Emirates, Airbus & IATA Collaboration for Training on A350

7 months ago Editor

Emirates, Airbus, and IATA join forces to deliver cutting-edge CBTA training for the new A350 fleet, setting a new standard in pilot qualification.

Emirates, Airbus, and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) have announced a groundbreaking collaboration to deliver a Competency-Based Training and Assessment (CBTA) program for the Airbus A350 type rating. This initiative is in anticipation of Emirates’ forthcoming fleet of 65 A350s, set to arrive from mid-2024.

The first cohort, comprising 256 pilots, will commence training at Emirates’ Training College in Dubai starting July 2024. The program leverages the expertise of the three aviation leaders: IATA’s CBTA program design, Airbus’s aircraft-specific knowledge and CBTA experience, and Emirates’ operational and training expertise.

This collaboration marks the inaugural A350 type rating training aligned with the latest International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards and IATA’s CBTA Guide for Flight Crew Training.

Nick Careen, IATA’s SVP for Operations, Safety, and Security, emphasized the uniqueness of the collaboration, noting its potential to enhance training efficiency and effectiveness. Capt. Bader Al Marzooqi, Emirates’ SVP for Flight Training, highlighted the program’s role in integrating 65 new A350 aircraft and training 1,000 pilots, thereby enhancing safety and service standards. Capt. Stéphan Labrucherie, Airbus Head of Flight Training Worldwide, underscored the advanced nature of the A350 and the necessity for equally sophisticated training solutions.