Market Intelligence: Europe

Global Aviation Conglomerate Highlights 2024 Challenges and Innovations in Pilot Training

Vilnius, Lithuania – headquartered global aviation training solution provider BAA Training, which operates full flight simulator training centers and flight schools around the globe, reflects on the aviation industry in 2024 as a year of innovation and operational challenges, detailing significant impacts on pilot training amid industry-wide disruptions and advancements.

Key Highlights from 2024

  • Aircraft Delivery Delays: Opportunities and Challenges
    • Boeing and Airbus delivery schedules ran 30% below target, with a backlog of 17,000 aircraft leading to a 14-year delivery timeline.
    • Airlines increasingly relied on wet and dry leasing aircraft, creating uncertainty in pilot training schedules.
    • Delays provided opportunities for initial pilot training programs, preparing pilots for operational readiness in alignment with delayed fleet arrivals.

    “Pilots aren’t a resource you can put on pause,” stated Martynas Mazeika, Chief Sales Officer at BAA Training. “Training must remain proactive, ensuring pilots are ready when operations demand.”

  • Momentum for Multi-Crew Pilot License (MPL) Programs
    • MPL programs gained prominence, streamlining pilot pathways and addressing pilot shortages.
    • Airlines adopting MPL have shown no signs of reverting to traditional CPL with Type Rating routes.
    • MPL’s appeal lies in offering a faster, targeted training solution amid the evolving perception of the pilot profession.

    “MPL aligns with modern airline needs, providing innovative cadet programs that appeal to aspiring pilots and support workforce recovery,” Mazeika noted.

  • AI and Automation in Pilot Training
    • AI-driven simulators enhanced personalized training, adapting to real-time pilot behavior.
    • Automation shifted pilot roles toward system management, emphasizing situational awareness and decision-making.
    • Future integration of AI is expected to optimize training schedules, introduce virtual instructors, and simulate advanced scenarios.

    “Staying ahead of technology trends is essential for long-term industry readiness,” Mazeika added.

Source: Avia Solutions Group

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US Flight Training Group Hillsboro Aero Academy to Exhibit at Pilot Expo 2025 in February in Brussels

Brussels, Belgium – The upcoming Pilot Expo 2025, taking place on February 21–22, will feature Hillsboro Aero Academy, a leading US-based flight training provider. The academy is set to showcase its comprehensive training programs designed to prepare pilots for global aviation careers.

  • Hillsboro Aero Academy offers dual FAA and EASA licensing programs, enabling students to pursue careers in both US and European markets.
  • The academy partners with Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air to provide direct career pathways for graduates.
  • Located in Oregon, USA, the academy provides training for both airplane and helicopter licenses in a dynamic flight environment.
  • Attendees at the Pilot Expo 2025 in Brussels will have the opportunity to learn more about Hillsboro Aero Academy’s unique offerings.

About Hillsboro Aero Academy
Hillsboro Aero Academy, based in Oregon, USA, is a renowned flight training provider offering airplane and helicopter pilot training. The academy specializes in dual FAA and EASA licensing programs and maintains partnerships with leading airlines to facilitate career placements for its graduates.

Source: Pilot Expo
Photo Credit: Pilot Expo

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APC Announces New CEO and Financing to Accelerate AI Platform Amelia’s Growth

The Airline Pilot Club (APC), a leader in aviation recruitment and training powered by cutting-edge AI solutions, is proud to announce the appointment of Cedric Paillard as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). This leadership transition comes as APC prepares to close a corporate round of financing, positioning the company to launch an ambitious expansion of features for its flagship AI platform Amelia, in 2025.

Leadership for Growth and Innovation

Cedric Paillard brings a wealth of experience from both high-tech industries and aviation, having led multi-million-dollar global projects in various technology innovation including wireless communication and AI and alongside his achievements as an Airline Transport Pilot. As the driving force behind Amelia’s development, Cedric has shaped its evolution into a transformative platform for Evidence Based Training and competency-based pilot recruitment and training.

