Indonesian Air Force Recruits Civilian Pilots to Become Helicopter and Transport Aircraft Pilots

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Air Force, Air Marshal TNI Mohamad Tonny Harjono, stated that his organisation is recruiting civilian pilots to become pilots of TNI AU transport aircraft and helicopters. “So, it is true that there are now 31 civilian pilots, sourced from civilian pilots, whom we have recruited to become Air Force pilots. We are focusing them on becoming pilots of transport aircraft or helicopter pilots,” said Tonny during a press conference at TNI AU Headquarters in Cilangkap, East Jakarta, on Thursday. Tonny explained that this is being done to strengthen the quality of TNI AU’s human resources, particularly in the field of pilots. The recruitment programme is also part of TNI AU’s efforts to open opportunities for civilian pilots who wish to serve the nation. Tonny elaborated that the 31 civilian pilots were recruited from flying schools that have partnered with TNI AU. These pilots then undergo adaptation and standardisation training by TNI AU at Adisutjipto Air Base in Yogyakarta. “This standardisation means that we have the same standards at the same level. We also require them to have the attitude and skills equivalent to Air Force pilots,” said Tonny. His side is also working to revise the syllabus so that the educational material provided to civilian pilot participants aligns with TNI AU standards. After the training process, the pilots are then assigned to TNI AU squadrons that need them. With this programme, Tonny hopes that TNI AU can produce high-quality pilots ready to defend the nation. “We hope to get young pilots with the skills that we can further develop to become even better,” said Tonny.