In advance of its much-awaited Airbus A350s joining the fleet, Emirates has invested around US$48 million in full suites of cutting-edge equipment and systems to support pilot and cabin crew training.
The suites include three full flight simulators integrated with innovative pilot support systems (PSS), a fixed base training device, a cabin emergency evacuation trainer and a door trainer. This investment reflects the airline’s commitment to achieve the ultimate standards and excellence in crew training.
The PSS is an industry first and was fully conceptualised inhouse by Emirates to optimise the training experience. During the briefing phase, it allows trainees to carry out an interactive flight deck set-up, including building a flight plan, in a fully immersive environment. The set-up is recalled once the trainees move inside the simulator to resume their training. The PSS’ debrief mode allows the instructor to playback the recorded session to review crew performance.
Emirates has ordered three full flight simulators for its A350 fleet. The second A350 simulator is in its onsite acceptance stage and is scheduled to receive EASA approval in November.
The A350 fixed base training device replicates the flight deck, using visual and audio systems to make training sessions as realistic as possible.
At present, the airline has trained nearly 30 pilots and 820 cabin crew members. By end-November, over 50 pilots will have completed their training on the A350 full-flight simulators prior to the aircraft’s entry into service.
In June this year, Emirates entered into a joint collaboration with IATA and Airbus to deliver an enhanced Competency-Based Training and Assessment program for the A350 type rating.
Emirates will open its advanced pilot training facility later this year. The 63,318 sq.ft. facility can house six full-flight simulator bays for the A350 and Boeing 777X aircraft. Across the airline’s pilot training facilities, Emirates’ aviators will be able to hone their flying skills with 17 full flight simulators offering a capacity of more than 130,000 training hours a year.
