IATA Announces 2024 Appointment for Senior Manager of Pilot Training and Licensing

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has announced the appointment of Andrés Ospina, MRAeS, as the new Senior Manager of Pilot Training and Licensing. Capt. Ospina, who has accumulated extensive experience throughout his career, expressed that this new position represents one of the most significant milestones in his professional journey saying, “After many experiences I’ve lived through, today I reach another dream, perhaps the greatest one of my professional life, and I hope to stay here for the rest of my career.

To know more about IATA or Mr. Ospina, connect with him through his LinkedIn Profile.

Source: Andrés Ospina

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Operating One of the Largest Flight Schools in Europe – Portugal’s Sevenair Academy

In this week’s AFM Pilot Training Leadership Interview Series AFM’s Customer Success & Business Development Manager Agata Marszalek speaks with Carlos Amaro – CEO of Sevenair Academy – one of the largest flight training organisations based at Ponte de Sor, Portugal.

The conversation covers:

  • Independent Growth and Expansion: Sevenair Academy has grown substantially, now independently owned by Carlos and his partner after separating from Sevenair Group. Located in Ponte de Sor, Portugal, the academy boasts 45 aircraft and a campus that accommodates up to 600 cadets, making it one of Europe’s largest training facilities.
  • Advanced Training Infrastructure: The academy benefits from a dedicated runway, advanced ILS (Instrument Landing System), extensive facilities, and optimal weather for flight training, with about 330 flyable days per year. These resources, combined with a robust fleet and new simulators, create ideal conditions for training pilots.
  • Partnerships and Pilot Shortage Solutions: Sevenair Academy collaborates with airlines like Luxair on sponsored cadet programs, aiming to address pilot shortages by supporting cadets financially and guaranteeing employment. They are also in talks with government bodies to explore cost-free training programs for talented cadets, hoping to make pilot training accessible regardless of financial background.
  • Safety and Quality Focus: Safety is a core value, with Sevenair prioritizing a strong safety culture embedded throughout its facilities and training protocols.
  • Advocacy for Industry Changes: Carlos highlighted challenges in the European pilot training sector, such as the shortage of qualified instructors, and advocates for regulatory adjustments to simplify instructor certification.

For more information:

You can find all of the AFM.aero Pilot Training Industry Interview Episodes here.

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US Aviation Academy Acquires Assets of Flyt Aviation in Atlanta, Georgia

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, is pleased to announce its acquisition of the assets of Flyt Aviation, a well-established flight school based at Falcon Field in Peachtree City, Georgia.

This acquisition marks US Aviation Academy’s expansion into the greater Atlanta area, bringing its renowned flight training programs and industry expertise to a new region in response to increasing demand for skilled pilots.

Falcon Field (KFFC) is an ideal location for the expansion, providing a state-of-the-art facility in a vibrant aviation community. The acquisition of Flyt Aviation’s assets enables US Aviation Academy to offer a full range of flight training services, from Private Pilot Certificates to advanced commercial training, in the bustling Atlanta market. With this strategic move, US Aviation Academy aims to deliver top-tier flight instruction to local and international students, creating new opportunities for individuals pursuing professional pilot careers.

This acquisition represents a significant step forward in our mission to expand access to quality aviation training nationwide,” said Mike Sykes, CEO of US Aviation Academy. “We are excited to bring our proven training programs and experienced instructors to the Atlanta area and to provide a new gateway for aspiring pilots in Atlanta Georgia and beyond.

The new Atlanta campus at Falcon Field will initially operate under Part 61, allowing for flexible, personalized training schedules that can accelerate students’ paths to their goals. With Part 141 certification pending FAA approval, US Aviation Academy plans to expand its offerings to meet the needs of a diverse student population, including those seeking structured, accelerated career pathways and self-examining authority.

Through the integration of Flyt Aviation’s assets, US Aviation Academy reaffirms its commitment to innovation, safety, and excellence in aviation education. The Falcon Field location will benefit from US Aviation Academy’s extensive resources and expertise, providing students with access to well-maintained aircraft, advanced training technology, and a curriculum aligned with the needs of the modern aviation industry.

About US Aviation Academy
US Aviation Academy, headquartered in Denton, Texas, is a premier flight training and aircraft maintenance education provider, serving students from around the world. Known for its rigorous training programs, experienced instructors, and commitment to student success, US Aviation Academy offers a range of courses designed to meet the demands of the aviation industry. With locations across the United States, US Aviation Academy is dedicated to preparing the next generation of skilled pilots and aviation professionals.

Source: US Aviation Academy

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Flight Simulator Manufacturer FTD.aero Secures Recurrent Qualifications for APS MCC Simulators in Italy and Poland

FTD.aero is pleased to announce the successful EASA recurrent qualifications for its FNPT II APS MCC flight training devices at both Urbe Aero Flight Academy in Rome, Italy, and VDL Aviation in Warsaw, Poland. These certifications, completed in October, reflect FTD.aero’s unwavering commitment to maintaining the highest standards of quality, operational readiness, and regulatory compliance.

Each simulator, meticulously crafted to support the rigorous APS MCC training requirements, offers students a realistic airliner cockpit experience designed to enhance their hands-on skills. Through comprehensive on-site inspections and rigorous testing by NAA inspectors, both devices not only met but also surpassed key regulatory standards, reaffirming their robust operational integrity and resilience.

After over a year of intensive use, these devices have demonstrated exceptional reliability, supported by FTD.aero’s dedicated Customer Support team. This team ensures that simulators remain in optimal condition, safeguarding uninterrupted training schedules and promoting superior learning outcomes. FTD.aero’s proactive support services, including software updates, hardware upgrades, real-time monitoring, and preventive maintenance, are instrumental in maintaining maximum uptime and smooth training operations for Urbe Aero and VDL Aviation.

Source: FTD.aero

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