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US Aviation Academy Expands Pilot Training Infrastructure – Acquires Flight School Assets in Atlanta

Texas – United States based US Aviation Academy (USAA), one of the largest aviation and pilot training organizations in North America which recently announced it had already enrolled more than 500 aspiring pilots to its 2024 flight training courses, has announced in a in a strategic move to expand its footprint and meet the growing demand for professional pilot training,

US Aviation Academy has acquired the assets of a well-established flight school in Atlanta, Georgia. This new location brings a wealth of opportunities for aspiring pilots in the Southeast, enabling them to access top-tier flight training and resources. With a robust reputation for high-quality training programs across the United States, US Aviation Academy’s entrance into the Atlanta market is a welcome development for local students seeking accelerated pathways to becoming commercial pilots.

The Atlanta Flight School campus
It will initially operate under Part 61 regulations, allowing for a flexible, personalized approach to training. This setup is particularly beneficial for students who want to pursue an accelerated course of study, as Part 61 regulations typically allow for a more adaptable schedule, enabling trainees to progress at their own pace. This model has long been favored by those aiming for swift completion and professional entry into the aviation industry. For students balancing work or other commitments, Part 61 training offers an ideal blend of rigor and flexibility, keeping their career goals on track.

Working toward Part 141 certification for the Atlanta Flight School
with FAA approval pending. This certification will allow the academy to offer a structured and streamlined curriculum, designed to optimize the learning experience and meet the highest regulatory standards. Part 141 programs are particularly appealing to students aiming for financial aid, veterans’ benefits, or specific airline career tracks, as this certification often aligns with streamlined training paths and financial incentives. Once approved, the Atlanta campus will be able to attract a broader range of students seeking the benefits of a Part 141 training environment.

The acquisition of the Atlanta flight school assets
Represents US Aviation Academy’s commitment to expanding access to quality aviation training in key locations across the U.S. As one of the busiest aviation hubs in the country, Atlanta offers ideal conditions for flight training, with access to diverse airspace and a vibrant aviation community. Students at the new campus will benefit from experienced instructors, well-maintained aircraft, and a training environment that reflects US Aviation Academy’s high standards of safety and professionalism.

With the addition of the Atlanta campus, US Aviation Academy continues to make strides in providing premier aviation education options for those seeking careers in aviation. The Atlanta acquisition not only strengthens the academy’s reach but also affirms its commitment to adapting to industry needs and offering flexible training solutions. As Part 141 approval nears, the future looks bright for aspiring pilots in the Southeast.

Source: US Aviation Academy

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Avia Solutions Group Announces 2024 Appointment for Executive Vice Chairman of the Board

Irish-based Avia Solutions Group, the world’s largest ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) provider, has appointed Tom Klein as Executive Vice-Chairman of the Board, a new role, effective immediately.

He will continue in his roles as Senior Managing Director at US -based Certares Management, a private equity investment firm which invested into the Group in 2021.

Klein brings to the Group extensive knowledge of the global aviation, travel, tourism and technology sectors. His main responsibilities will include leading on investor relations and advising on wider business development while his geographic location will allow for executive presence and a greater focus on activities in the Americas.

The appointment comes at a time when Avia Solutions Group is growing significantly, with the Group reporting first half of 2024 revenues of €1.2 billion, a year-on-year increase of 29% and a 34% growth in EBITDA year-on-year to €179 million.

The Group has ongoing plans to further expand its global presence and ability to offer capacity solutions, particularly during peak seasons, to airlines around the world.

Gediminas Ziemelis, Chairman of Avia Solutions Group, said: “With his extensive experience in global aviation and travel sectors, and a proven track record in investor relations, Tom is a great addition to our senior leadership team. I look forward to working with him closely as we execute our long-term growth strategy.”

Tom Klein, Executive Vice-Chairman of the Board of Avia Solutions Group, said: “I am honoured to be appointed as Executive Vice-Chairman. The demand for the Group’s services is increasing significantly, and I look forward to playing a key role in expanding our global customer base.”

Prior to joining Certares in 2018, Klein was the CEO and President of Sabre, a global technology company serving the travel industry. Klein led the successful IPO of Sabre in 2014. He served 7 years as a founding board member of Brand USA, culminating his tenure as Chairman. Klein has served on multiple boards and prior to Sabre, he held management positions at American Airlines and Consolidated Freightways

Avia Solutions Group currently operates a fleet of 214-aircraft, split between 174 passenger aircraft and 40 freighters.

