SDA Bocconi IMB Admissions 2026
Offers full-time PGP in International Master in business (IMB) Equivalent to MBA under following specializations Marketing, HR, Operations, and many more
An MBA in Airline and Airport Management is increasingly valuable as the aviation industry grows rapidly, creating high demand for professionals who understand both the technical and business aspects of airports and airlines. An MBA in Airport and Airline Management teaches you how to manage airports and airlines efficiently, understand aviation safety, operations, and regulations, and make smart business decisions in a fast-growing industry.
If students are interested in aviation and want to work in management roles in airports, airlines, or aviation companies, this programme is a great option. In this article, we will explain everything aspirants need to know, such as course details, fees, syllabus, top colleges, job scope, and salary.
An MBA in Airport and Airline Management is a two-year postgraduate programme. It teaches students about both business and aviation. The course prepares students for leadership jobs in airports, airlines, cargo services, and aviation consultancy firms. Whether students want to manage airport operations or help airlines grow, this MBA gives them the right skills.
Offers full-time PGP in International Master in business (IMB) Equivalent to MBA under following specializations Marketing, HR, Operations, and many more
Ranked No. 3 Business School in India and no.35 in world by Financial Times MiM 2025 Ranking | Highest CTC: INR 89 LPA
Particulars | Values |
---|---|
Degree Name | MBA in Airport and Airline Management |
Degree Type | Postgraduate |
Degree Duration | Two Years |
Entrance Exams | CAT, MAT, or State-Specific Exams |
Eligibility Criteria | Bachelor’s Degree |
Admission Process | Based on the Entrance Exams or the Interview |
Fees (Tentative) | Rs. 1 Lakhs to Rs. 20 Lakhs |
Job Profiles | Airport Manager, Cargo Manager, Aviation Safety Officer |
Average Salary | Rs. 3- Rs. 15 LPA |
Top Recruiters | IndiGo, Airports Authority of India (AAI), Air India SATS, Blue Dart Aviation |
To get admission in this MBA programme, candidates must meet certain academic and entrance exam requirements. Criteria may vary slightly depending on the college. If students are applying for distance education, the process is often easier and may not require an entrance exam. To apply for this programme, candidates require:
Particulars | Values |
---|---|
Educational Qualification | Bachelor’s degree in any stream from a recognised university |
Minimum Marks | At least 50% marks in graduation (may vary depending on the college) |
Entrance Exams (Regular MBA) | CAT / MAT / XAT / CMAT / University-level entrance test |
Additional Rounds (Some Colleges) | Group Discussion (GD) + Personal Interview (PI) |
For Distance Education | No entrance exams are required |
Age Limit | No age limit, but some colleges may prefer younger applicants |
Work Experience | Not mandatory, but can be an advantage for distance learning applicants |
The admission process for an MBA in Airport and Airline Management typically follows a standard MBA admission format, though some specifics may vary depending on the university or institute. Here is a general overview:
Eligibility Criteria
Bachelor’s Degree: Minimum 50% aggregate (45% for reserved categories) in any discipline from a recognised university.
Age Limit: Usually no age limit, though some private institutions may have preferences.
Entrance Exams: Many colleges require scores from entrance exams such as: CAT / MAT / XAT / CMAT / ATMA / GMAT
Some institutes have their own entrance tests or direct admission based on academic records.
Entrance Exam (if applicable)
National Level Exams: Candidates apply and sit for exams such as CAT, MAT, or CMAT.
Institutional Exams: Some institutes, such as Galgotias University or private aviation schools, may conduct their own entrance test.
Cutoff Scores: Institutes release cutoff scores for shortlisting.
Application Process
Online/Offline Applications: Available through the official website of the college or university.
Documents Required: Mark sheets (10th, 12th, Graduation), Entrance exam scorecard, ID proof (Aadhar, Passport), Passport-size photographs
Group Discussion (GD) and Personal Interview (PI)- Shortlisted candidates based on entrance scores or merit will be called for:
Group Discussion: To assess communication and teamwork skills.
