India Aviation Regulator DGCA Announces Latest Appointment for Deputy Chief Flight Operations Inspector

India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has appointed Sweety Silvester as the new Deputy Chief Flight Operations Inspector.

“This appointment signifies not just a career milestone; but an opportunity to continue my journey of growth and contribution to the aviation industry,” said Silvester. “Together, let us embark on this journey to lead, inspire, and elevate aviation to new heights of excellence.”

Learn more about India DGCA or Silvester by connecting with him through his LinkedIn profile here.

Source: Sweety Silvester (India DGCA)
Photo Credit: Sweety Silvester (India DGCA)

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Global Pilot Training Group AeroGuard Welcomes Delegation of Asian Partner Airline at Phoenix Headquarters

AeroGuard Flight Training Center welcomed Taiwan-based China Airlines at its Phoenix, Arizona campus. This visit comes after AeroGuard’s announcement to train the airline’s cadet pilots, marking the beginning of an exciting partnership in preparing professional pilots for long and successful careers.

“We enjoyed China Airlines’ company and are thrilled to welcome their first class of cadets, who also arrived last week and have begun their training with AeroGuard,” said AeroGuard.

Earlier in March 2024 AeroGuard Flight Training Center announced the new partnership with Taiwan-based China Airlines. Within this agreement, AeroGuard will be the flight training provider for China Airlines’ cadet pilots, further establishing AeroGuard’s global reputation for high quality pilot training. Throughout this 11-month program approved by the Civil Aviation Administration (CAA), cadets will apply directly through China Airlines and be screened by the airline before arriving at AeroGuard. Selected cadets will join AeroGuard’s Phoenix, Arizona location where they will experience an exceptional flight training environment with year-round flying weather, ideal airspace availability and complexity, and additional student support.

AeroGuard was selected by China Airlines to train their cadet pilots due to its structured curriculum and high-quality ab initio training programs, with 20+ years of experience producing qualified and capable pilots for the world’s leading airlines. China Airlines is one of Taiwan’s largest national airlines and within this partnership AeroGuard will provide a pipeline of highly skilled pilots for the airline.

China Airlines will join other renowned airlines that have selected AeroGuard as the flight school for their cadet training programs, including Hong Kong’s leading airline, Cathay Pacific. AeroGuard also recently announced its selection by Air India to train their cadet pilots as part of a new similar agreement for the Indian flag carrier.

AeroGuard’s CEO, Joel Davidson, spoke on the agreement stating, “Being selected by China Airlines is a prominent achievement for AeroGuard. This collaboration not only strengthens AeroGuard’s global footprint, but also demonstrates the trust that industry leaders like China Airlines have in our flight training capabilities. AeroGuard is honored to contribute to the development of the next generation of pilots for such a reputable airline and we look forward to producing the best pilots for airlines across the globe.

This partnership comes at a time of strategic expansion for AeroGuard as its training capacity and resources quickly expand to solidify its position as a leader in ab initio pilot training for leading airlines all over the world. AeroGuard currently operates a fleet of 100 aircraft and over 200+ instructors and expects to more than double its fleet size with a recent order of 90 additional planes from Piper Aircraft, in addition to further acquisitions. Through its large U.S. Program, 600+ students are also expected to become instructors to build their 1,500 hours to fly for the U.S. airlines. From this growth, AeroGuard expects to double its capacity to train up to 2,000 students across its three campuses.

AeroGuard continues to expand its high-quality flight training on a global scale and establish valuable partnerships with leading airlines all over the world.

Source: AeroGuard Flight Training Center
Photo Credit: AeroGuard Flight Training Center

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US Flight Training Group, Hillsboro Aero Academy, Places Order for 10 New Piper Aircraft

Training aircraft manufacturer Piper Aircraft, Inc. announced the purchase of five Archer TX and five Pilot 100i aircraft for Hillsboro Aero Academy, a global leader in airplane and helicopter pilot training. The first delivery of these aircraft is scheduled for early 2027.

“We’re excited to collaborate with Hillsboro Aero Academy in supplying cutting-edge training aircraft and look forward to welcoming them into the Piper Flight School Alliance,” said Ron Gunnarson, VP of Marketing, Sales & Customer Support at Piper Aircraft. “Piper is known for providing flight schools with durable and reliable trainers, and we’re confident these aircraft will help them grow their mission to provide thorough and cost-effective flight training to students in the world’s finest training aircraft.”

Aligned in their unwavering dedication to safety, quality, and student achievement, Hillsboro Aero Academy and Piper Aircraft continue to shape the future of aviation together with the purchase of these 10 new Piper trainers to add to their fleet.