Source: Avia Solutions Group
Photo Credit: Avia Solutions Group

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Spanish Airline First to Take Delivery of A321XLR

Spanish flag carrier Iberia has taken delivery of its first A321XLR, becoming the launch operator of the world’s newest single-aisle aircraft. The aircraft, powered by CFM LEAP-1A engines, will be operated by Iberia on a number of regional flights across the airline’s European network before its first transatlantic mission from Madrid to Boston later in November.

Marco Sansavini, CEO & Chairman at Iberia, said: “We are very proud to be the launch airline for this new Airbus aircraft. The A321XLR will allow us to reach new destinations, operating transoceanic routes and doing so in a more efficient way.”

Christian Scherer, CEO Commercial Aircraft at Airbus, said: “Five years in the making, the newest member of the Airbus family is all set to join its first operator, Iberia. The A321XLR will enable countless new non-stop destinations; it truly opens a new chapter in air connectivity. It is another proud “first” for all of us at Airbus in our constant quest to innovate and bring value to our customers. We are pleased to share this special moment with a special customer: gracias y felicidades Iberia.”

The newly delivered A321XLR to Iberia seats 182 passengers in a two-class layout with lie-flat business class seats with direct aisle access. Boasting the new Airspace cabin, the aircraft will provide passengers with long haul comfort in all classes. The XL bins provide 60% more luggage capacity for a more relaxed boarding experience for passengers and cabin crew. In addition, in-seat connectivity is available for passengers at every seat, and the latest lighting system enhances the overall passenger experience.

The A321XLR is the next evolutionary step from the A320neo which responds to market needs for even more range and payload, creating more value for the airlines. It will deliver an unprecedented Xtra Long Range of up to 4,700nm – 15% more range than the A321LR and with 30% lower fuel burn per seat compared with previous generation competitor aircraft, as well as reduced NOx emissions and noise. So far, Airbus has secured more than 500 orders for the aircraft.

The first A321XLR completed its maiden flight in June 2022. This was followed by an extensive test programme involving three test aircraft. As with all Airbus aircraft, the A321XLR aircraft is already able to operate with up to 50% SAF. Airbus is targeting to have its aircraft up to 100% SAF capable by 2030.

Source: Airbus
Photo Credit: Airbus

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Aircraft Manufacturer Proposes CEO Renewal and Prepares for Management Changes in 2024 and 2025

The Board of Directors of Airbus SE will propose to the shareholders at the 2025 Annual General Meeting the renewal of Guillaume Faury as Executive member of the Board and Airbus Chief Executive Officer.

The Company is also announcing management transition steps in its Commercial Aircraft business. Lars Wagner, currently the CEO of MTU Aero Engines AG, based in Munich, has been selected to join the Airbus Executive Committee, after finalising his term at MTU, to become the successor of Christian Scherer as CEO of the Commercial Aircraft business.

“Christian and I are excited to have Lars Wagner, such a talented industry leader, coming back to the Airbus family in this key role,” said Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury. “Christian remains at the helm of the Commercial Aircraft business, supported by a great team, until the transition to Lars. Christian and I will continue to work closely together for the success of Airbus in the dynamic and complex environment we are operating in.”

“We have a clear plan for our Commercial Aircraft business and after 40 years at Airbus, I remain committed to the success of the Company,” said CEO Commercial Aircraft Christian Scherer. “I believe that Lars, whom I have known for a long time, is the natural choice for Airbus as my successor. I very much welcome his nomination and look forward to working with him in this future transition.”

Source: Airbus
Photo Credit: Airbus

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UK Headquartered Flight Training Group, Leading Edge Aviation, Invests GBP 2 Million in 16 Aspiring Pilots

United Kingdom headquartered pilot training group Leading Edge Aviation, which operates flight training bases both in the UK and in Spain, proudly announces the outcome of its Funded* fATPL and Flight Instructor Training Programme, surpassing its initial goal by selecting double the number of candidates. With a £2M commitment, this initiative makes pilot training accessible to a more diverse range of aspiring pilots, covering up to 85%* of training costs.

Leading Edge Aviation’s groundbreaking training programme offers two distinct pathways to cater to different levels of experience. For those who already hold a Private Pilot’s Licence (PPL) and have some flying experience, the Modular Route provides an unprecedented opportunity. This first-of-its-kind pathway for modular students offers significant financial support, making it more accessible for aspiring pilots to achieve their fATPL (frozen Airline Transport Pilot Licence) and Flight Instructor qualification.

