FitsAir A320 pilot training is now officially certified in Sri Lanka, allowing the airline to conduct cadet and conversion programs in-house. This milestone aims to strengthen the nation’s aviation expertise and develop a skilled pipeline of pilots.
FitsAir receives A320 pilot training approval, strengthening Sri Lanka’s aviation expertise
FitsAir, a Colombo-based private airline, has officially received certification from the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka as an approved training organization (ATO) for A320 pilot training. This certification enables FitsAir to conduct a wide range of pilot training programs, including Cadet Pilot and Junior First Officer initial training, A320 aircraft type conversion, re-qualification for current and non-current pilots, and A330/A320 cross crew qualification.
The airline confirmed that all training will be carried out using Civil Aviation Authority-approved Airbus A320 Flight Simulation Training Devices. This ensures that pilots gain hands-on experience in a safe, controlled environment, closely replicating real-world flying scenarios.
Ammar Kassim, Executive Director of FitsAir, highlighted the strategic importance of the certification. “By bringing Airbus A320 type training in-house, we enhance training quality, improve operational flexibility, and build a stronger pipeline of skilled pilots for both FitsAir and the wider aviation industry,” he said.
Previously, aspiring pilots and airline crew often had to rely on overseas training facilities, which increased costs and introduced logistical challenges. With this certification, FitsAir can now streamline its training programs locally, reducing dependence on foreign institutions while maintaining international training standards.
The approval is also expected to contribute significantly to Sri Lanka’s aviation sector by providing a reliable, high-standard training facility for future pilots. With regional air travel growing steadily, having local capacity to train pilots ensures the country can meet increasing demand for skilled professionals without importing expertise from abroad.
FitsAir has positioned itself as a key player in the South Asian and Middle Eastern aviation markets. Being the first privately-owned Sri Lankan airline operating extensively in these regions, the company is committed to expanding its operations while investing in human capital. In-house A320 pilot training supports this growth strategy by ensuring a continuous supply of qualified, well-trained pilots.
In addition to operational benefits, the certification enhances the airline’s competitiveness in regional markets. Airlines with dedicated training facilities are better able to adapt to changing regulatory requirements, implement new operational procedures swiftly, and maintain higher safety standards. FitsAir’s in-house training programs are designed to integrate these best practices into everyday operations.
Industry experts note that establishing approved A320 training locally could also attract cadets and pilots from neighboring countries seeking high-quality training at competitive rates. This positions Sri Lanka as a regional hub for advanced pilot education, potentially generating new revenue streams and boosting the national aviation ecosystem.
FitsAir plans to maintain a continuous focus on quality, regularly updating its simulators and training protocols to align with the latest Airbus standards. By doing so, the airline ensures that graduates of its A320 programs are ready to meet the operational requirements of both FitsAir and other carriers worldwide.
The certification represents a milestone for Sri Lanka’s aviation industry, underlining the growing capabilities of private carriers in contributing to national skill development and enhancing regional aviation infrastructure. By nurturing local talent, FitsAir is paving the way for sustainable growth in both commercial and technical aviation sectors.