Emirates has taken a major step forward by investing around $48 million to enhance pilot and cabin crew training as it prepares to add Airbus A350 aircraft to its fleet. This investment includes a range of high-tech training systems and equipment to ensure that both pilots and cabin crew members are ready to operate the new aircraft with the highest standards of safety and efficiency.
The airline has added three full flight simulators for its upcoming A350 fleet. These simulators include the latest pilot support systems (PSS), which are designed to improve the overall training experience. The system helps trainees complete tasks like interactive flight deck setup, creating flight plans, and reviewing their performance through playback sessions with their instructors.
In addition to the simulators, Emirates has also invested in a fixed-base training device, a cabin emergency evacuation trainer, and a door trainer. These advanced tools provide realistic and immersive environments to prepare the crew for a variety of emergency and operational scenarios.
High-Level Certification
Emirates has received a level D qualification for its first A350 full flight simulator, the highest rating granted by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). This certification was achieved with no issues found during the qualification process. The airline’s second simulator is expected to receive the same qualification in November.
The level D qualification reflects the advanced technology used in the simulator. This ensures that pilots can develop the skills needed for safe and efficient operations. The investment allows Emirates to train pilots more efficiently, while increasing the number of pilots trained each year.
With this new equipment, Emirates can now expand its pilot training capacity by 54%, according to Capt Bader Al Marzooqi, Emirates’ Senior Vice President Flight Training. The new simulators and systems will allow pilots and cabin crew to be well-prepared for any operational challenges they may face. This expansion comes as Emirates prepares to receive 65 A350 aircraft and 205 Boeing 777X aircraft in the coming years.
Emirates currently trains its pilots and cabin crew with in-house, evidence-based training delivered by highly experienced instructors. The airline has already trained 30 pilots and 820 cabin crew members, with more expected to complete their training before the A350 aircraft begin service. By the end of November, over 50 pilots will have finished their training.
Future Expansion
Emirates plans to open a new, ultra-modern pilot training facility later this year. This facility will cover 63,318 square feet and have six simulator bays for the A350 and Boeing 777X aircraft. With the new facility, Emirates will offer 17 full flight simulators across its training centers, providing more than 130,000 training hours each year.
In addition to its new simulators, Emirates also partnered with IATA and Airbus in June to deliver an enhanced Competency-Based Training and Assessment program for the A350 type rating. This collaboration highlights the airline’s dedication to providing the highest level of training for its staff.
The airline’s investment in its training facilities is part of a broader plan to support future growth. With a large number of A350 and Boeing 777X aircraft on order, Emirates is preparing to expand its network and better serve its existing routes. The investment in training will ensure that its pilots and cabin crew are equipped to meet the demands of the airline’s growing fleet.
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