Personal Interview: To evaluate interest in aviation, career goals, and personality.
Some institutes may also include a Written Ability Test (WAT).
Final Selection- Based on:
Entrance exam score (if applicable)
Academic performance
GD/PI/WAT performance
Work experience (if any)
Extra-curricular activities (sometimes)
Admission Offer and Fee Payment
Selected candidates receive offer letters.
Pay admission/confirmation fees and complete documentation.
Attend orientation and start the programme.
Direct Admission Option
Some private institutions and aviation academies (such as Kasturi Institute or UFly International) offer direct admission based on graduation marks and a personal interview, often without the need for entrance exam scores.
These exams are widely accepted by universities and colleges offering specialised aviation or airline management programmes. Some universities and aviation institutes conduct their own tests or take direct admissions:
Exams | Frequency | Accepted By |
---|---|---|
CAT | Yearly | IIMs, IITs, top B-schools |
MAT | Quarterly | 600+ colleges, including aviation |
XAT | Yearly | XLRI, others |
CMAT | Yearly | AICTE-approved colleges |
GMAT | On demand | ISB, international colleges |
ATMA | 3-4 times/year | Private institutes |
The cut-off scores for MBA programmes in Airport and Airline Management vary based on the institution and the entrance exams. Cut-off scores can vary annually based on the applications and institutional requirements. It is advisable to check the official websites of the respective institutions for the most current admission criteria. Some institutions have their own criteria or accept specific entrance exam scores.
Exam Name | Cut-Off |
---|---|
CAT (Common Admission Test) | |
MAT (Management Aptitude Test) | |
XAT (Xavier Aptitude Test) | |
CMAT (Common Management Admission Test) | |
GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) | |
ATMA Cut-off |
The MBA in Airport and Airline Management is offered in various modes to cater to different types of students and working professionals. Here are the main modes of study available:
Mode | Duration |
---|---|
Full-Time MBA | 2 years |
Part-Time MBA | 2-3 years |
Online MBA | 1.5-2 years |
Distance MBA | 2-3 years |
Executive MBA (EMBA) | 1.5-2 years |
MBA in Airport and Airline Management is a two-year postgraduate course. It teaches students how to manage airport and airline businesses. Along with normal management subjects, candidates also learn special topics such as airport planning, airline operations, aviation safety, and air cargo management.
The course is divided into four semesters and includes theory classes, practical training, projects, and internships with airlines or airports. This helps students gain real industry experience. Here is what students typically study across four semesters: these are general subjects.
Core Subjects:
Principles of Management and Organisational Behaviour
Airport Planning and Management
Airline Economics
Aviation Law and Air Regulations
Airport and Airline Marketing
Airline Operations and Scheduling
Financial Management
Aviation Safety and Security
Strategic Management in Aviation
Cargo and Logistics Management
Electives / Specialised Modules:
Aviation HR Management
Customer Relationship Management
Aircraft Maintenance Management
Risk and Crisis Management in Aviation
Project + Internship:
Almost all colleges include a final-semester project and an internship with an airport, airline, or aviation service provider.
Pursuing an MBA in Airport and Airline Management in India offers a range of options with varying fee structures. When considering these programmes, it is essential to factor in additional costs such as hostel fees, admission charges, and any optional international internships. Many institutions also offer scholarships based on academic performance, entrance exam scores, or financial need. MBA in Airport and Airline Management fee range between Rs. 1 Lakh to Rs. 20 Lakhs.
This MBA opens doors to a wide range of job roles in the aviation industry. After completing this course, students have several good job opportunities in the aviation industry, both in India and other countries. The course prepares students for different roles in airports, airlines, cargo, ground handling, and even aviation consulting.
Candidates can work in jobs related to airport operations, airline scheduling, passenger services, aviation safety, cargo management, and more. With experience, candidates can progress to senior management positions and earn high salaries.
