encompasses 140 Airbus A320neo, 70 Airbus A321neo, and 190 Boeing 737 MAX narrowbody aircraft.
Furthermore, Air India has secured options to purchase an additional 70 planes from Boeing, comprising 50 737 MAXs and 20 787 Dreamliners, as stated in a separate announcement by the U.S. aircraft manufacturer. This order marks the largest in South Asia for Boeing.