Training

Jeddah, 12th July 2026: flyadeal, Saudia Group’s low-cost carrier, has achieved a significant milestone in its continued investment in people, training excellence, and the development of world-class instructor pilots following the successful delivery of the ground phase of the Airbus Pilot Instructor Course (APIC). The APIC-Competency-Based Training and Assessment (CBTA) programme, delivered in collaboration with Airbus, is Airbus’ official development pathway for instructor pilots, designed not to teach flying skills, but to elevate the effectiveness of flight instruction itself. This reflects flyadeal’s ongoing efforts to align its training ecosystem with globally recognised aviation standards and reinforce its position as a forward-looking, efficiency-driven airline within the Kingdom’s rapidly evolving aviation sector. The CBTA framework introduces modern, structured approaches to coaching, teaching, and assessment, focusing on the knowledge, skills, and attitude required for safe and consistent flight operations. Unlike traditional assessment models, CBTA enables instructor pilots to move beyond pass-or-fail evaluation and instead identify the root causes of performance gaps, ensuring more precise, data-driven, and effective training interventions. At flyadeal, investing in our people is fundamental to maintaining the highest standards of safety and operational excellence. The Airbus Pilot Instructor Course represents an important step in strengthening the capabilities of our instructor pilots by equipping them with globally recognised teaching and assessment methodologies. As our airline continues to grow, building strong in-house expertise is essential to ensuring we deliver consistent, high-quality pilot training while supporting the long-term development of our operations. This programme reflects our commitment to continuous learning and developing the next generation of aviation professionals within the Kingdom”. Capt. Naif Almatrafi, Director of Flight Operations,flyadeal said: The APIC-CBTA programme is being delivered across two key training locations, demonstrating effective collaboration within Saudi Arabia’s aviation training ecosystem. The ground training phase is taking place at flyadeal Headquarters in Jeddah from 5 to 9 July 2026, while the simulator phase will be conducted at the Prince Sultan Aviation Academy. Delivering the programme across both locations highlights the effective utilisation of flyadeal’s own facilities alongside the wider Saudia Group training network. This reinforces the airline’s commitment to maximising national training resources, while supporting its continued growth and long-term capability development. As the aviation industry continues to evolve, flyadeal remains focused on strengthening its training foundations and ensuring its instructor pilots are equipped with the latest methodologies used by leading global carriers.  

Paris, 8th July 2026: BAA Training France has become the first aviation training center worldwide to operate an Airbus A320 Full Flight Simulator (FFS), certified to the new Airbus Standard 2.2.1 and declared ready for training (RFT). The simulator is owned by Transavia France, the Air France-KLM Group low-cost carrier, and is operated and maintained by BAA Training. It is now available for training to airlines and operators globally. As airlines continue introducing newer A320neo aircraft into their fleets, access to training devices aligned with the latest aircraft standards is becoming increasingly important for maintaining pilot readiness, operational consistency and safety. The latest Airbus standard ensures continued alignment with the most recent A320neo aircraft developments, enabling pilots to train in an environment that accurately reflects current airline operations. Advanced capabilities include Air Traffic Services Unit with Future Air Navigation System C standard (ATSU FANS-C), updated digital Radio Management Panel (RMP), improved Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System (EGPWS) functionality, as well as enhancements contributing to increased safety and improved pilot workload management. This certification marks another significant milestone for BAA Training, bringing the total number of certified FFSs across its global training network to 17. The partnership between Transavia France and BAA Training enables airlines to train crews on a simulator that is fully aligned with the latest A320neo aircraft configuration currently entering service. “This certification reflects our commitment to delivering the most advanced and up-to-date training solutions for our airline partners,” said Vytautas Ledakas, Chief Simulator Training Officer at BAA Training. “By operating and maintaining this state-of-the-art simulator, we ensure pilots are trained in an environment that mirrors today’s real-world operations, while providing our partners with the highest level of training quality and reliability.” With this certification, BAA Training France further strengthens its position as the largest training center within the BAA Training network, offering comprehensive training capabilities for Airbus A320neo, Boeing 737NG and Boeing 747-400, including dry and wet lease solutions, as well as cabin crew training facilities.