Job Role | Industry | Average Salary |
---|---|---|
Airport Manager | AAI, GMR, Adani | Rs. 9.7 Lakhs |
Airline Operations Manager | IndiGo, Vistara, Air India, Emirates | Rs. 16 Lakhs |
Ground Handling Manager | Celebi, Air India SATS | Rs. 5.8 Lakhs |
Aviation Safety Officer | Airports, airlines, and aviation consulting firms | Rs. 4.8 Lakhs |
Cargo and Logistics Manager | Blue Dart, DHL, and airport cargo units | Rs. 6.4 Lakhs |
Route Planning Analyst | Airline companies and aviation data firms | Rs. 13.5 Lakhs |
Customer Service Manager (Aviation) | Airports, airlines, and airport lounges | Rs. 6 Lakhs |
(Salary source- ambition box)
Here is a detailed and easy-to-understand table of salary expectations after completing an MBA in Airline and Airport Management. Salaries vary by location, company, skills, and certifications. Experience and industry exposure during internships greatly influence salary.
Job Role | Average Salary |
---|---|
Airport Manager | Rs. 9.7 Lakhs |
Airline Operations Manager | Rs. 16 Lakhs |
Ground Handling Manager | Rs. 5.8 Lakhs |
Aviation Safety Officer | Rs. 4.8 Lakhs |
Cargo and Logistics Manager | Rs. 6.4 Lakhs |
Route Planning Analyst | Rs. 13.5 Lakhs |
Customer Service Manager (Aviation) | Rs. 6 Lakhs |
IndiGo
Airports Authority of India (AAI)
Air India SATS,
Blue Dart Aviation
Reliance Airport Retail
DHL Express
Adani Airports
Distance MBAs in Airport Management are a flexible option if candidates are working or are unable to attend a full-time programme. Distance education is best for working professionals or students who can not attend a regular college. In distance education, the study mode is online, through video recordings and self-study materials. But there are a couple of factors that a student needs to factor in:
Pros of Distance MBA | Cons of Distance MBA |
Flexible Learning Pace | Less Practical Exposure |
Affordable Fees | Limited Campus Placements |
Ideal for Working People | Needs Self-Motivation |
Although these terms sound similar and are closely related, all three fields are part of the aviation industry, and each one focuses on a different area. Aviation Management covers the entire aviation sector, including airports, airlines, cargo, and safety.
Airport Management deals specifically with how airports are managed, including terminal operations, ground services, and passenger handling. Airline Management focuses on airline companies managing flights, ticketing, crew, and route planning.
An MBA in Aviation Management gives students overall knowledge of the aviation industry, including airports, airlines, cargo, safety, and international aviation rules. This course prepares students for leadership roles where they manage different parts of the aviation business. It is ideal for students who want more career flexibility across the aviation sector.
Particulars | Details |
---|---|
Scope | Broad includes airports, airlines, cargo, aviation law, safety, |
Main Focus | Managing overall aviation operations and business strategies |
What candidates Learn | Aviation safety, international aviation law, business planning, logistics |
Job Roles | Aviation Consultant, Safety Officer, Aviation Analyst, Policy Planner |
Who Should Choose | Students who want a wide range of career options in the aviation industry |
Workplaces | Airports, airlines, cargo firms, aviation tech companies, and government agencies |
An MBA in Airport Management focuses on how to run an airport smoothly and safely. Candidates will learn about terminal operations, ground handling, customer service, and airport safety. This course is perfect if candidates want to work at airports and manage their day-to-day operations.
Particulars | Details |
---|---|
Scope | Specifically focuses only on airport operations and administration |
Main Focus | Managing the day-to-day functioning of an airport |
What candidates Learn | Terminal operations, ground handling, airport security, and passenger services |
Job Roles | Airport Manager, Terminal Supervisor, Ground Handling Manager, Duty Manager |
Who Should Choose | Students interested in running and managing airport systems and facilities |
Workplaces | Airports (AAI, GMR, Adani, BIAL), ground service providers, and retail companies |
An MBA in Airline Management trains students to work directly with airlines. It covers flight scheduling, ticket pricing, crew planning, airline marketing, and route planning. If students are interested in working with airlines such as IndiGo, Air India, or Emirates, this is the right course for them.
