Emirates, Airbus And IATA Unite For A350 Pilot Training Ahead Of 2024 Deliveries

The International Air Transport Association (IATA), Emirates, and Airbus have collaborated to launch a Competency-Based Training and Assessment (CBTA) programme for the Airbus A350 type rating. This initiative comes as Emirates prepares to receive its fleet of 65 A350s starting mid-2024. The first group of 256 pilots will begin their training at Emirates’ training college in Dubai from July 2024.

This collaboration leverages the unique strengths of each organisation. IATA will focus on programme design, utilising its published guidance for CBTA. Airbus will contribute its extensive knowledge of the A350 aircraft and its own CBTA experience. Emirates will bring its operational and CBTA training expertise to the table.

The programme aims to deliver the first A350 type rating training fully aligned with the latest International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards for CBTA training. It also incorporates best practices from the IATA CBTA Guide for Flight Crew Training.

"Combining the expertise of Emirates, Airbus, and IATA to design and deliver A350 type rating training is a unique opportunity. Our joint aim is to fully utilise the benefits of CBTA to qualify the pilots on the A350 in the most efficient and effective way possible," said Nick Careen, IATA’s SVP for Operations, Safety and Security.

Capt. Bader Al Marzooqi, Emirates’ Senior Vice President, Flight Training, commented, "Emirates uses advanced training programmes so our pilots are among the most competent flight crew in the world. The tailored CBTA programme for the A350 supports the integration of 65 new A350 aircraft, with 1,000 pilots set to complete the A350 Type Rating course."

Capt. Stéphan Labrucherie, Airbus Head of Flight Training Worldwide, added, "The A350 is a state-of-the-art aircraft, which requires equally advanced training solutions. Our partnership with IATA and Emirates ensures that Emirates pilots receive the most comprehensive and effective training."

Programme Details

The new CBTA programme aims to enhance passenger safety and comfort by ensuring that pilots are trained to the highest standards. The collaboration between IATA, Emirates, and Airbus is expected to provide valuable experience that can strengthen other training activities within these organisations.

This initiative underscores Emirates' commitment to maintaining high service standards as it integrates 65 new A350 aircraft into its fleet. The programme also supports the smooth entry into service of the A350 worldwide.

Future Prospects

The first cohort of pilots will begin their training in July 2024 at Emirates’ training college in Dubai. This marks a significant step in preparing for the delivery of 65 A350s from mid-2024. The collaboration between IATA, Emirates, and Airbus aims to set a new standard in pilot training through this comprehensive CBTA programme.

With inputs from WAM