Le Loroux-Bottereau, France, 30th June, 2026 : ALSIM has launched the AL3X, its newest Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) simulator designed specifically to meet the growing needs of flight schools and training organizations.Developed around the popular Garmin G3X Touch™ flight deck, the AL3X delivers an immersive and highly realistic training experience in a compact, cost-effective platform that complies with FAA AATD standards. Designed for flight schools operating LSA fleets, the simulator enables students to build essential flying skills while maximizing training efficiency and reducing operational costs. The AL3X combines ALSIM’s proven simulation expertise with a modern cockpit environment that accurately replicates the systems and procedures used in today’s Light Sport Aircraft. Its compact footprint allows training organizations to integrate advanced simulation into their programs without requiring significant facility space or infrastructure investments. The AL3X combines ALSIM’s proven simulation expertise with a modern cockpit environment that accurately replicates the systems and procedures used in today’s Light Sport Aircraft. Its compact footprint allows training organizations to integrate advanced simulation into their programs without requiring significant facility space or infrastructure investments. Powered by a flight model using the renowned Rotax® 912 engine, the AL3X accurately reflects the performance and handling characteristics found across a broad range of modern LSA platforms, including the Tecnam P-Mentor, Pipistrel Alpha Trainer, Sling®, Bristell®, Van’s® RV series, or Evektor Harmony. An optional aircraft parachute system further enhances training capabilities by allowing pilots to safely rehearse critical emergency scenarios that cannot be replicated in the aircraft. Jean-Paul Monnin, Co-founder and President of ALSIM, states: “We are excited to introduce the AL3X to the market. This new simulator expands our portfolio by providing a dedicated training solution for the rapidly growing Light Sport Aircraft segment. The AL3X combines affordability, simplicity, and realism, allowing flight schools to offer high-quality simulation training while optimizing their resources. Our goal is to make professional-grade simulation more accessible than ever.” Several flight schools have already selected the AL3X to support their training programs, recognizing the value of a dedicated LSA simulator that bridges the gap between classroom instruction and aircraft training. ( This news is shared by Alsim and is published unedited at this website) 

To Launch Joint PG Diploma in UAV Operations and Drone Technology Punjab, 10th June 2026: The Indian Institute of Technology Ropar (IIT Ropar) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Rajiv Gandhi National Aviation University (RGNAU) to jointly offer a one-year Post Graduate Diploma programme in UAV Operations and Drone Technology. The MoU was signed by Prof. Rajeev Ahuja, Director, IIT Ropar, and Prof. Bhrigu Nath Singh, Vice Chancellor, RGNAU, in the presence of faculty and officials from both institutions. Under the joint programme, students enrolled in the first semester will study at RGNAU, and will move to IIT Ropar for the second semester. The curriculum is designed to provide both theoretical grounding in UAV technology and hands-on exposure to drone operations and its applications, combining the strengths of both institutions. Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Ahuja said the collaboration would open new avenues for research and skill development in drone technology. Both sides pledged to work together to advance technical education, capacity building, and research in this fast-growing domain. The partnership reflects a shared commitment to producing skilled professionals equipped to meet the growing demands of India’s expanding drone and aviation sector.

