COMMERCIAL AVIATION - Industry Overview

The aviation industry in India has two distinct sectors: Commercial and Military. Commercial aviation includes passenger airlines and cargo planes, international air services, air taxi and charter operations being their major functions. Military aviation is comprised of the Indian Air Force and the aviation arms of the Navy and Army. Fighter bombers such as the MIG27, MIG 29 Jaguar, MIG 25, MIG23, MI 35 and Mirage 2000 as well as transport aircrafts and helicopters form the military fleet. Coast Guard too has sea harriers and helicopters. Military and para military aircrafts are used during war time as well as for rescue operations.

Commercial aviation industry includes Airports, Airlines and the people working in these. This chapter details Commercial Operations of airlines, jobs at the airport which are largely administrative in nature, jobs with airlines both in flight and on the ground, and lastly jobs with the technical wing which is involved in aircraft maintenance and serviceability as well as the communication networks. Finally the manufacturing segment has been included.

The structure

Apex body - Director General of Civil Aviation in India (DGCA) -

The commercial aviation industry follows regulations given by the DGCA. The main function of the organization is control, standardisation, licencing of air crews, conducting investigations of incidents and accidents and carrying out regulatory functions. Aircrafts need certification for airworthiness. From framing of rules to licencing of air crew as well as engineers is the responsibility of DGCA. At the head of the Directorate of Civil Aviation is the Director General. Civil Aviation Research and Development Organization gives constant relevant inputs to the Director General for improving air travel in the country.

Commercial sector -

Commercial sector includes airlines operations, maintenance, marketing and finance divisions. The operations division conducts day to day activities of the airline, overseeing the pilots and flight attendants, the flight despatchers, flight schedulers and ground crew. Engineering and technical division handles the maintenance of avionics and mechanics of the aircrafts, carrying out daily inspections, routine repairs etc.The marketing function involves selling services of the airline, creating market strengths, and supply through advertising, devising new programmes/services, attracting customers and controlling ticket reservations and managing material purchases. The finance division is concerned with managing the money flow. Several other professionals work for airlines such as interior decorators,who are assigned the task of decorating passenger lounges at airports and also aircraft interiors. Fashion designers design the uniforms of pilots, aircrew, check in personnel and others.

Commercial transport airplanes also form part of the commercial aviation industry. These aircrafts carry small packages as well as heavy machinery and equipments. Transportation of foodstuffs, fresh fruits and vegetables, seafood and meatstuff as well as fresh flowers is becoming a very large source of earning for the industry.

Airports -

Commercial aircrafts operate from the civil airports while mlitary aircrafts operate from military airfields and in exceptional circumstances from civil aerodromes. Airports are large townships which have their own security and rescue services, fire department, retail outlets, restaurants, construction and maintenance teams, warehouses for cargo and an independent transport system.

The operations at an airport includes its management, fuel supplies, hangers, repair and maintenance. A critical feature of airports is its communication system (control tower). Air traffic controllers regulate the flow of traffic in and out of the airport. There are additional air traffic control centres interspersing airways linking the entire system. International airports and airports near the country’s borders have custom and immigration departments.

Aircraft manufacture -

A very important part of the airline industry are the aircraft manufacturers. While most of the commercial aircrafts are bought from foreign manufacturers, Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. as well as National Aeronautics Ltd. are the main Indian manufacturers.

Though their major work is related to maintenance these units have manufactured some indigenous airplanes. In the manufacturing sector work physicists, biologists, engineers, mathematicians, design engineers, technicians, accountants, lawyers and administrative staff. Industries supplying components and electronics also employ a range of specialists.

Manufacturers of parachutes, skydiving equipments are yet others who fall in the manufacturing segment.

Jobs with Airlines - Introduction

Commercial Airlines have Airlines operation staff, Engineering staff and the Commercial division.

The industry’s functioning depends largely on the airlines operating through the networked air routes and airport facilities. In India the Airlines are managed by the government as well as by private agencies. Air India is the international airline of India. It started its first flight in 1948 to London with a super constellation aircraft. It now connects India to almost all the countries of the world.

Indian Airlines is the domestic airline which is so far government controlled. The policy of the Government to open the Indian skies to private airlines has led to a number of private airlines in the country. These airlines fly not only on major routes to large cities but even to smaller towns and hill resorts. Some of the private Airlines are Jet Airways, Jagson Airlines, City Link Airways, Modiluft Airlines, East West Airlines, Sahara and many more. There are aircrafts which are also owned by some large public sector firms. These firms use the aircrafts for survey as well as for their management. Some examples are firms dealing with iron ore, steel, lignite, etc.

Almost every State has a flying club. This is overseen by the Directorate of Civil Aviation. The aircrafts owned by flying clubs are used for training of PPL licence candidates. State Ministers and senior government officials also use the aircrafts when on special duty.

Airline functional areas

For understanding how Airlines function and coordinate their flight schedules at various airports we can divide the work into three different functional heads - Airlines Operations, Technical and Engineering Division, Commercial division.

Airline operations -

Airline operations involves mainly the flying of aircrafts owned by the airline on scheduled routes. The Operations Division concerns itself mainly with ensuring safety and efficiency of the flights.

People in the operation of any flight and passenger comfort are :

-- Pilots

-- Co-pilots

-- Air cabin crew (Flight pursers/Air hostesses)

Technical and engineering division -

The team which maintains aircrafts has specialists in avionics, mechanical, aeronautical and electronics engineering. Every aircraft needs proper maintenance and overhauling before it is allowed to fly. The engineering division is responsible for ensuring that the aircrafts are fit to fly.

Commercial division -

From booking of tickets, reception, check in counter operations to cargo

handling every airline has a wide variety of jobs to perform in the service of the passengers. There are business managers, travel tourism management executives, finance, law professionals and graduates handling various passenger service jobs. Announcers, ticketing clerks, reservation clerks, cargo handling personnel all comprise the commercial operations within an airline.

