Emirates invests $48 million in pilot, cabin crew training

Ahead of the arrival of its highly anticipated Airbus A350s, Emirates has made a significant investment of approximately $48 million in state-of-the-art equipment and systems for both pilot and cabin crew training, as reported by Khaleej Times.

The investment encompasses three full-flight simulators equipped with innovative Pilot Support Systems (PSS), a fixed-base training device, a cabin emergency evacuation trainer, and a door trainer. This commitment underscores the airline’s dedication to achieving the highest standards of crew training excellence.

Notably, the PSS, which is an industry first, was developed entirely in-house by Emirates to enhance the training experience. During the initial briefing phase, trainees are able to engage in an interactive flight deck setup, including flight plan creation, all within a fully immersive environment. This setup can then be recalled when trainees step into the simulator to continue their training. The PSS also features a debrief mode that allows instructors to review recorded sessions to evaluate crew performance.

Emirates has received the highest level D qualification for its first A350 full-flight simulator from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), achieving this milestone without any findings, which is a notable accomplishment in the simulation industry. This advanced technology not only boosts training efficiency but also empowers pilots to confidently master the necessary skills for smooth operations.

The airline has ordered a total of three full-flight simulators for its A350 fleet. The second simulator is currently in the onsite acceptance stage and is expected to gain EASA approval in November.

The A350 fixed-base training device emulates the flight deck, utilizing visual and audio systems to provide highly realistic training sessions.

Capt. Bader Al Marzooqi, Emirates’ Senior Vice President of Flight Training, stated, “Innovation is at the heart of Emirates’ ethos, which is evident in our newly acquired A350 training equipment and the advanced pilot training facility set to open later this year. We’re proud to have the capacity to increase our pilot training by 54 percent. With our investment in the new simulators and systems, our pilots and cabin crew are well-prepared, trained, and confident to handle any operational challenges safely and effectively.”

Currently, Emirates has trained nearly 30 pilots and 820 cabin crew members. By the end of November, over 50 pilots are expected to have completed their training on the A350 full-flight simulators before the aircraft enters service. The airline’s pilots and cabin crew undergo thorough, evidence-based training, conducted in-house by experienced instructors in specially designed environments.

In June, Emirates announced a partnership with IATA and Airbus to implement an enhanced Competency-Based Training and Assessment program for the A350 type rating.

Looking toward its next phase of growth, Emirates has a total of 65 A350s and a mix of 205 777Xs on order, which will facilitate the airline’s expansion plans and improve service on existing routes.

Later this year, Emirates will unveil its advanced pilot training facility, spanning 63,318 sq. ft., which will feature six full-flight simulator bays for the A350 and Boeing 777X aircraft. Across its pilot training facilities, Emirates will have 17 full-flight simulators, providing over 130,000 training hours annually.