The airline training industry is undergoing a seismic change in training philosophy from a ‘prescriptive, hours-based training process to competency-based training. [...]

Could a focus on best practices help MPL achieve greater adoption? “I’ve just returned from APATS and am reflecting on the endless discussions about MPL and the frequent statements that it will become the dominant method of training — training the majority of pilots worldwide. Given the current method of implementing MPL, I personally would have to disagree.” [...]

During this month’s IAFTP Advisory Committee meeting, there was a discussion regarding the apparent reluctance of some (both individuals and companies) to share their training practices with other aviation training professionals. It’s apparently not uncommon to hear the justification that “my (or our) training practices are proprietary.” [...]

Recently IAFTP received a question from one of our members who had read Captain Croft’s series about developing a Part 121 compliant CRM program (click HERE to access the series). [...]

A question has been raised about how pilot training, including its sub-components like CRM and Upset Recovery Training, relates to a Safety Management System (SMS). Is pilot training a risk mitigation component of SMS? [...]

The concept of managing training is not new. Each pilot has experienced some form of record keeping system during his or her career – some good and some not so good. Most of them have been paper-based and subject to error (both accidental and intentional). Today, the effective daily management of a pilot training program requires constant monitoring and decision-making based on accurate and current information. How is this being done? [...]

We all pay for flying lessons – one way or another. The young student at the local aero club – selling petrol or stacking shelves in the supermarket between lessons; or perhaps the university graduate, learning to fly via a sponsored airline program, first in small aircraft, then gradually larger ones, with the host airline – whose passengers ultimately pay for the fees; or the military officer at an academy, flying fees are donated by the tax payers of the state; yes, flying lessons are already paid for – by someone, somewhere. The question is: “Can flying lessons be continued past ab-initio into the commercial airline industry; and can this proposition make money, continuously, without causing damage, disruption or financial ruin?” Read one aviation professional’s opinion. [...]

Simulators can affect both the length of time and cost of flight training for Private and Commercial certificates. Now, the pace of technology makes it easier than ever before to access low cost devices for this level of training. However, should access be the only concern when including simulator training in a curriculum? Two distinct flight training philosophies regarding the use of simulators are beginning to emerge as our industry seeks ways to improve pilot training effectiveness. [...]

By Captain Jacques Drappier, Senior Training Advisor, Airbus [Editor’s comment: This presentation was featured on the first day of WATS 2013.] About the Author: Captain Drappier is a former Sabena management pilot. Whilst with Sabena he held various positions in the training and flight operations departments, ranging from instructor pilot to Director of the ab [...] [...]

“… where do we start in order to solve this problem? Is it a regulatory issue, a manufacturer issue, an airline issue, a flight training provider issue, an instructor issue, a student issue, or an overall lack of leadership issue?” [...]

From my perspective here in Europe, the world’s aviation training community is only focusing on air carrier training issues and ignoring the unique training needs of the global corporate and business aircraft community. Am I wrong? Is there really no difference between flying an Airbus or Boeing on scheduled routes and transporting small groups on demand to every corner of the world? What training initiatives exist or are being developed for us? [...]

“… I need to find ways to help my students learn from the experiences of others so that they understand the importance of the lessons I’m trying to teach them. Where can I find real world examples specific to my airplane that aren’t just accident reports?” [...]