Airline Operations (Flying)

Inflight crew

Pilot, co-pilot and the cabin crew consisting of air hostesses/flight pursers are the main people in airline operations during flight. After the terrorist attack on World Trade Centre in the US an Air Marshal accompanies the crew on board every airplane. He is trained in terrorist attack management and security.

Nature of Work

Airline Pilot

In command of a flight is the Captain or Chief Pilot. He is assisted during the flight by a co-pilot. The job is highly specialised and requires intensive training.

Pilots fly aircrafts on long and short flights. One hour before take-off pilots check pre-flight plans. These define the route to be taken, height to be maintained and include meteorological information. Pilots have to do complex calculations of take-off and landing and they have to work out the fuel needed for distance to be travelled and height and weight to be maintained. Pilots also check that equipment and instruments are functioning properly and that noise regulations for take-off and landing are observed. Their work includes briefing the crew and supervising loading and refuelling. Initial contact too is made with air traffic control who advise the pilot on take-off.

Onflight -

Pilots have to interpret the data presented to them on instruments and controls, sometimes they use computers in their calculations. The most complicated aspects of a flight are take-off and landing. Pilots may have to make adjustments as necessary during flights. They use their skills continuously, checking instruments for malfunction even while the aircraft is on automatic control.

Pilots maintain contact with air traffic controls and cabin crew throughout the flight they speak at intervals to passengers, giving them information over the public address system on speed and height, details of ground areas they are flying over. They give warnings of turbulence and difficult weather conditions. They may also leave the flight deck to speak to passengers. Duties are shared usually with one co-pilot, occasionally two on long-flights, but responsibility for the aircraft and its safety finally rests with the pilot.

After landing -

When the aircraft has been taxied to its final position, the pilot shuts down the engines and writes a flight report, noting any problems or instrument difficulties.

Work Environment

Pilots spend long hours on flight decks in a seated position. There are rules for the number of hours pilots may work without a rest period. As they fly at ‘unsocial’ hours they can experience jet lag, particularly on long-distance schedules, and may return on scheduled flights as passengers.

Flight delays due to weather or other difficulties and 24 hour schedules means irregular working hours and time spent overseas in a hotel or airport.

Personal Characteristics

The work of pilots involves great responsibility both for the safety of the aircraft and safety of passengers and crew. Flying requires grit, presence of mind, courage, determination and physical fitness due to the risks which flying involves.

They need to be self-confident and at ease working with other people. Pilots have to be reliable, calm and level-headed, able to take charge in an emergency. They should be able to keep good clear communication both with the team on board and with air traffic control. The ability to inspire confidence in both passengers and air crew is very important.

Good practical and co-ordination skills are needed along with technical skills and understanding. Pilots need a high sense of spatial orientation and the ability to relate to various factors in space without getting disoriented.

A positive orientation for the profession and physical fitness are needed. Capability in crew and cockpit resource management are required. Since they have to write reports written English must be of a good standard for report writing. Good health and fitness are vital and tested on application and at regular intervals throughout a pilot’s career.

Air Cabin Crew - Nature of Work

Flight supervisers, Pursures, Air hostesses and Flight attendants form the air cabin crew.

Air cabin crew look after the welfare, comfort and safety of passengers travelling in the aircraft. At least one hour before each flight, attendants are briefed by the captain on expected weather conditions, special passenger problems, and other matters.

They check that emergency equipment is in order, that the aircraft and toilets are tidy and seat pocket information is in place. They also check that sufficient meals and beverage are available for the number of passengers. They check that first aid kits and other emergency equipment are aboard and in working order. As passengers come aboard, attendants greet them, check their tickets, and assist them in storing carry on luggage. Having welcomed passengers on board and shown them to their seats, they check that doors are closed and seat belts fastened. Before take-off they demonstrate the use of emergency equipment and point out exit doors and notify the pilot when they are ready for take-off. On the flight they serve meals and drinks. Meals are usually pre-packed and stored in hot cases.

On some flights cabin crew sell duty-free goods such as alcohol, perfume and tobacco. This work is usually done in pairs in certain sections of the cabin, the work being allocated by the chief stewardess or steward. They make announcements on behalf of the pilot and before landing check that safety belts are fastened. During their work they may have to deal with emergencies such as the ill health of passengers and must be able to administer first aid. In case of flight emergencies they are trained to immediately apply the safety drills and help passengers from the aircraft before leaving themselves.

When the flight terminates they check stocks of duty-free goods and complete account sheets showing balance of cash and stock so that new stock can be ordered. They then prepare reports on medications given to passengers, lost and found articles, and cabin equipment conditions. Some flight attendants straighten up the plane’s cabin. Senior flight attendants are working supervisors aboard planes- directing the work of junior attendants while performing some of the same duties.

Cabin crew of national carriers serve airlines till the age of 58 years and in the inflight division can become deputy general managers. With experience they become supervisors and assign and oversee the work of junior cabin crew members. Most airlines allow crew members to opt for other jobs within the airline company depending on their suitability for the positions available. Some airlines as a routine assign administrative and other ground duties to senior inflight staff members. Most foreign airlines permit inflight crew members to opt for training and supervisory positions after they have the required experience.

What lures young people in this profession is most evidently the glamour of air travel as also the life style. It is true that the pay scales are attractive and the perks and allowances alluring. To begin the salary is anything between Rs 20,000/- and up with national carriers and almost upto 3 times with international airlines. Besides attractive perks you get free air tickets for yourself and family on the routes covered by the airlines. With international airlines there is opportunity to see the world both at leisure and on duty but all this comes along with tremendous toil. The long flight will keep you on your toes for hours, short journeys will demand brisk service, some passengers may demand constant care and there is challenge of making the journey comfortable for some irate passengers too.