For individuals with no prior flying experience, the Integrated Route offers a comprehensive training journey from novice to expert. This pathway covers all the necessary training to obtain both the fATPL and Flight Instructor qualifications, ensuring a thorough and structured approach to becoming a professional pilot.

After graduation, both routes guarantee a two-year employment contract with Leading Edge Aviation, providing a secure and promising start to their aviation career.

Programme Highlights:

  • Significant Savings: Successful candidates will only need to fund £20,000 (for modular applicants with PPL) or £30,000 (for integrated applicants with no experience) for all training and accommodation costs.
  • First-of-its-Kind Opportunity for Modular Students: This programme offers modular students with a Private Pilot’s Licence (PPL) an exclusive chance to advance towards their fATPL (frozen Airline Transport Pilot Licence) and become a Flight Instructor.
  • Comprehensive Training: Participants will achieve their fATPL and Flight Instructor qualification.
  • Guaranteed Employment: Graduates receive a two-year bonded employment contract with Leading Edge Aviation based in Alhama de Murcia base in Southern Spain.
  • State-of-the-Art Facilities: Training will be conducted at Leading Edge Aviation’s premier facilities in Oxford and Alhama campus in Southern Spain.

Andy McFarlane, CEO of Leading Edge Aviation, commented, “We recognise that the cost of pilot training is a significant barrier for some talented individuals. Our new programme is designed to break down these financial barriers and provide a clear, affordable path to a rewarding career in aviation. We are committed to training the next generation of pilots and flight instructors, ensuring a steady supply of skilled professionals for the aviation industry while turning students’ dreams into reality.”

Applications were open to those aged 18 and over with a minimum of 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above (including Maths, English, and Science).

About Leading Edge Aviation
Leading Edge Aviation is a rapidly expanding pilot training academy with a fresh approach and an emphasis on holistic training. In addition to enjoying the highest standards of regulatory technical training, students also benefit from a comprehensive professional and personal development curriculum to enhance non-technical skills (in industry circles now referred to as “The Whole Pilot”).

Based both at London Oxford Airport and Alhama, Southern Spain, Leading Edge Aviation offers a range of modular and integrated training programmes, including the innovative LEAP (Leading Edge Airline Preparation) course; a full-time integrated course with BSc degree (UK only) and a comprehensive graduate airline selection preparation workshop. Facilities at both locations support a comprehensive educational experience, combining modern aircraft and simulators, advanced learning technologies, and a vibrant student living environment.

Leading Edge also delivers modular training (including Ground School, MECPL, CBIR, MEIR, uMAP (university Modular Airline Preparation), A-UPRT (Advanced Upset Prevention Recovery Training), APC MCC (Airline Pilot Standards Multi Crew Co-operation) at its UK base in Oxford.

Source: Leading Edge Aviation
Photo Credit: Leading Edge Aviation

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Flight School Management and Aircraft Tracking Solutions Provider, Private-Radar, Celebrates a Decade of Innovation and Excellence

Private-Radar, a global leader in Flight School Management and Aircraft Tracking Solutions, is proud to celebrate its 10th anniversary, marking a decade of pioneering innovation and outstanding service in the aviation training industry.

Since its founding in 2014, Private-Radar has transformed how flight schools and aero clubs manage and monitor their operations. Over the past decade, Private-Radar has evolved into a trusted and essential partner for aviation training institutions around the world, including several of the largest industry leaders. Today, Private Radar’s state-of-the-art solutions drive automation, enhance safety, and improve efficiency for over 100 partners across more than 30 countries.

It all started with a near miss

While earning his Private Pilot License in 2011, Prisque, the founder and CEO of Private-Radar, experienced a close call when his Cessna 172 narrowly avoided a mid-air collision with another small aircraft. This encounter highlighted a need for better flight safety measures and inspired Prisque to develop an advanced, real-time flight tracking system that would improve the safety of flight schools and optimize electronic flight records.

This led to the creation of Private-Radar, an innovative Flight School Management Software combined with an Aircraft Live Tracking Solution. Today, Private-Radar is the most advanced, fully featured Flight School Management Solution on the market. Streamlining operations and enhancing safety, by providing flight schools and aero clubs with effortless scheduling, hassle-free record-keeping, real-time aircraft tracking, fully synchronized flight data collection and much more.

