Emirates has announced that it has teamed up with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and Airbus to launch an enhanced Competency-Based Training and Assessment (CBTA) program for the A350 aircraft type rating, as the airline prepares for the delivery of 65 A350s from mid-2024.
According to Emirates, the advanced pilot training programme uses CBTA training methodology that combines IATA’s principles and documentation, the carrier’s operational expertise and resources, and Airbus’ CBTA training experience on the A350 that spans over 10 years.
The airline has said that an initial batch of 256 pilots will be trained as part of the new course at Emirates’ Training college in Dubai, starting from July 2024. The program will run in two phases, including 20 days of simulator training and evaluation over 15 separate sessions.
The A350 CBTA program is driven by pilot competency and behavior, using the CBTA training philosophy to enable instructors to assess the pilots during training and seek immediate improvements in their performance.
The program is one of the ways in which Emirates is gearing up for the entry of its new A350 into service. Other departments within the airline are also preparing for the debut of A350 operations, including their Service Delivery and Engineering teams.
“The tailored CBTA programme for the A350 supports the integration of the new aircraft to be inducted into our fleet, with 1,000 pilots set to complete the A350 type rating course,” Capt. Bader Al Marzooqi, Emirates’ Senior Vice President, Flight Training said in a statement.
“This latest initiative is part of Emirates’ commitment to deliver the highest standards of service and comfort while supporting our operational growth and expansion,” Al Maqzooqi added.
Capt. Stéphan Labrucherie, Airbus Head of Flight Training Worldwide said: “Our partnership with IATA and Emirates ensures that Emirates’ pilots receive the most comprehensive and effective training, supporting the smooth entry into service of the A350 worldwide.”