It is certainly going to be a challenge to be polite gentle and gracious on every flight. There is no place for self pity or praise for it is your duty to make the journey memorable for guests on board as each day offers fresh challenge.

Work Environment

Since airlines operate around the clock, cabin crew may work during the nights and on holidays and weekends. They usually fly 75 to 85 hours a month and spend about 75 to 85 hours a month on ground assignments for preparing planes for the flight, debriefing following completed flights, and waiting for planes that arrive late. Because of variations in scheduling and limitations on flying time, many crew members have 11 or 12 days or more off each month. The crew may be away from their home bases at least one-third of the time. During this period, the airlines provide them with hotel accommodations and an allowance for meal expenses.

Air hostesses and flight attendants have the opportunity to meet interesting people and see new places. The combination of free time and discount air fares provides substantial opportunity for travel. However, the work can be strenuous and trying. Short flights require speedy services of meals. A rough flight can make serving drinks and meals difficult. Attendants stand during the flight and have to remain pleasant and efficient regardless of how tired they are or how demanding passengers may be. Some flights involve crossing time zones with the possibility of jet lag.

Personal Characteristics

Air Hostesses must have a neat appearance. They need to have good health and stamina. Agility and a good sense of balance are needed. This work suits responsible, confident people who are good at dealing with all types of passengers. They require a polite, pleasant and tactful manner with the ability to put people at ease also described as ‘service aptitude’. Commonsense and calmness, together with the ability to react quickly in the case of emergencies is needed. They need to work in a team with the rest of the crew. Clear speech and voice is essential and good written English is required for writing reports. Basic numeracy is required since they have to balance accounts and deal with a variety of currencies on a flight. Ability to converse in a foreign language is an asset. Punctuality is very important.

Air Cabin Crew - Study and Training

National and some international airlines recruit cabin crew by calling for applications through leading newspapers. Details of eligibility for these appointments are as follows :

Eligibility -

The national air carriers, Air India and Indian Airlines and some of the private air carriers recruit graduates in the age group of 19-25 years for training as Air Hostesses and Flight Pursers. Preference is given to Degree or Diploma holders in Hotel Management/Tourism. Female candidates from the Home science background, fulfilling other requirements, are also preferred. Some private airlines, however, have in past selected applicants after class 12 in the age group of 18 - 21 years. International Airlines recruit airhostesses in the age group of 18-35 years.

Recruitment of Flight pursers from India by International Airlines has only been initiated recently.

Good language, ability and proficiency in English, Hindi, a regional language and at least one foreign language are essential requirements for inflight crew members working for National or International carriers. Some foreign airlines give weightage to previous customer service experience and also give preference to candidates who are fluent in the language of the region in which the airline is operating, e.g., an airline operating in South-East Asia region would give preference to a candidate who has some knowledge of the language of the region.

Physical requirements -

Air Hostesses should have a minimum height of 157.5 cm and Flight Pursers 163 cm, proportionate weight is desirable. Domestic airlines minimum height requirement is 154.5 cms. Normal eyesight without glasses or a minimum uncorrected distant vision of 6/40 is acceptable. Total power of contact lenses (for correcting distance vision should not exceed - 2D minus two dioptres)

Selection -

While most airlines maitain data banks of prospective candidates suitable for cabin crew recruitment, vacancies are generally advertised from time to time. The process of selection followed by national carriers is slightly different from international carriers. The former, after careful scrutiny of applications, call candidates for written test comprising of general knowledge, mental ability and verbal ability. This is followed by an interview and group discussion. International airlines on the other hand conduct a preliminary interview during which the measurement of height and weight of the applicants is also checked.

Candidates then have to take a written test which consists of general knowledge, mental ability, language ability (including vocabulary, listening, reading, speaking test for Hindi and English). This is followed by a main interview, during which the candidates language fluency, diction, voice, communication skill, personality and reaction to adverse situations is assessed. Candidates are expected to have good knowledge of the aviation industry.

Training -

Selected candidates are trained by airlines. Each airline has a training schedule for the recruited inflight staff and this is carried out at their training centres or agencies appointed by them. Air India and Jet Airways trains its cabin crew at Mumbai while Indian Airlines at Hyderabad. International Airlines send their recruited candidates to their headquarters where the training is carried out over a span of few weeks.

During the training, recruits are taught technical, safety and interpersonal skills. They are familiarised with aviation technicalities as well as about the destinations they are expected to be flying on. Food and beverage service, emergency management and training in first aid comprise the practical skills training. Most of the practical training including flight safety exercises are carried out in mock air craft cabins. The training generally lasts for 6-8 weeks after which flight trainees are assigned to work in the economy class. During that period they also participate in progressive training and to enhance their inflight skills.

The training is conducted in Airline environment and in a mock up aircraft cabin. At various stages of training practical and written tests are taken. The course includes study in food and drink service and galley management, currency exchange, customs and immigration regulations and documentation, first aid and medical training, safety and survival and care of special passengers, personal hygiene and grooming.

The form of the course includes lectures, visits, demonstrations, discussion, films and slides and emergency procedure practice. After completion of the initial course, entrants have to go through a probationary period of on-the-job training with the airline under the supervision of experienced cabin crew for between six months to a year. Crew also retrain in safety and emergency procedures for each type of aircraft they work in.

Courses and Institutions

Air crew training

Indian Airlines Ltd., Central Training Establishment, Ferozguda, Hyderabad 500011. Duration 14 weeks. Eligibility : Graduation, Age : 19-22 yrs.

Central training establishment of Indian Airlines has extended its business to foreign airlines.

Remote access mode training for flight crew i.e computer-based training facilities will be offered with self tuition and self evaluation tools. This will offer access to trainees in India and abroad.

