Next Generation of Pilots begin AB Initio Training through new Jeppesen and Emirates Aviation College Collaboration

The first class of ab initio cadets began the 16-month program with ground school and theory training in March 2012, as the first step toward earning an airline transport pilot license (ATPL) or a commercial pilot license with single-engine and multi-engine instrument ratings.

The commercial aviation industry is facing a tremendous demand for new personnel over the next 20 years. The Boeing Pilot & Technician Outlook forecasts a need for more than a million commercial airline pilots and maintenance technicians. In the Middle East alone, the 20 year projection calls for 36,600 pilots and 53,000 technicians.

Boeing is working with airlines and industry to help solve this issue starting with programs such as the joint training collaboration with Emirates Aviation College. The program provides cadets with the knowledge and practical experience necessary to meet the increasing industry demand for commercial aviation pilots. Cadets in the Jeppesen-backed Emirates Aviation College licensed pilot training program will complete eight months of ground and theory training in Dubai, followed by eight months of practical flight training in Lisbon, Portugal.

"It is a great pleasure for us to collaborate with Boeing and Jeppesen in introducing such a unique program to the region," said Dr. Ahmad Al Ali, senior vice-president, Emirates Aviation College. "We decided to launch the program to assist in meeting the future demand for highly skilled professional airline pilots. The program, since its launch, has had an exceptional response from the market, and we are very positive that it will be very successful."

Boeing now offers integrated ab initio training programs and services that incorporate new technologies and methods of learning that resonate with todays student pilots through curriculum developed by best in class aviation flight schools and universities. Following the inaugural Emirates Aviation College cadet class, an expected three to four annual ab initio pilot training classes are scheduled to begin at the Dubai facility.

"Teaming with Emirates Aviation College as a premier aviation educational facility allows cadets to gain essential ab initio training in a structured environment that provides a more efficient training experience, increases pilot proficiency and accelerates student pilot progress," said Thomas Wede, Jeppesen senior vice president and general manager, Aviation.

Following completion of the 16-month pilot training program, successful Emirates Aviation College cadets will have the opportunity to continue their education by enrolling in a Bachelors of Science degree program in Aviation at the institution.

Complete Boeing and Jeppesen training solutions for flight training organizations eliminate the need to draw upon multiple resources for training materials, as bundled, customized curriculum and learning elements are offered directly from a single provider. Jeppesen provides pilot supplies, test preparation materials, e-learning programs, training program syllabus guidelines and industry-leading IFR and VFR charts as part of customizable and complete training solutions. Boeing then adds a Jet Bridge Program and a full type rating to deliver a competent and confident first officer to the airline.

"Supporting our customers as they grow their business is of utmost priority to us" said Roei Ganzarski, chief customer officer, Boeing Flight Services. "At Boeing, we take pride at our ability to provide our customers with holistic solutions that enhance their operations."

Dr. Ahmad Al Ali, senior vice-president, EAC with ab initio training cadets at the Dubai-based facility