Thakur Institute of Aviation Technology, Mumbai, emerged as an official training partner for IndiGo’s cadet AME Programme Thakur Institute of Aviation Technology (TIAT), Mumbai, has been selected by IndiGo, India’s preferred airline, as an official training partner for its Cadet Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) Program, aimed at developing a future-ready aviation maintenance workforce. This strategic collaboration focuses on building a highly skilled, future-ready aviation maintenance workforce to support India’s rapidly expanding aviation industry.As India advances toward becoming one of the world’s largest aviation markets, the sharp increase in aircraft inductions and air traffic has created a pressing requirement for DGCA-licensed, technically competent Aircraft Maintenance Engineers. The Cadet AME Programme has been developed to address this industry need through a structured, airline-oriented training framework that prepares candidates for real-world maintenance operations. By combining TIAT Mumbai’s academic expertise with IndiGo’s operational scale, the program sets a new standard in technical aviation education. TIAT will deliver training through its modern infrastructure, advanced instructional systems, and experienced aviation professionals, ensuring that cadets gain both conceptual depth and strong practical orientation.The initiative aims not only to strengthen India’s long-term aircraft maintenance capability but also to provide aspiring engineers with a clearly defined and industry-aligned career pathway. Leadership Comments Mr. Parichay Datta, Senior Vice President – Engineering, IndiGo, added: “India has emerged as one of the world’s fastest‑growing aviation markets, with a scale and momentum that increasingly influence global aviation. IndiGo’s long‑term growth, complemented by a pipeline of about 900 aircraft scheduled for induction in the coming years, underscores the critical need for a future‑ready workforce. The partnership with TIAT, Mumbai, to introduce the Cadet AME Programme reflects a strategic investment in developing skilled maintenance professionals essential to IndiGo’s expansion and to the continued advancement of India’s aviation ecosystem.” Programme Overview and Selection Process Under this programme, TIAT, Mumbai will select 30 cadets from its 2026–27 academic cohort in the Category B1.1 (Aeroplanes Turbine) stream. The selection process will involve: • A comprehensive entrance examination and academic assessment conducted by TIAT • A final evaluation and personal interaction by IndiGo along with medical fitment clearance Selected cadets will undergo theoretical training and hands-on workshop instruction at TIAT’s training facilities. In addition, Actual Environment Training (AET) will be conducted at IndiGo facility enabling cadets to gain first hand exposure to airline maintenance practices. The curriculum will place strong emphasis on DGCA regulatory requirements, technical accuracy, safety standards, and applied understanding. Employment Pathway Upon successful completion of all DGCA-approved modules and examinations, and subject to fulfilling all stipulated criteria and vacancy, IndiGo will offer participating cadets employment as Junior Cadet AMEs . By seamlessly integrating structured academic learning with airline level operational exposure, the Cadet AME Programme aims to ensure a consistent supply of skilled Aircraft Maintenance Engineers, supporting the safety, reliability, and scalability of India’s fastest-growing aviation sector. Eligibility Criteria for IndiGo Cadet AME Programme 1: Nationality • The candidate must be an Indian national. 2. Educational Qualification • Minimum 10+2 (Higher Secondary) in the Science stream or equivalent • Minimum 60% aggregate in: :Physics :Chemistry :Mathematics 3. Language Proficiency • Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory. 4. Medical Fitness through CA form 19 • The candidate must be physically fit. • Colour blindness is not permitted. Contact Details: Mob: +91-8828888830 / +91-8451928651 Website: https://tiatmumbai.in/

SINGAPORE, 28 April 2026: HTX (Home Team Science and Technology Agency) and ST Engineering announced a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at MTX (Milipol TechX Summit) 2026 to establish a new space technology programme, and co-develop space-based science and technology capabilities to strengthen Singapore’s public safety operations. Space-based developments like satellites can enhance the Home Team’s observational and early-warning capabilities, such as through the detection and monitoring of hazardous gas plumes offshore. This would force multiply the Home Team by giving first responders sufficient lead time to react and mitigate incidents, and ultimately be better positioned to save lives. “We are continually exploring how science and technology can unlock new capabilities for the Home Team. Space technologies, in particular, offer significant potential, such as the early detection and monitoring of hazardous gas plumes offshore. This capability enables faster and more effective responses to save lives and safeguard public safety,” said Chan Tsan, Chief Executive of HTX. “Satellite missions are set to play a greater role in public safety operations. As a strategic partner to HTX, we are applying our expertise in Earth observation satellites, geospatial services, and advanced digital technologies to jointly develop space-based capabilities that strengthen public safety outcomes,” said Low Jin Phang, Chief Operating Officer for Defence & Public Security, and President for Digital Systems, ST Engineering. This partnership builds on the longstanding collaboration between HTX and ST Engineering in advancing innovation in critical science and technology areas for Singapore’s public safety.

Le Loroux Bottereau, France,23rd April 2026: ALSIM has anounced that Aviomar Flight Academy, based in Italy, has acquired an AL42 Diamond DA42 simulator, reinforcing the strategic development of its Parma Training Centre and its commitment to delivering professional, airline-oriented pilot training. The AL42 is an exact replica of the Diamond DA42-VI, built using genuine aircraft parts and equipped with the authentic Garmin™ G1000® NXI. It also features the latest-generation image generator (VFR-VS), a GFC™ 700 autopilot, and a force-feedback system that ensuring enhanced realism. The simulator can also be equipped with either analog or glass (EFIS) backup instruments. The AL42 model is designed for PPL, CPL and IR/ME training in compliance with current regulatory standards of EASA FNPT II, FAA AATD/FTD Level 5 and Transport Canada FTD Level 2 with IPC capability. “We are proud to introduce the Diamond DA42 simulator to our Parma Training Centre, reinforcing our vision of providing airline-focused training through advanced technology and strong industry partnerships,” said Capt. Michele Marano. “This investment supports the growth of the Ryanair Future Flyer Academy at Aviomar and confirms our commitment to preparing the next generation of professional pilots to the highest standards in Northern Italy.” The AL42 will be on display at ALSIM’s booth during AERO Friedrichshafen, April 22–25, 2026 (Booth A6-210), offering visitors with the opportunity to experience the simulator firsthand. Demonstration sessions can be booked in advance to experience the simulator live (click here). “We are honored to support Aviomar Flight Academy in this important step. Aviomar is one of the best structured flight schools in Europe, with a clear strategic vision and a strong focus on airline-oriented training. As a long-time partner of ALSIM, they have consistently demonstrated professionalism and operational excellence. We are proud to be part of their expansion into Northern Italy and to contribute to the continued development of their training capabilities.” adds Leonardo Rodrigues, Sales Manager at ALSIM.

