India’s second World Cup winning captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni, posted on his Facebook that he had successfully completed his drone pilot training at a DGCA-approved Remote Pilot Training Organization (RPTO) in Chennai owned by a company where he is investor and brand ambassador.
The man in turmeric yellow, forayed into seeking aviation credentials after completing a rigorous training program, after which he is certified in safe drone operations, combining theoretical ground classes with intensive practical flying sessions on simulators and actual drones. His company named after a bird obviously, runs training centers and over 300 “Centres of Excellence” in collaboration with leading educational institutions. His organisation has trained over 2,500 aspiring pilots under the guidance of its experienced Master Instructors.
Dhoni’s investment in this sector is a few year’s old, even as the drone industry expanded and the demand for skilled and certified pilots rose to ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards. His birdie company holds six DGCA approvals, including the distinction of being the first-ever Indian drone startup to receive dual DGCA certifications for both manufacturing and training, according to the press release.
‘The company has also secured DGCA authorization to conduct drone pilot training across both small and medium categories under 25 kg and above 25 kg MTOW (maximum take off weight)” it said.
His company claims to make affordable, precise, and reliable drone technology accessible across diverse sectors. It also boasts of running a “Train the Trainer” program, equipping instructors with the necessary certifications to mentor the next generation of drone pilots.
The company raised ₹100 crores in its Series B funding round at a $250 million valuation, led by VCATS and the Narotam Sekhseria Family Office.
Dhoni has won an ICC 50 over World Cup in 2011, T20 World Cup in 2007 and ICC Champions Trophy in 2013. He is amongst the one of the most successful captain in Indian cricket and was also known for his helicopter shot.