The institute is also planning to tie up with a university to conduct B.Sc (Civil Aviation Courses).

Delhi Flying Club Ltd., Faculty of Flight Safety Services, Safdarjung Airport, New Delhi - 110003.

Sahara India Aviation Academy, 249/250, Block A, Road No. 8, Mahipalpur, New Delhi 110037.

Duration: 4 weeks. (DGCA approved syllabi) course and 3 months of mandatory training aboard Sahara Airlines, followed by an examination.

Dean Travel & Tours (P) Ltd in Bangalore has organized through their service management centre, training programmes for the service and hospitality staff of the airline industry. These programmes, are patterned after those of leading international airlines and are expected to increase the candidates efficiency and competence as air hostess/flight purser. There is emphasis on both theory and practical skills based on real-life situations. This particular three month programme admits men and women in the 18-25 age group. Unmarried males/females who have cleared written exam and interview. For further details you may write to Service Management Centre, B-203, Westminister, Cunningham Road, Bangalore-560 052.

Skyline Educational Institute, Laxman Public School Campus, Hauz Khas New Delhi-110016 offers a B.A.(Hons.) course in International Business and Tourism for 3 years, Certificate course of 1 year duration and a Diploma course of 2 years duration. Eligibility is +2 from any stream.

Selection is made after a written test. The college offers these courses in collaboration with the University of Humberside and Lincolnshire, U.K.

Flytech Aviation Academy, 102, AI-Kauser,Street No.1, Road No.10, West Marredpally, Secunderabad - 500 026 (A.P.) Tel:040-7801109, 7800331,7804963 Fax: 040-7807664 E-Mail:flytech@hotmail.com URL:www.flytechaviation.com offers Cabin Crew Service Training.

Airlines Technical and Engineering Division - Nature of Work

Aeronautical engineers

Aeronautical engineers design, construct, test, operate and maintain the basic structure of aircrafts and spacecrafts as well as propulsion and control systems. Their work includes making estimations of weight, gravity evaluating stress factor and working on projects of aerodynamics, structural design, flight test evaluation, propulsion problems etc.

Aircraft engineers in civil aviation normally specialize in aeronautical mechanical or electronic engineering. Mechanical engineers service and overhaul engines and airframes. Aeronautical electronic engineers specialize in the maintenance of instruments, electrical and electronic equipment, navigation, radar and radio communication. Flight engineers who accompany the crew on flights and work on the flight deck are responsible for the correct functioning of systems and equipment and liasoning with the ground staff when on ground.

Developments with the newer wide-bodied aircraft has meant the use of computers in flight decks allowing only two person crews of pilot and co-pilot and hence the job of a flight engineer is gradually being phased out. They are rarely needed on modern aircrafts. Flight engineers hence make pre-flight inspections and are responsible for the efficient performance of the aircraft during the flight. They diagnose and deal with any systems failures, manage repairs, report any defects to maintenance and later check that they have been dealt with. They may also be responsible for refuelling.

A team of engineers carry out routine maintenance on the ground during aircraft overhauling at airports and respond to reports from air crew of any difficulties experienced during flights, repairing and making corrections. They also do maintenance and overhaul of aircraft in hangers and workshops when an aircraft is due for its regular inspection and checks.

The work requires use of hand and power tools for replacement of parts, the treatment of corrosion, checking of tyres, brakes, instruments, wheel flaps etc - any parts affecting the safety of the aircraft and also safety equipment. They complete worksheets for checks made and these are certified by themselves if they are licensed to do so, or by a qualified supervisor.

Engineers work as part of a very organized and highly efficient team and , particularly during turnarounds, they work often at great speed and under great pressure. Work is normally carried out under supervision of senior engineers. The main thrust of the engineering profession lies in design, development, maintenance and teaching of aeronautics. It is also suited for other non-conventional fields such as air turbine production plants or design development programmes for the aviation industry.

Work Environment

Aircraft engineers work at airports during turnaround of airplanes, working in all types of weather conditions. On routine overhauls and checks they work indoors in workshops and hangers. Work is normally carried out at the home airport. Senior and experienced aircraft engineers sometimes work overseas, supervising the work of contracted foreign crew who do checks on the aircraft. Inside the aircraft the work is carried out in often cramped places requiring bending in awkward positions. Flight engineers work in the confined spaces of flight decks. They normally wear overalls and safety equipment such as eye protectors, harnesses and ear defenders as necessary.

Personal Characteristics

All aircraft engineers must have a strong sense of responsibility since the safety of the aircraft and passengers depends on them to a large degree. This job requires manual, technical and mechanical aptitude. Since aircrafts have to be serviced in a short time - engineers should be able to work at good speed and with accuracy. Ability to work as members of a team is needed. They must have normal colour vision and a good head for heights. Physical fitness and ability for working under stress would count on his efficiency.

Study/Training

Aeronautical Engineering can be studied after +2 (PCM) offering the mechanical and electronics branches as specialised areas of study. Further specialisation can be pursued at the post graduate level. Diploma holders can acquire degrees as detailed in the following sections.

Courses/Institutions

Following are the details for under graduate/post graduate courses :

Undergraduate engineering courses in Aeronautical Engineering

This course is offered by the Indian Institute of Technology in Chennai, Mumbai, Kanpur and Kharagpur and also by the Punjab Engineering College, Chandigarh. Admission to the Aeronautical Engineering course in IIT is through the Joint Entrance Test (JEE) conducted in April/May every year along with the entrance for other streams. Punjab Engineering College too conducts an entrance test and minimum requirements for appearing in the entrance is science (physics, chemistry, mathematics) at the 10+2 stage. Aeronautical Engg. BE courses of 4 years are offered by :

Punjab University , Sector 14, Chandigarh 160014. Eligibility – Class XII with 50% marks in English, Maths, Physics and Chemistry.