Astana, 20th April 2026: The Air Astana Group has boosted Airbus pilot training capability with the introduction of a second full flight simulator at the airline’s Flight Training Centre in Astana. The new Reality7e simulator developed by Acron Aviation was certified in accordance with European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), together with national certification issued by the Aviation Administration of Kazakhstan. Air Astana is the first airline in Kazakhstan to have a simulator certified under this dual framework. The expansion of training facilities strengthens the airline’s commitment for effective and efficient pilot training and the implementation of advanced aviation technologies. The simulator reproduces up to six degrees of motion with a high level of realism. Using extensive flight data sets, it accurately replicates aerodynamic characteristics, aircraft control systems and ground handling performance, ensuring that pilots are trained in conditions closely aligned with real flight operations. Air Astana was among the first operators of Reality7e systems in Central Asia, following the introduction of its first simulator of this type in summer 2023. More than 600 Airbus pilots having been undergoing training and recurrent checks every six months on this single simulator. The Air Astana Flight Training Centre is regularly visited by airline industry delegations, as well as by government and aviation authority officials, which reflects its growing stature as an advanced aviation training facility in Central Asia. Amongst the most recent visitors was Sally Axworthy, British Ambassador to Kazakhstan, who was introduced to the facility’s capabilities and took part in a demonstration flight in the simulator.

Mumbai, 15 April 2026: CAE Simulation Training Private Limited (CSTPL), a joint venture between InterGlobe Enterprises and CAE, has opened its fourth advanced pilot training centre in India. Located in Mumbai, the 44,000-square-foot state-of-the-art facility supports India’s growing aviation training sector and strengthens domestic pilot training capacity. Designed to provide an immersive and highly realistic training environment that upholds the industry’s highest safety and proficiency standards, the centre begins operations with its first Airbus A320 full-flight simulator (FFS). A second Airbus A320 FFS is scheduled to enter service later this year, with the capacity to scale up to six FFS over time, in line with market demand. This addition reinforces CSTPL’s position as the largest pilot training organization in the country. With established centres in Greater Noida, Gurugram, and Bengaluru, the network currently has a collective capacity of 16 full-flight simulators, with plans to scale to 23 in the coming years. The Mumbai centre will support comprehensive pilot training services, complemented by Airbus, ATR, and Boeing training delivered across the CSTPL network in India, including type rating, recurrent training, and proficiency checks. This growth underscores the shared commitment of InterGlobe and CAE to setting the highest industry standards for pilot training and flight safety. As one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets, India’s rapid expansion requires a robust and sustainable pipeline of skilled professionals. According to CAE’s Aviation Talent Forecast, India will need approximately 22,000 new pilots by 2034 to support the continued growth of its aviation sector. Maharashtra stands as a premier aviation hub, and CSTPL’s Mumbai centre is uniquely positioned to serve the evolving operational needs of both Mumbai and Navi Mumbai airports. By expanding domestic training capacity, the facility enables airlines to meet regulatory and operational standards with greater efficiency. The inauguration ceremony was attended by leadership teams from CAE, InterGlobe, and CSTPL, along with strategic stakeholders from across the aviation industry. The event marked a collaborative milestone for the sector, underscoring the centre’s role as a key hub for airline partners and its contribution to building a steady pipeline of world-class pilots to support their operations. Alexandre Prévost, President, Civil Aviation, CAE, said, “India is one of the fastest growing aviation markets in the world, and the opening of the Mumbai centre strengthens our ability to support that growth with world class training capabilities. It reinforces CAE’s global Civil Aviation training network and is aligned with our broader transformation, focusing on disciplined capacity alignment and market led growth. Delivered through CSTPL, in partnership with our long standing partner InterGlobe, this centre expands domestic training capacity and provides airlines with access to advanced, high fidelity simulation close to where they operate.” Aditya Pande, Group Chief Executive Officer, InterGlobe Enterprises, said, “The opening of our new pilot training centre in Mumbai is a defining milestone for India’s aviation ecosystem and a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence. For over 12 years, our strategic partnership with CAE has been at the forefront of aviation training in India, consistently evolving to meet the industry’s needs. As the country’s largest pilot training organization, this fourth centre significantly scales CSTPL’s collective capacity to meet the critical demand for highly skilled pilots. We are proud to continue leading the way in nurturing aviation talent and driving the safety standards that support the growth of the industry.”