Key achievements over the past decade

Global Expansion: Private-Radar has expanded its services to over 100 partners worldwide. We work with a wide array of organizations, including large scale leading pilot training operations, aero clubs, helicopter pilot schools and simulator only sites.

Tailored Solutions: Private-Radar’s dedication to customizing its platform to meet the specific needs of each partner has fostered a loyal user base and earned a reputation for excellence in service and support.

Continued Innovation: Private-Radar conduct an active dialogue and collaboration with their partners, ensuring the system evolves to meet their unique needs. By actively listening to feedback and prioritizing requested features, Private-Radar continuously enhances its platform with new updates and improvements that align with partner requirements.

Celebrate with Private-Radar at EATS 2024

To mark this milestone, we are inviting all EATS 2024 attendees to join us at Booth 514 to explore our latest upgrades, engage with our team, and participate in a very special 10th anniversary competition!

Prisque Lemble, Founder and CEO of Private-Radar, shared: “We are incredibly proud of our achievements over the past ten years. Our success reflects our unwavering commitment to innovation, quality, and service. As we look to the future, we remain dedicated to delivering top-tier solutions for our partners and expanding to new flight schools or aero clubs, that are looking to streamline their operations.”

Source: Private-Radar
Photo Credit: Private-Radar

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Full Flight Simulator Manufacturer, AXIS Flight Simulation, Launches VR Solution for Business Jet Pilot Training

Austria – Full-flight simulator manufacturer AXIS Flight Simulation (AXIS), on October 31, 2024, unveiled its Virtual Cockpit Procedure and Walkaround Trainer (VPT), a cutting-edge training solution powered by virtual and mixed reality (VR/MR) technologies.

Instantly available for business jet pilot training for a Bombardier CL350, AXIS can design tailored VPT solutions for different aircraft types upon request. The VPT headset uses state-of-the-art hand and eye tracking capabilities to offer a high level of immersion. The system can be used as a standalone product to deliver a flexible learning experience with minimal hardware requirements or be integrated into AXIS’ existing processes. It can be used at any stage of training for tasks such as system familiarisation, ground operations, flight procedures and emergency scenarios.

The built-in AI instructor provides real-time support by answering questions on aircraft systems, controls and functions. Using a hand gesture, trainees can activate the AI assistant to receive spoken guidance, supplemented by visuals and relevant manual sections.

Christian Theuermann, member of the executive board, AXIS Flight Simulation, says “Our VPT will significantly advance the realism and efficiency of pilot training. As one of the first manufacturers to offer VR training for business jets, coupled with innovative features such as hand-tracking, we are proud to offer this solution to the market.”

AXIS’ VPT was designed in collaboration with software development studio Propair Flight (Propair), an independent company within the AXIS Group.

Peter Kesmarki managing director, Propair Flight says: “Working with AXIS to deliver the VPT is hugely rewarding. Our joint expertise in VR and MR technologies ensures we are providing pilots with an advanced and immersive training tool that boosts preparedness and enhances safety standards across the industry.”

About AXIS Flight Simulation
AXIS Flight Simulation is the leading global provider of advanced flight training solutions. With a comprehensive product range covering ATRs, business jets, small turboprop aircraft, as well as specialized aircraft for SAR and research and measurement purposes, AXIS Flight Simulation offers a wide range of training devices and full flight simulators. Its suite of products set a new worldwide benchmark in availability and efficiency, and offer the most realistic flight experience possible for its customers.

Part of the larger AXIS Aviation group, AXIS Flight Simulation is headquartered in Austria and has offices in Canada and Hungary.

Source: AXIS Flight Simulation
Photo Credit: AXIS Flight Simulation

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eVTOL Developer Eve Air Mobility Selects Embraer-CAE Training Services as Training Partner

Melbourne, Florida, USA – Eve Air Mobility (Eve) (NYSE: EVEX; EVEXW) and Embraer-CAE Training Services (ECTS), a joint venture between Embraer (NYSE: ERJ; B3: EMBR3) and CAE Inc. (CAE) (NYSE: CAE), announced that ECTS has been selected as the training provider for Eve’s electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft pilots, maintenance technicians and ground handling personnel. The services will be part of the recently announced Eve TechCare, the company’s all-in-one service portfolio for eVTOLs.