University of Madras, Centenary Buildings Chepauk, Triplicane PO, Chennai 600005. Eligibility – Class XII with Physics, Chemistry and Maths or Vocational Stream (Engineering and Technology) or Diploma in Engineering or B.Sc (Applied Science).

Madras Institute of Technology (affiliated to Anna University), Chromepet, Chennai 600044. Course – BTech (3 years) Eligibility – BSc (10+2+3) with one main and two ancillary subjects from Maths, Physics, Chemistry with 70% aggregate in one attempt (50% for SC/ST). Age : Below 22 years (25 years for SC/ST). Selection procedure – Based on merit in the qualifying exam and entrance test conducted by Anna University.

Open seats are filled through the All India Engineering Entrance Examination. (Refer to the Engineering & Technology chapter for more details).

Post graduate courses in Aeronautical Engineering

Some Institutes also offer post-graduate (M.Tech.) and Doctoral (Ph.D.) programmes. The Madras Institute of Technology offers a three year Graduate Programme in Aeronautical Engineering for B.Sc. students, subject to their having passed Maths and Physics at the graduation stage. The Indian Institute of Science (IIS), Bangalore has M.Tech. and Ph.D Programmes in aeronautics.

Airlines Commercial Operations Division - Nature of Work

Ground Duty Staff

Passenger services needs to be overseen by a number of staff carrying out such duties as directing passengers, providing information, checking ticket, issuing boarding passes, luggage and cargo documentation, passenger listing etc.

Passenger services personnel are recruited by almost all airlines, public and private, from young graduates/post graduates who have excellent communication skills and the ability to work as a team. They are the first people to welcome the passengers, check them in and issue boarding passes. They provide information attend to passenger queries, guide them through immigration terminals, custom checks and security clearances and attend to passengers needs till they are on the flight.

Check in personnel receive passengers and their luggage at the check in counters and process their reservations, tickets and boarding passes. Flight supervisors and attendants over see the boarding and deplaning of passengers. Dispatchers help to ensure flights depart on schedule. Station agents supervise the loading and unloading of baggage and assist disabled passengers while boarding. Traffic assistants oversee the loading and unloading of passengers’ luggage, issuing instructions to passengers while deplaning and arranging trolleys for carrying out their luggage.

Entry

Some foreign airlines also recruit ground duty passenger service staff and reservation staff from India to take care of passengers at our country’s terminals. British Airways has staff for its message editing unit in Delhi. Swiss Air tied up with Tata Consultancy to service the entire accounting of the airline giving opportunity to 150 systems operators. Other airlines are likely to offer jobs to Indians with the boom entering international travel.

Jobs at Airports

Introduction

Airports play a very important role in civil aviation. To provide the best possible maintenance and facilities the two organizations : the International Airport Authority of India and the National Airport Authority of India have been merged into one organisation now called as Airport Authorities of India. A tremendous amount of coordinated activity of trained personnel using hi-tech equipment guided by administrative mechanisms has made international and national air travel safe as well as efficient.

The Airport Authority of India (AAI)

The Airport Authority is responsible for the management and development of all National and International airports located at major cities in different parts of the country. It takes care of the Airlines using these Airports. The Airports Authority is involved in managing domestic aerodromes, civil air terminals and also the civil enclaves at Defence aerodromes providing landing facilities to civil aircrafts.

It controls and manages the entire Indian Air space as accepted by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). It is responsible for planning, constructing and maintaining of runways, aircraft movement areas and passenger handling buildings. It provides air traffic services for the safety, regularity and expeditious flow of Air Traffic. It takes care of communication and security systems at domestic airports.

AAI handles the responsibility of warehouses and cargo complexes at the airports. It has the expertise to handle the expansion of airports, air navigation services, ground aids and safety services. The Authority takes up projects, e.g., for flight caliberation of radio navigational aids, or for ground aids and safety services. The Airport Authority has training centres for training fire fighting personnel and for aerodrome and communication personnel. It constantly works towards meeting the desired standards in aerodrome facilities, induction of new aircrafts, modernisation of air traffic control system, terminal facilities etc.

Airports Authority employs maintenance and sanitation crews to maintain the cleanliness of the airport and carry out repair work. Ground personnel work as special duty teams to load and unload cargo, place equipments like ladders for boarding and disembarkation of passengers, maintain the runways, direct airplanes while taxing in and out of the airport.The Airport authority also employs teams of technical personnel - engineers, technicians who inspect, repair and refuel aeroplanes and communication engineers to manage the communication networks. Fire squads and security staff are also positioned for emergencies.

The Administrative staff on airports regulate the activities related to travel regulations, passengers services, immigration and custom regulations. The finance department officials carry out the accounting and financial activities as is required by organisations. The openings are good and remunerative. There in glamour associated with hard work and dedication.

With recent announcements for construction of new airports by private agencies there is scope for many more jobs.

Jobs with Airlines

Cabin Crew

While Pilots are vital for the operation of an airline on scheduled routes, the in flight cabin crew is responsible for ensuring the comfort and care of passengers on board. The opinion of passengers is based on the quality of service an airline provides. Establishing and maintaining the reputation of an airline for quality service is the responsibility of the cabin crew. Flight supervisors, air hostesses, flight pursers and flight attendants are in the true sense public relations officers on board an aircraft, communicating the message of goodwill through care and hospitality. People in these jobs have a happy blend of personality, intelligence, enthusiasm and imagination and have an intense and abiding interest in people as well as travel destinations.

Nature of Work

Air hostesses and flight pursers under the supervision of senior flight supervisors offer in flight passenger services. They look after the welfare, comfort and safety of passengers travelling in the aircraft. While the job appears to be glamorous it’s demands are remorselessly stressful both physically as well as mentally. The responsibilities begin much before the passengers embark.