New Delhi, 7th April 2026: Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) and Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the establishment and operation of a dedicated indigenous Testing Centre for conducting trials, performance evaluation and certification of Full Body Scanners (FBS) and other security screening equipment used at Indian airports. The MoU was signed in New Delhi, in the presence of Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu, Union Minister of Civil Aviation; Samir Kumar Sinha, Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation; Rajesh Nirwan, DG, BCAS and Dr. Bimal Patel, Vice Chancellor, Rashtriya Raksha University. Speaking on the occasion, Ram Mohan Naidu said, “Today’s MoU between BCAS and Rashtriya Raksha University is a natural extension of the NDA Government’s twin focus on security research and capacity building. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, strengthening security through focused research, innovation and capacity building has remained a core priority. It is primarily about building an Atma-Nirbhar Bharat, Atma-Surakshit Bharat!” Highlighting the legacy and institutional strength of RRU, he added, “With a clear mandate of ‘Rastriya Surkasha Sarvopari’, the Rastriya Raksha University was established in 2010 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi back then serving as CM of Gujarat. And under the able guidance of Home Minister Amit Shah, it has emerged as one of the most prestigious institutions globally in its domain.” The partnership creates a formal institutional framework for cooperation between BCAS and RRU in the areas of testing, certification, research, training and standards development relating to aviation security equipment. It is aimed at strengthening India’s aviation security ecosystem through a credible, independent and scientifically rigorous mechanism for assessment and regulatory support. Under the MoU, RRU, in collaboration with BCAS, will establish and maintain a dedicated Testing Centre for conducting trials of Full Body Scanners and other aviation security equipment in accordance with directives issued by BCAS. The Centre will undertake independent evaluation, verification and certification of the specifications and performance of equipment supplied by Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), and submit impartial and scientifically robust assessment reports for regulatory consideration. Underscoring the focus on Atmanirbharta in aviation security, the Minister stated, “I see the highlight of this association is definitely the focus on building Atmanirbharta in aviation security equipment. While aligning with foreign certification practices, we should now aim to emerge as a global hub for aviation security certification. Importantly, by providing testing support to Indian OEMs, we can facilitate the development of Bharat Standards.” Ram Mohan Naidu further added, “I strongly believe that by combining the regulatory authority of BCAS with the technical prowess of RRU, we will build an indigenous ecosystem for security equipment certification, which will resonate with international practices such as those overseen by the TSA in the United States and ECAC in Europe.” The MoU also provides for the establishment of state-of-the-art testing laboratories at RRU, aligned with global standards, to carry out rigorous performance, safety and interoperability assessments. This will support the development of an institutionalised accreditation framework to ensure that only equipment meeting prescribed technical and operational benchmarks is considered for deployment in critical aviation security environments. The MoU further envisages cooperation in academics, research, extension and training programmes for mutual benefit. It includes capacity-building initiatives through workshops, specialised training programmes and knowledge-sharing activities aimed at developing professional expertise in testing, accreditation and emerging aviation security technologies. The partnership will also promote research and innovation in the field of aviation security, enabling continuous refinement of testing methodologies, accreditation criteria and deployment protocols in response to evolving threat scenarios and technological developments. It will additionally facilitate national and international collaborations to align India’s testing and certification ecosystem with global best practices. Highlighting the rapid growth of the aviation sector, the Minister mentioned, “We all are witness to the revolutionary growth that is happening in the civil aviation sector. Airports in the country have more than doubled from 74 in 2014 to 165 today. Every hour, our airports are handling 250 to 300 aircraft movements and catering to a massive footfall of about 40-45,000 passengers every hour! And not only passengers, air cargo too has seen a staggering leap in volumes by almost 50% over the last 10-12 years. So, it is very important to adopt the highest standards of technology and highest standards of professional competence in the operations of BCAS. And this MoU between BCAS & RRU is a step forward in that direction towards building a future-ready and resilient aviation security ecosystem.” (Courtesy: PIB/MoCA)