Emirates Teams with IATA and Airbus for A350 Training, Enhancing Service with Advanced Technology

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Emirates, the International Air Transport Association (IATA), and Airbus have collaborated to launch an advanced Competency-Based Training and Assessment (CBTA) program for the A350 type rating. This initiative comes as Emirates prepares to receive 65 A350 aircraft starting in mid-2024. The first group of 256 pilots will undergo training at Emirates’ Training College in Dubai beginning July 2024.

The cutting-edge pilot training program integrates IATA’s CBTA principles and documentation, Emirates’ operational expertise and resources, and Airbus’ decade-long CBTA training experience on the A350.

Focused on pilot competency and behavior, the A350 CBTA program employs a proven CBTA training philosophy that enables instructors to evaluate pilot performance and implement immediate improvements. The program consists of 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 organizations 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-     service of the A350 worldwide,” said  Capt Stéphan Labrucherie, Airbus Head of Flight Training Worldwide.

The A350 type rating program is a key initiative by Emirates to prepare for the entry of its new A350 aircraft into service. In addition to pilot training, various other departments, including Service Delivery and Engineering teams, are also gearing up for the A350’s debut.

CBTA and IATA

Achieving the benefits and efficiencies of CBTA training has been a longstanding goal in the aviation industry. For flight crew training, IATA supports this objective 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 emphasizes CBTA training to support the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations. The IATA CBTA Center aids organizations across the aviation industry, including operators, Civil Aviation Authorities, and training organizations, in developing capabilities and resources for dangerous goods training programs. Additionally, it offers specialized CBTA training for various airline functions, from ground handlers and passenger agents to load planners and crew members.