They carry out a pre flight check of emergency equipments, first aid kits, and check that the aircraft and toilets are tidy and seat pocket information is in place. They have to check that sufficient quantities of meals and beverages have been provided on board by catering in charge of the flight kitchen. Greeting passengers on the aircraft, managing their seating and storage of hand baggage, giving instructions/demonstrations for the use of emergency equipment and serving food and beverages during the flight are routine duties.

They are trained in dealing with ill health of passengers as also flight emergencies which is in fact the real test of their courage and responsibility. After each flight the cabin crew submit a report on medication administered, cabin equipment and stocks, account of duty free items sold etc.

Duty hours often extend into the night, holidays and weekends as flights operate round the clock. The in flight working hours are approximately 75-85 hours per month and ground duty hours spent in preparing for the flight or waiting for delayed flights, may vary but could be almost the same. The crew may be away from their home bases during long distance flights. During this period, the airlines provides them with hotel accommodation and airport allowances to cover meal and miscellaneous expenses. Crew members get off days based on variations in flight schedules.

There is no doubt that the job of crew members is interesting, but it is also extremely demanding, both physically and emotionally. Duties are long and work pressure immense. There may be passengers on board whose demands need to be handled with professional tact and integrity. For those with the right personality and acumen the work is satisfying as well as rewarding. They get lucrative professional benefits.

The job offers them the opportunity to become a regular visitor to some of the region’s and the world’s most exciting cities. They also get discounted travel benefits for themselves and their family members.

Personal Characteristics

An ideal cabin attendant is sociable with a naturally warm and pleasant personality and someone who can meet passengers’ needs through sincere yet professional service. Agility, stamina and good health are vital to attend to the stressful duties for long hours. The job demands accountability hence people who are responsible, calm and hardworking will find work rewarding.

Crew members are expected to have a polite, tactful and confident disposition. The work on board an aircraft demands an ability to work as part of a team. Clear speech, good conversational skills and fluency in English, Hindi, a regional language and a foreign language are required.

Educational eligibility

The national air carriers recruit graduates from all subject streams in the 19-25 years age group for training as air hostesses and flight pursers. Preference is given to degree or diploma holders in hotel management/tourism. Female candidates from the Home science background, fulfilling other requirements, are also preferred. Some private airlines, however, have selected applicants after class XII from the age group of 18-21 years.

International airlines recruit air hostesses from the age group of 18-35 years. Good language ability and proficiency in English, Hindi, a regional language and at least one foreign language are essential requirements for in flight crew members working for national or international carriers. Some foreign airlines give weightage to previous customer service experience. They also give preference to candidates who are fluent in the language of the region for which they are making recruitment's e.g. an airline operating in the South East Asian region would give preference to a candidate with some knowledge of a language of the region.

Physical requirements

For air hostesses a minimum height of 157.5 cm and for Flight pursers a minimum height of 163 cm has been laid down. Proportionate weight is also desirable. Normal eyesight without glasses or a minimum of uncorrected distant vision of 6.4 is acceptable.

Selection/Training

While most airlines maintain data banks of prospective candidates suitable for recruitment as cabin crew, the vacancies are generally advertised from time to time. The process of selection followed by national carriers is slightly different from that of international carriers. The former, after careful scrutiny of applications, call candidates for a written test comprising of general knowledge, mental ability and verbal ability. This is followed by an interview and group discussion.

International airlines on the other hand conduct a preliminary interview during which the measurement of height and weight of the applicants is also checked. Candidates have to then take a written test which is a test of general knowledge, mental ability, language ability (including vocabulary, listening, reading, speaking tests for Hindi and English). This is followed by the main interview. During this the candidate’s language fluency, diction, voice, communication skill, personality and reaction to adverse situations is assessed.

Candidates are expected to have good knowledge of the aviation industry. Selected candidates are trained by the airline. Each airline has a training schedule for the freshly recruited in flight staff and this is carried out at their exclusive training centres or by agencies appointed by them. Air India trains its cabin crew at Mumbai while Indian Airlines has its training centre at Hyderabad. International airlines send the recruited candidates to their headquarters where the training is carried out over a span of a few weeks.

During the training, recruits are taught technical, safety and interpersonal skills. They are familiarised with the aviation technicalities as well as about the destinations they are expected to be flying on. Food and beverage service, emergency management and first aid comprise the practical part of training. Most of the practical training including flight safety exercises are carried out in mock aircraft cabins. The training generally lasts for six to seven weeks after which flight trainees are assigned to work in the economy class during which time they also participate in progressive training and development to enhance their in flight skills.

Cabin crew of national carriers serve the airlines till the age of fifty eight years and in the in flight division can become deputy general managers. With experience they become supervisors and assign and oversee the work of junior cabin crew members. Most airlines allow crew members to opt for training and supervisory positions after they have the required experience.

What lures young people to this profession is most evidently the glamour of air travel as also the lifestyle. It is true that the pay scales are attractive and the perks and allowances alluring. International carriers pay almost three times as much as national airlines. Besides attractive perks you get free air tickets for yourself and your family for travelling on the routes your airline covers.

With international airlines you get the opportunity to see the world both at leisure and on duty. But to remind the aspirant all this comes along with tremendous toil. The long flights will keep you on your toes for hours on end, short journeys will demand brisk service, some passengers may demand constant care and of course you will face the challenge of making the journey comfortable for some irate passengers too. It is certainly going to be a challenge to be polite, gentle and gracious on every flight you serve. There is no place for self pity or praise for it is your duty to make the journey memorable for guests on board and each day offers fresh challenge.