“Our commitment at Hillsboro Aero Academy is to provide top-notch training for our students, and these new aircraft will be pivotal in achieving that objective. The Piper brand represents aviation excellence, and we’re positive these aircraft will equip our students for success in their aviation careers,” stated Nik Kresse, Vice President of Airplane Operations at Hillsboro Aero Academy. “We are pleased to announce the purchase of these 10 new aircraft from Piper, and look forward to this new partnership.”

About Hillsboro Aero Academy

For four decades, thousands of pilots from more than 75 countries have started their career paths with Hillsboro Aero Academy, earning us a global reputation as one of the world’s top flight schools. Our focus on career readiness is still matched by our founding belief in personal attention, mentorship, and support. HAA delivers an extended visa option for international students, an industry-leading reputation, the industry’s top safety certification, and one of the world’s most diverse flight environments.

About Piper Aircraft

Piper Aircraft Inc., headquartered in Vero Beach, Fl., offers aviators throughout the world efficient and reliable single and twin-engine aircraft and is the first general aviation aircraft manufacturer in the world to certify Garmin Autoland. The single-engine M-Class series – the M700 FURY, M500, and M350 – offers businesses and individuals elegant performance, value and a superior ownership experience. The Personal Class, Archer LX and Archer DLX balance proven performance, efficiency, and simplicity in a piston-powered aircraft. The Trainer Class Pilot 100i, Archer TX, Archer DX, and Seminole aircraft form the most complete technically advanced line of pilot training aircraft in the world. Piper is a member of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association. To learn more about Piper Aircraft, visit the company’s website at www.piper.com.

Source: Piper Aircraft
Photo Credit: Piper Aircraft

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US Flight Training Organisation, Phoenix East Aviation, and MzeroA Online Ground School Join Forces to Propel Aviation Education Forward

Florida, United States headquartered Phoenix East Aviation (PEA) proudly announces its selection of MzeroA Online Ground School (MzeroA) as the exclusive ground school provider for its Part 141 flight training courses. This collaboration marks an innovative advancement in the quality of modern aviation education for aspiring pilots. With MzeroA’s leading edge content, and a proven track record of success preparing over 150,000 students for exams, PEA students will benefit from comprehensive and consistent instruction with around the clock availability throughout their training.

“As a passionate advocate for pilot education and training excellence, I am excited to be teaming with MzeroA to improve our training curriculum. We are not only enhancing access to top-tier instructional resources and  proven training techniques, but we are joining with the loyal members of the MzeroA Nation to share our dedication to elevating aviation education standards.” – Kristoffer (KJ) Johnson, CEO & President of Phoenix East Aviation.

“As the founder of MzeroA, I am thrilled to announce the launch of our Part 141 product during Sun N’ Fun.  Our content and methods have been training pilots under Part 61 for many years and this week marks our entrance into Part 141 flight training by a major domestic and international flight school with a long history. This collaboration represents a fusion of two industry leaders dedicated to shaping the future of aviation education. Together, with Phoenix East Aviation, we are positioned to equip a new generation of pilots with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the dynamic world of aviation.” – Jason Schappert, Founder & President of MzeroA.

About Phoenix East Aviation

With a legacy spanning over half a century, PEA has been at the forefront of global pilot training welcoming students from diverse backgrounds both domestically and worldwide. Operating from three premier locations in Florida, with a modern fleet of over 65 aircraft, PEA is committed to educating skilled aviation professionals for the launch of their professional career.  PEA is an accredited institution, authorized to issue both M-1 & F-1 visas, and offers traditional and accelerated programs.  Students enjoy uninterrupted timelines training year-round under PEA’s self-examining curriculums in a supportive campus environment.  PEA provides financing options, partner-based degree programs, regional and major airline pathway programs, and alumni networking opportunities.

About MzeroA Online Ground School

MzeroA has distinguished itself as a leading provider of online aviation education, offering learners a dynamic community and user-friendly systems designed to promote safety and proficiency in all aviation endeavors.  Through engaging online content, innovative instruction, and a user-friendly interface, MzeroA is revolutionizing aviation education, setting new standards for safety and mastery in the skies. Their aviation expertise and recent FAA approved  Part 141 courses, in addition to their popular and proven Part 61 offerings, as well as Remote Pilot programs, provide future aviators with a thorough foundation for success at an affordable price point. 

