IndiGo Adds 1,000 Pilots in Two Years, Surpasses Air India Group

IndiGo Airlines, India’s largest low-cost carrier, has significantly expanded its cockpit workforce, recruiting over 1,000 pilots in just two years. As of the end of FY25, IndiGo’s total pilot count reached 5,456—surpassing the combined strength of Air India and Air India Express, which stands at 5,449.

This milestone reflects IndiGo’s dominant position in both domestic and international aviation markets, and its strategic response to rising passenger demand and an industry-wide pilot shortage.

Fleet Expansion and Operational Reliability

IndiGo’s hiring spree supports its growing fleet, which now includes 434 aircraft. The airline’s aggressive recruitment over FY24 and FY25 ensures operational reliability as it continues to induct new aircraft and expand routes.

This proactive approach contrasts with disruptions faced by other carriers, such as Akasa Air, which experienced pilot resignations and flight cancellations in late 2024. IndiGo’s strategy not only supports internal growth but also helps buffer against broader talent shortages affecting Indian aviation.

Surge in Passenger Traffic Fuels Demand

India’s air travel sector has rebounded strongly post-pandemic. In FY25, domestic passenger traffic reached 165 million—up 17 percent from pre-COVID FY20 levels. International travel also surged, rising 49 percent to 34 million passengers compared to 23 million in FY20.

To meet this demand, airlines have ramped up hiring across roles. IndiGo’s cabin crew strength crossed 10,212 by FY25, and the airline has over 920 aircraft on order, including Airbus A321XLRs (expected in FY26) and A350s (due in 2027) for long-haul operations.

Commitment to Gender Diversity

IndiGo is also leading the way in gender diversity. With 16 percent of its pilots being women—three times the global average—the airline is on track to reach 1,000 female pilots by 2025.

In a symbolic gesture, IndiGo celebrated India’s 77th Independence Day by onboarding 77 female pilots, reinforcing its commitment to inclusivity in aviation.

Financial Performance and Industry Comparison

Despite a tight labor market, IndiGo posted a profit after tax of ₹7,258 crore (US$836.85 million) for FY25, marking its second consecutive profitable year.

In contrast, Air India reported a loss of ₹10,859 crore (US$1.25 billion), while Akasa Air anticipates a deeper loss than its FY24 figure of ₹1,670 crore (US$192.55 million). SpiceJet returned to profitability with ₹48 crore (US$5.53 million) in FY25 after seven years of losses.

Although the issuance of Commercial Pilot Licenses (CPLs) declined 17 percent in 2024 to 1,342 from 1,622 in 2023, government data suggests there is no immediate shortage of trained pilots. However, the long-term outlook is clear: India will need approximately 21,500 pilots by 2034.

Related News: https://airguide.info/?s=IndiGo

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, aviationa2z.com