Commercial Aviation - Study and Training

Commercial Pilot Training

Licence for flying is essential to become a commercial pilot. The licences have to be procured in the following order :

-- Student Pilot Licence (SPL)

-- Private Pilot Licence (PPL)

-- Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL)

Student pilot licence -

This is an Examination conducted by flying clubs in every State and covers papers in Air Regulations, Aviation Meteorology, Air Navigation, Air Technical. It is a theory exam.

Eligibility - Age of 16 years minimum and pass in Class X. A medical certificate of fitness, security clearance and a bank guarantee is required.

Selection - Candidates taking the SPL test have to appear in an oral examination on a fixed day every month. Candidates have to enroll a month before the examination. Selected candidates go through a medical test. Air Force Central Medical Establishment (AFCME), Subroto Park, New Delhi and Institute of Aviation Medicine (IAM), Vimanpura Bangalore, are the final authorities for medical fitness. After medical clearance the candidate gets the SPL.Candidates are also required to pass the Pilot Aptitude Test.

Private pilot licence -

After getting the SPL the candidate proceeds for initial flying training. This is a dual flight, where the instructor or trainer accompanies the learner to teach him the practical aspects of flying. Then the candidate gets his first flight normally after about 15 hours of dual flying. This includes cross country flying. A total of 60 hours of flying is needed of which 20 hours minimum should be solo and 5 hours cross country. The training schedule for PPL extends over 6 months.

Theory Exam - There is a theory examination also, the subjects are : Air Regulations, Aviation Meteorology, Air Navigation, Aircraft Engines, Seamanship.

Eligibility - 10+2 and medical fitness certificate from AFCME or IAM. The age requirement is 17 years.

Fees - Flying training is costly. Fees has increased over the years. Approximately Rs.3 to 4 lakhs are charged for the training. Some States do subsidize the rates for residents of the states. This fee may be revised from time to time.

Commercial pilot licence - A student can get the CPL after PPL by doing his flying training for 190 hours to complete 250 hours of flying. The training is for 15 months. SPL holders who are 18 years and have passed Class XII with Phy, Chem and Maths can directly go for CPL.

Training facilities are available with Flying Clubs in India, Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Uran Academy, Raibareilly, UP, Private Academies in India or Flying School in USA or Europe, Australia, Gulf, etc.

Educational eligibility - XII with Physics and Maths. Current PPL licence with flying experience in the last 3 years.

Age - 18 years to 30 years

Medical fitness - As granted by AFCME, New Delhi/IAM, Bangalore.

Written examination - A written examination in the following subjects is needed for getting the CPL: Air Regulations, Aviation Meteorology, Air Navigation, Technical, Planning. These examinations are conducted by Flying Clubs 6 times a year.

Actual flying experience required - 250 hours of total flying time (150 hours of solo, 25 hours of cross country, 10 hours of instrument flying, 5 hours of night flying).

Further growth - CPL licence and training on a particular aircraft leads to a co-pilots assignment. Promotion depends on flying experience and vacancies. Co pilots must have the required number of flying hours and licence. A pilot undergoes a never ending process of training. Proficiency tests have to be cleared almost thrice a year or more depending on the licence category and age of the pilot. The highest in the category of licences is the Air Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) which allows the pilot to fly any type of aircraft. This requires 1500 clocked hours of flying.Licence has to be constantly renewed through passing medical and other tests every six months. A commercial pilot becomes a senior commercial pilot upon upgrading his flying hours.

Training of helicopter pilots

Helicopter pilots need to have Commercial Helicopter Pilots Licence (CHPL). This licence can be acquired in two stages. The private helicopter pilots licence (PHPL) is granted after 40 hours of flying training (15 hours should be solo) and on clearing a written examination of aviation subjects. 60 hours of flying training has to be completed and a written examination has to be cleared. Helicopter Pilots find employment with commercial organisations, Public Sector organisations and other security/protective agencies.

Medical fitness of pilots

Medical fitness is essential for this profession. To get a licence every pilot has to get a medical fitness certificate from AFCME, New Delhi 110010 or IAM, Vimanpura, Bangalore 560010, who are the authorities issuing medical fitness certificate for the issue of pilots licence. Students who wish to become pilots can get their medical fitness evaluated by these institutes before deciding upon this career. The DGCA rules are firm on medical fitness and every pilot must fulfill the medical fitness requirement as per DGCA rules.

Courses and Institutions

Training in commercial flying can be taken with Flying clubs, the Rashtriya Udan Academy, Private Flying academies or with Flying schools abroad.

Training for CPL at Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Uran Academy (IGRUA) www.igrua.gov.in

The Academy is located at Fursatgung Airfield, Raebareli 229302 and this is the only Government run Academy for giving training for CPL.

Course 1 – This Institute trains pilots for commercial pilot’s licence (PPL to CPL in 1 1/2

years )and the trainees also study for a BSc Aviation degree and get multi engine (turbo prop) endorsement and instrument rating for future employment with the national carriers or air taxi operators. The licence is issued by DGCA.

Course 2 – The Academy has started the Ab-initio to CPL course ( 2 years for non PPL holders)& BSc (3 years)giving 250 hours of flying for CPL with multi engine endorsement on King Air C-90A and instrument Rating on Single/Multi Engine aircraft .

Training - Candidates selected and enrolled at IGRUA are trained by experienced instructors using the most modern training aids like CBT. Flying training of 170 and 230 hours respectively is imparted on TB-20 single engine and multi engine King Air C-90A turbo prop aircraft equipped with modern avionics/instruments like FMS, RNAV, VOR, NDB, Weather Radar, ILS, HSI Flight Director and Auto Pilot. Thorough training is given on simulators of King Air C-90A with 4 axis motion and visual system, TB-20 cockpit procedure trainer and C-90A touch pad trainer.

Eligibility - Course (1) – 10+2 with Physics and Maths. Indian private pilots licence holders with flying experience of 60 hours minimum including 30 hours solo taken in the last 3 years .