Source: Phoenix East Aviation
Photo Credit: Phoenix East Aviation

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Global Flight Training Group Skyborne and Indian Airline IndiGo Celebrate New Cadets in April 2024

Global pilot training group Skyborne Airline Academy, which operates pilot training bases in the United States and the United Kingdom, and IndiGo Airlines welcomed 14 new cadets to the IndiGo Cadet Pilot Programme during their Letter of Intent (LoI) ceremony in Gurgaon, India. Following a competitive application process, the successful cadets will commence the first phase of their flight training in the United States at the academy’s base in Florida before returning to India for their flight license conversion and type rating.

After successfully completing the programme, these graduates will go on to fly with India’s leading airline as A320 First Officers.

Sakshi Solanki, cadet in the IndiGo Cadet Pilot Programme with Skyborne, says: “While I was working at British Telecoms, I never felt fulfilled. That is when I decided to gather the courage to leave my job and begin studying maths and physics. I’m starting my career at 27, so age is not a deterrent to go after your dreams.”

Raj Ganatra, cadet in the IndiGo Cadet Pilot Programme with Skyborne, says: “I was determined to do my flight training in the US and a few of my friends were studying with Skyborne and only had good things to say. I still remember the day when I first travelled in an aircraft. I was sitting with my parents in the airport and I watched the pilots going by. I saw how they walked, their uniform, their lifestyle—that was the day I told my parents that I wanted to become a pilot.”

About Skyborne   

Skyborne Airline Academy is a modern airline training academy based at Vero Beach, Florida, United States, and Gloucestershire Airport in the United Kingdom. Established by industry experts, Skyborne brings a fresh approach to airline pilot training.     

Founders Tom Misner (chairman) and Lee Woodward (CEO) have unsurpassed experience in commercial aviation, education and training. It is their vision to create a training environment where the highest standard of teaching, safety and relevant airline-style training is maintained, and interactive learning is encouraged.     

Using a combination of tried and tested methods and the latest technology to assess competence, suitability, aptitude and resilience, Skyborne aims to recruit the very best candidates to minimize additional training, reduce failure rates and provide airlines with better pilots and cabin crew.     

Skyborne is proud to hold close relationships with the world’s leading airlines, offering opportunities for trainees as part of British Airways’ Speedbird Pilot Academy, the Propel Flight Academy by Delta, the IndiGo Cadet Pilot Programme, and the SkyWest Professional Pilot Pathway. www.skyborne.com

Source: Skyborne
Photo Credit: Skyborne

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UK Flag Carrier British Airways’ Speedbird Pilot Academy Cadet Programme Opens for New Applications in Second Year

The United Kingdom headquartered airline, British Airways, is opening the application window for the second year of its fully funded Speedbird Pilot Academy cadet scheme on Tuesday April 16, 2024. This follows an unprecedented response to its first year intake which saw more than 20,000 applications for just 100 places.

The Speedbird Pilot Academy initiative, part of the airline’s £7 billion investment across the business, is aimed at levelling the playing field and making a career as a commercial airline pilot a realistic option for all, by removing the previously prohibitive cost barrier of individuals having to pay for their training themselves.

British Airways’ Director of Flight Operations Simon Cheadle, said: “We’re incredibly proud to be able to open the door to a flying career to more people through this programme.

We know from the overwhelming response and high standard of applications we had in the first year of Speedbird Pilot Academy, that there are a lot of talented people who just need a little bit of help to achieve their dream of becoming a commercial airline pilot – and we are pleased to give them that opportunity.

We want to continue to attract the very best flying talent and our investment in this programme will help to ensure our future generation of pilots for years to come.”

Candidates will be able to apply for up to 100 places on the programme – that will see the approximate £100,000 cost of their training covered entirely by the airline – through the British Airways careers site from April 16, 2024.

About British Airways

As a global airline and the UK’s flag carrier, British Airways has been flying its customers to where they need to be for more than 100 years. The airline connects Britain with the world and the world with Britain, operating one of the most extensive international scheduled airline route networks together with its joint business, codeshare and franchise partners.

In September 2021, British Airways launched its sustainability programme, BA Better World, committing to put sustainability at the heart of everything it does and with a clear roadmap to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050. British Airways is a founding member of the airline alliance oneworld, which serves around 1,000 destinations across the globe.

British Airways flies to destinations in more than 75 countries. Its principal place of business is London, with its main home at Heathrow Terminal 5.

Source: British Airways
Photo Credit: British Airways

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New UAE Based Full Flight Simulator Training Center is Looking for a Manager – Training Safety, Compliance and Standards

Dubai, United Arab Emirates based airline flydubai is seeking a Manager – Training Safety, Compliance and Standards for its new full flight simulator training center.