Particulars | Details |
---|---|
Scope | Specifically focuses on managing the airline business and operations |
Main Focus | Running airline companies efficiently |
What candidates Learn | Airline marketing, fleet management, ticket pricing, flight scheduling |
Job Roles | Airline Operations Manager, Revenue Analyst, Crew Scheduler, Route Planner |
Who Should Choose | Students who want to work directly with airline companies |
Workplaces | Airlines (IndiGo, Air India, Emirates, Vistara), airline consultancies |
Many colleges offer an MBA in Airport and Airline Management, including private institutes, government universities, and distance learning options. The course fees depend on the type of college, location, facilities, and whether it is regular or distance education. Here are some of the best-known colleges offering this programme:
Colleges | Fees |
---|---|
Nehru College of Aeronautics and Applied Sciences, Coimbatore | - |
- | |
Rs. 19.19 Lakhs | |
Rs. 4 Lakhs | |
Rs. 1 Lakhs | |
Rs. 2.20 Lakhs |
If candidates are passionate about aviation and want to be at the heart of airport operations, airline strategies, or aviation logistics, then yes, this is the right course. It combines candidates' love for flying with real-world business acumen.
Candidates need to choose the right college, stay updated with aviation trends, and pursue relevant internships or certifications to boost their profile.
On Question asked by student community
Yes, MBA in FinTech is a good option if you are interested in the combination of finance and technology. After this course you can work in roles like FinTech product manager, financial analyst, blockchain/crypto specialist, risk & compliance manager, or business development manager in banks, startups, and financial companies.
For the salary part, freshers usually start with around 5–10 LPA in normal companies and in bigger FinTech firms or banks it can even go up to 10–15 LPA, depending on your skills, college, and location.
If you do Data Science and then an MBA in Finance, you can get many high-paying jobs. Some of the best options are:
1. CFO (Chief Financial Officer) – You manage a company’s finances, budgeting, and reports. Big companies pay 40 lakh to 1 crore per year.
2. Investment Banker – You help clients raise money and do mergers or acquisitions. Salaries start around 10–12 lakh for freshers and can go up to 30 lakh or more with experience.
3. Chief Data Officer – You lead data strategies in companies. Pay can be 80 lakh to 1.3 crore per year.
4. Machine Learning Engineer / AI Scientist – You create AI and ML models. Salary is around 35–42 lakh per year.
5. Product Manager – You manage product strategy and market positioning. Can earn 89 lakh to 1.1 crore per year in big tech companies.
6. Financial Actuary – You analyze financial risks. Pay is around 25–30 lakh per year.
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The cut off for national exams like CAT or XAT required for admission for Masters in Business Administration (MBA) program may vary b collage and years. The top tier or top MBA collages like IIMs may require 98-100 percentile. F or more details you can go through: https://bschool.careers360.com/articles/cat-cutoff
Thank you.
Hey! If you are looking for a fully online MBA with minimum fees while staying in Gadchiroli, you can consider a few good options. The most budget-friendly is IGNOU Online/Distance MBA, which comes around 60,000–70,000 for the whole program and is recognized by UGC-DEB. Apart from that, universities like Bharati Vidyapeeth Online (approx 1.6 lakh) and DY Patil Vidyapeeth Online (approx 1.7 lakh) also provide online MBAs with flexible learning and multiple specialisations.
If cost is your main concern, IGNOU is the best choice. But if you want better exposure and placement assistance, then Bharati Vidyapeeth or DY Patil could be good options. Just make sure the course you choose is UGC-approved so that your degree is valid everywhere.
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