“We are delighted to partner with Embraer-CAE Training Services, which will ensure pilots, maintenance technicians, and ground crew will receive top-notch training for safe and efficient operation of our eVTOL aircraft,” said Luiz Mauad, Vice President of Customer Services at Eve. “This partnership not only underscores our commitment to safety and operational excellence but also equips our and operators’ teams with the necessary skills to offer outstanding customer service.”

“We are excited to embark on this journey with Eve Air Mobility to usher in a new era of flight,” said Carlos Naufel, President & CEO Embraer Services & Support and ECTS Chairman. “As the training provider for Eve Air Mobility, ECTS will ensure pilots, maintenance technicians and ground personnel receive specialized training and acquire the skill and confidence to safely operate Eve’s eVTOL in and around the world’s busiest urban centres.”

“Safety will be essential to the adoption and growth of advanced air mobility (AAM), and highly trained personnel are key to safe operations,” said Alexandre Prevost, CAE’s Division President, Business Aviation Training and ECTS Board Member. “As part of the long-term agreement, CAE will be responsible for producing all equipment and courseware for pilot, maintenance, and ground handling training for Eve Air Mobility. CAE continues to make significant investments in AAM to deliver innovative and immersive products and training solutions that are specifically tailored to the industry and today’s learners.”

The joint venture between Embraer and CAE, established in 2007, began with a contract to provide pilot and ground crew training for Embraer’s Phenom 100 and Phenom 300 customers. Today, the JV operates nine full-flight simulators globally, with more slated for 2025. Earlier this year, it marked a significant milestone by launching the first E2 full-flight simulator in Asia, further strengthening its growth trajectory. Leveraging CAE’s extensive global network of training centers, ECTS ensures comprehensive training coverage, delivering the high-quality customer experience that has become a hallmark of its service.

Eve boasts the industry’s largest backlog with letters of intent (LOI) for 2,900 eVTOLs from 30 customers in 13 countries, representing a potential USD$14.5 billion in sales revenue. Its aircraft utilizes eight dedicated rotors for vertical flight and fixed wings to fly in cruise, with no change in the position of these components during flight. The concept includes an electric pusher powered by dual electric motors that provide propulsion redundancy to ensure the highest performance levels, safety, dispatch reliability, and low operation costs.

Eve takes advantage of Embraer’s 55 years of experience in designing, certifying, and manufacturing state-of-the-art aircraft. Its customers will also benefit from having access to an existing global service and support network, which is critical to ensuring reliable, safe, and efficient UAM operations.

About Eve Air Mobility
Eve Air Mobility is dedicated to accelerating the Urban Air Mobility ecosystem. Benefitting from a start-up mindset, backed by Embraer S.A.’s 55-year history of aerospace expertise, and with a singular focus, Eve is taking a holistic approach to progressing the UAM ecosystem, with an advanced eVTOL project, comprehensive global services and support network and a unique air traffic management solution. Since May 10, 2022, Eve is listed on the New York Stock Exchange where its shares of common stock and public warrants trade under the tickers “EVEX” and “EVEXW”.

About Embraer
Embraer is a global company headquartered in Brazil with businesses in commercial and executive aviation, and defense & security. The company designs, develops, manufactures, and markets aircraft and systems, providing customer support and services. Since it was founded in 1969, Embraer has delivered more than 9,000 aircraft. About every 10 seconds, an aircraft manufactured by Embraer takes off somewhere in the world, transporting over 150 million passengers a year. Embraer is the leading manufacturer of commercial jets up to 150 seats. The company maintains industrial units, offices, service and parts distribution centers, among other activities, across the Americas, Africa, Asia and Europe.

About CAE
At CAE, we equip people in critical roles with the expertise and solutions to create a safer world. As a technology company, we digitalize the physical world, deploying software-based simulation training and critical operations support solutions. Above all else, we empower pilots, cabin crew, maintenance technicians, airlines, business aviation operators, and defence and security forces to perform at their best every day and when the stakes are the highest. Around the globe, we’re everywhere customers need us to be with approximately 13,000 employees in more than 240 sites and training locations in over 40 countries. CAE represents more than 75 years of industry firsts—the highest-fidelity flight and mission simulators as well as training programs powered by digital technologies. We embed sustainability in everything we do. Today and tomorrow, we’ll make sure our customers are ready for the moments that matter.

Source: Eve Air Mobility
Photo Credit: Eve Air Mobility

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