Eligibility - Course (2) – 10+2 with Maths & Physics minimum 55% (50% for SC/ST)and English as a main subject. Candidates with higher degrees get 5% relaxation.

Age - 17 years

Selection - Course (1) – An entrance examination is held by the Academy in Aviation subjects (PPL standard) and there is an intelligence test followed by Pilot Aptitude Test. Short listed candidates are interviewed by a board. Selection is based on the performance in both the written test and interview.

Course (2) – Entrance Test has General English, Maths, Physics, and Reasoning (10+2 level)

Course - B.Sc (Aviation) Degree - IGRUA is the only Institute in India to introduce Degree in Science (Aviation) from CSJM University, Kanpur along with CPL course, subject to successful completion of the prescribed syllabus on aviation subjects, flying practical and project work within the stipulated time frame of minimum 3 years.

Duration - 18 months for issue of CPL and 3 years for B.Sc.(Aviation degree).

Scholarships - The following scholarships are awarded each year :

-- JRD Tata Trust Scholarship of Rs. 15 Lakhs on merit-cum-means basis shared between a few students (optional).

-- SC/ST IGRUA scholarship of 50% of Training Fee to 20% of the trainees on merit whose parents total income is less than Rs. 1.00 lakhs.

Fees for training - Highly subsidised fee of 3.30 lac for PPL and Rs.15 lakhs for CPL is payable in four equal instalments in advance. Fee for B.Sc. (Aviation) as per CSJM University rules (approx Rs. 2000/- per year). Boarding and lodging charges are extra. Fees may be revised from time to time.

Adv. – May Application Deadline – Oct/Nov. Course begins in January.

Flying clubs imparting pilot’s training (India)

SPL, PPL and CPL training can be completed from flying schools. While they give training, placement is not their responsibility.

Flying training scholarships for SC/ST candidates

Scheme for award of scholarships/stipend to the scheduled caste and scheduled tribe candidates selected for flying training up to private pilots licence (PPL) standard in various flying clubs/institutes/schools is as follows :

Eligibility - 10+2 with maths and physics as subjects.

Age - 17 - 20 years as in August of the year of entry.

Income - Parents/Guardians income should not exceed Rs 44,500 p.a.

Training charges - Flying training charges up to PPL are met by the Government

Living Expenses - Rs 350 per month for male candidates and Rs 450 per month for female candidates restricted for a maximum period of 15 months.

Books - Rs 100 per annum for purchase of books.

Licence and medical examination fees - Expenditure will be borne by the govt.

Insurance premium - Up to the policy value of Rs 1000 per annum will be paid by govt.

Travelling expenses - One single second class fare at the time of reporting for flying training.

Period of scholarships - The total period of training will be 15 months (from the date of joining) for the period actually spent to obtain a PPL whichever is earlier.

Training institutions - In approved flying clubs/institutes to be selected by the Director General of Civil Aviation. A choice may be given by the candidate.

Number of scholarships and selections - 40 (Forty). Initial selection of the candidates will be on the basis of their performance in written test to be conducted at the specified centres in English, General Knowledge, Maths, Physics and Chemistry. (Details are subject to revision)

Helicopter pilot’s training

Rotary Wing Academy, Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd, PB No.1790, Vimanapura, Bangalore - 560017.

Courses -

-- Commercial Pilots Licence on Helicopter (CHPL)

-- Private Pilot Licence on Helicopter (PHPL)

These courses are duly recognised by Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), ministry of Civil aviation, Govt. of lndia. The academy conducts classes on ground subjects and flying training leading to DGCA examinations conducted periodically. On passing the ground subjects and the flying test, the candidates are awarded Commercial Pilots Licence on Helicopter (CHPL) or Private Pilot License on Helicopter (PHPL), as applicable.

Duration : CHPL is a 18-months course/150 hours of flying time Fees : Rs 10 lakh approximately.

PHPL is only a 9-months course/ 40 hours of flying Fees : Rs. 4 lakh approx.

Eligibility: CHPL: 10+2 or equivalent with Maths & Physics; PHPL: SSLC/Age not less than 18 yrs.

Training : About 14 pilots are trained in a batch. Training consists of ground subjects and flying.

International Flying Schools

Indian Aviation training sector faces limitations causing delay in training programmes. Shortages of air crafts and trainers, non serviceability of aircraft have been the major reasons for students to opt for training abroad.

The training costs are high particularly in the US, UK and Australia.In choosing a training institution one needs to be careful about the training standards and the transferability of foreign training to meet DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) regulations. Students training abroad must pass a flight test and a composite theory examination, test of air regulation conducted by DGCA on return to India.

Flying Schools in the Gulf -

In the Gulf, Emirates flying school, (P O Box 7624 Dubai UAE) opened in 1989 in the East terminal building of Dubai International Airport. The school is certified by the Ministry of communications, UAE.

Training -

Training is on US built Piper Cherokee single engine, 4 seater aircraft. 40 hours of flying with 35 hours of ground lessons lead to UAE (PPL) which is internationally recognized.

Duration - Full time - 3-4 months. Part time - 9 months.

Test - To qualify candidates have to pass a written exam in subjects such as radio telephony, Air law, Navigation, Meteorology and Aeroplanes before taking a flight test after a minimum of 40 flying hours. Flying training is of 40 hours, 10 hours solo, 5 hours cross country.

Costs over 20,000 Dh. The training entitles you to fly single engine air crafts (up to 5700 Kg) worldwide, with passengers in visual, meteorological conditions.

Flying Schools in the US -

The US has hundreds of FAA approved schools where a student can acquire the DGCA stipulated flight and theoretical training in a matter of five to seven months. Following the training students take a test covering all the relevant subjects. In 6-8 months a student becomes a CPL holder. On his return home the DGCA simply converts his FAA licence into its own CPL after a written exam.