PUNE: Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol on Monday inaugurated an indigenously developed Airbus A320 flight simulator at Yo Skies Aviation Institute in Baner. The simulator, built entirely by Indian engineers, marks a major step forward in accessible and affordable aviation training.
During the event, Minister Mohol virtually piloted an A320 aircraft from Mumbai Airport using the simulator, describing the experience as “extremely realistic and enjoyable.” He praised the simulator’s advanced capabilities and lauded the efforts of young Indian engineers behind its development.
Yo Skies’ Founder Director Squadron Leader (Retd.) Ajay Paranjape and Director Captain Trupti Karnavat offered an in-depth demonstration of the simulator’s features to dignitaries present.
Several prominent figures from the business and aviation communities attended the event, including businessman Krishnakumar Goyal, JITO Apex President Vijay Bhandari, Badecker Group President Praveen Badecker, JITO Apex Director Rajendra Jain, entrepreneur Rajendra Mutha, and Chakan Industries President Motilal Sankla.
Yo Skies also proposed making simulator-based training mandatory for all student pilots, a suggestion the minister welcomed. “I will certainly consider this seriously,” Mohol said, according to the institute’s official statement.
Addressing the gathering, Goyal emphasized India’s progress in aviation, particularly the increasing participation of women. “It’s a matter of pride that women are now becoming pilots and taking to the skies,” he said, specifically commending Captain Trupti Karnavat.
Echoing the sentiment, Bhandari added, “Captain Karnavat has made the nation proud by flying in the U.S. It’s inspiring to see men supporting her journey. With proper guidance, our youth can achieve the impossible.”
The A320 simulator, developed entirely indigenously, is not only a technological milestone but also a cost-effective alternative—reducing production costs by 75% compared to imported simulators. This makes flight simulation more accessible to aspiring pilots and aviation enthusiasts across India.