Back in November 2023 flydubai announced plans to open a USD 56 million Full-Flight Simulator (FFS) and Training Facility. The construction work has already commenced and the advanced facility is scheduled to be fully operational by January 2025.

  • The purpose-built Full-Flight Simulator (FFS) and Training Facility for flydubai’s fleet of Boeing 737 aircraft
  • The new facility will feature six simulator bays to cater to the carrier’s training needs for its growing pilot community and will reduce its future training costs

Ghaith Al Ghaith, Chief Executive Officer at flydubai, said: “Over the last 14 years, flydubai has been on a tremendous growth trajectory that has seen the carrier evolve and innovate to become the airline it is today. The USD 56 million investment in the new training facility marks another milestone in our success story and reflects our unwavering commitment to operational efficiency and excellence. With more than 130 aircraft scheduled for delivery by 2035, the pressure of confirming available training slots with third-party simulator providers is alleviated by having our own simulator facility.”

The new 38,000 sq. ft facility is located on the grounds of the flydubai Campus and will be home to six simulator bays, offering capacity of more than 43,000 training hours a year. The building’s modular construction design allows for future expansion.

flydubai is now looking for a Manager – Training Safety, Compliance and Standards.

Key Responsibilities would include:

  • Manages and monitors compliance with applicable regulations for training organization approval certificates and current training devices.
  • Develops, proposes, implements, and maintains relevant manuals for the training organizations and the Operations Manual(s) – Part D (OM-D), ensuring strict compliance with relevant regulatory frameworks and IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) standards.
  • Implements an internal quality audit program to ensure training delivery aligns with established standards set out in the training organization manuals.
  • Coordinates and manages projects for obtaining and maintaining Approved Training Organization (ATO) certifications, full flight simulator Quality Control (QC), and Quality Test Guides (QTG) with relevant authorities as required (EASA, FAA, etc.)
  • Manages and maintains records of all required Certificates, Qualifications and Approvals, monitoring expiries and ensuring timely submission of revalidation applications.
  • Conducts quality control audits on third party providers to ensure compliance with regulations and the standards set by flydubai.
  • Maintains the Training department’s internal manuals, including Crew Training Processes, Procedures Manual and Trainer Standards Manual.
  • Conducts audits on Evidence-Based Training (EBT) audits and monitors compliance with required standards.
  • Develops, monitors, and presents Safety Performance Indicators (SPI’s) for the training organizations and departments.
  • Liaises with other department functions and attends required meetings, including Training Administration Group (TAG) meetings.
  • Ensures proactive project management by supporting stakeholders to reach targets.
  • Plans and ensures monthly FSTD fly-outs and oversees all Flight Simulator Training Device (FSTD) and other training devices continued qualifications.
  • Monitors FSTD performance and presents quarterly reports on overall performance.
  • Prepares monthly reports for the department head detailing Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and Safety Performance Indicators (SPIs) related to training.
  • Manages projects assigned by the department head.

Experience requirements include:

  • Years with Qualifications: 5
  • Professional Experience
    • Previous work experience within a compliance/safety or management role within an Approved Training Organization (ATO) is mandatory.
    • Broad experience with regulations from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), as well as the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) requirements pertaining to Organizational Requirements for Operators (ORO) and Organizational Requirements for Approved Training Organizations (ORA), is essential.
    • Systems Knowledge (if applicable): Aviation Training management systems, manual editing, compliance, and safety management systems

To learn more about this position position and to apply click here.

Source: flydubai

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Indian Flight Training Group Chimes Aviation Academy Announces Graduation of First Two IndiGo Cadet Batches

One of India’s largest flight training organiastions Chimes Aviation Academy (CAA), which operates two flight training bases, recently held its graduation ceremony for the first two batches of its IndiGo cadet pilot program (ICP 01 & ICP 02).

In addition to celebrating the graduation event, CAA also rejoiced in the outstanding success of their two aviators who have achieved remarkable victories by clinching prestigious awards:

  • Captain Agam Singh for Technical Knowledge Award
  • Captain Tejash Vashist for Overall Performance Award

Previously, CAA and IndiGo partnered to launch the Cadet Pilot Program (CPP) to source their Junior Flying Officers (JFOs). This program is designed to train aspiring pilots selected by IndiGo to attain their Commercial Pilot’s Licence (CPL-MEIR) and A320 Type Rating.

Chimes Aviation Academy is the currently the only Indian airline abinitio flight training partner which conducts all training in India.

Source: Chimes Aviation Academy
Photo Credit: Chimes Aviation Academy (shown as meta image)

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