Republic Airways to start aviation school in Indianapolis

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — A new commercial pilot school is coming to Indianapolis International Airport.

Gov. Eric Holcomb and regional carrier Republic Airways announced Thursday that the school will train hundreds of aviation professionals each year.

The Indianapolis-based company hopes it will lead to 600 new, full-time jobs with the company in Indiana by 2028. That includes pilots, mechanics, IT workers and other professionals. The state of Indiana plans to offer the company up to $4 million in training grants and tuition assistance among other tax abatements in the coming years.

The company says the school would be able to train 400 students annually and help address a need of pilots.

Republic Airways emerged from its 2016 bankruptcy protection last year. It has cited a pilot shortage that forced it to ground flights.