Emirates, IATA, and Airbus Launch Advanced A350 Pilot Training Programme

Emirates, the International Air Transport Association (IATA), and Airbus have partnered to introduce an enhanced Competency-Based Training and Assessment (CBTA) programme for the A350 type rating. This initiative is part of Emirates' preparation for the delivery of 65 A350 aircraft starting mid-2024. The program will commence in July 2024 at Emirates' Training College in Dubai, with an initial cohort of 256 pilots.

The advanced training program leverages the CBTA methodology, integrating IATA's principles and documentation with Emirates' operational expertise and Airbus' extensive CBTA training experience on the A350, which spans over a decade.

Focusing on pilot competency and behaviour, the A350 CBTA program employs a proven training philosophy that enables instructors to continuously assess and enhance pilot performance. The training is structured into two phases, including 20 days of simulator training and evaluation across 15 separate sessions.

"With this programme, Emirates’ pilots receive in-house competency-based training with highly qualified instructors, equipping them with world-class capabilities to support the airline’s global operations. 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. This latest initiative is part of Emirates’ commitment to deliver the highest standards of service and comfort while supporting our operational growth and expansion," said Capt. Bader Al Marzooqi, Emirates’ Senior Vice President, Flight 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 utilize the benefits of CBTA to qualify the pilots on the A350 in the most efficient and effective way possible. And by doing it together all three organisations will also gain valuable experience that can strengthen their other training activities,” said Nick Careen, IATA’s Senior Vice President for Operations, Safety and Security.

"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, supporting the smooth entry-     into- requiring-service of the A350 worldwide," said  Capt Stéphan Labrucherie, Airbus Head of Flight Training Worldwide.

The A350-type rating programme is one of the ways Emirates is prepping the entry of its new A350 into service. Along with pilot training, other parts of the airline are also working on preparing for the debut of A350 operations including Service Delivery and Engineering teams, among different departments.

CBTA and IATA

Gaining the benefits and efficiencies of CBTA training is a longstanding industry objective. For flight crew, IATA is supporting this with its CBTA Guide for Flight Crew Training, which is fully aligned with ICAO CBTA standards and includes specific libraries for Airlines/Operators and Training Organizations.

IATA also focuses on CBTA training in support of the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations. The IATA CBTA Center supports organisations across the aviation industry, including operators, Civil Aviation Authorities, and training organisations, in developing the capabilities and resources for dangerous goods training programs. It also offers CBTA training specialized for various airline functions, from ground handlers to passenger agents, load planning, crew, etc.