A Legacy of Leadership

Outgoing CEO Andy O’Shea, who has been key to establishing APC as a trusted name in the aviation industry, will remain actively involved as Executive Chairman of the Board. With over 18 years as Head of Training at Ryanair, and as Chair of the EASA Aircrew Training Policy Group, Andy’s expertise will continue to drive APC’s strategic partnerships with flight schools, Approved Training Organizations (ATOs), and airlines.

Transformative Financing to Power 2025 and Beyond

APC is in the final stages of closing a new round of financing, which will fund an accelerated roadmap for Amelia in 2025. These developments include the introduction of advanced features such as:

  • Enhanced predictive analytics for pilot performance and training needs.
  • Expanded scenario-based training scenarios using AI-driven adaptive learning.
  • New applications for non-pilot aviation roles, including cabin crew and maintenance staff.
  • Deeper integration with industry standards like CBTA and EBT frameworks, ensuring regulatory compliance and operational excellence.

“Andy’s unwavering dedication and vision have built APC into what it is today—a leader in aviation recruitment and training,” said Cedric Paillard. “As we look to the future, I am honored to lead APC into its next phase of innovation and growth. Amelia’s success has already been demonstrated through partnerships with leading customers where we’ve delivered measurable outcomes, including faster recruitment cycles and improved training efficiency.”

“This financing round empowers us to expand Amelia’s capabilities, integrating predictive analytics, AI-driven training simulations, and applications beyond pilot training, ensuring that APC remains at the forefront of innovation for the aviation industry,” Cedric added.

Driving Industry Impact

APC’s AI platform Amelia has already demonstrated measurable success, helping airlines drive efficiencies in recruitment and enabling them to realise the efficiencies provided by EBT, while improving operational safety and efficiency. This financing will ensure APC continues to deliver solutions that address the global pilot shortage, drive innovation and safety, and support the aviation industry’s future growth.

About APC

The Airline Pilot Club (APC) is a technology leader in aviation recruitment and training. Powered by AI, APC’s flagship platform, Amelia, transforms pilot selection, training, and career development through personalized, competency-based solutions. APC connects aspiring and qualified pilots with flight schools and airlines, ensuring excellence across the aviation talent pipeline.

Source: APC
Photo Credit: APC

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BAA Training Spain Explores Expanding into Helicopter Rescue Training Capabilities in 2025

Spain – Global pilot training group BAA Training, which operates full flight simulator training centers and flight schools, Spain base BAA Training Spain hosted Gemma Badia, the Mayor of Gavà, and her team for a visit that highlighted the facility’s role in pilot training and its commitment to community support. The visit emphasized the academy’s capabilities and plans to expand its training offerings including discussions on how BAA Training can support helicopter rescue operations. Plans include accommodating specialized equipment at the Gavà facility to enhance helicopter rescue training capabilities.

Source: BAA Training Spain
Photo Credit: BAA Training Spain

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Global FFS Training Center Operator Simaero is Seeking to Hire a Deputy Training Operations Manager for Paris in January 2025

Paris, France – Simaero, a global leader in pilot training and flight simulator services, is seeking to hire a Deputy Training Operations Manager for its Approved Training Organization (ATO) in Paris. This role involves driving operational excellence, enhancing training programs, and ensuring high client satisfaction across its EASA-certified training network.

Key Responsibilities

  • Prepare for ATO audits and ensure compliance with aviation regulations
  • Collaborate with the sales team to expand the training portfolio
  • Oversee and deliver end-to-end training activities, monitoring service satisfaction KPIs
  • Develop instructor engagement and retention programs
  • Contribute to designing Threat and Error Management (TRM) courses
  • Participate in simulator flight training sessions
  • Lead transformation projects, including IT initiatives

Candidate Profile

  • Former airline pilot with instructor qualification (mandatory)
  • Experience in aviation training services and project management
  • Results-driven and business-oriented mindset
  • Strong proficiency in English (written and spoken)
  • Skilled in MS Office, CRM, project management, and aeronautical regulations
  • Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to build client relationships and develop new training offerings

What Simaero Offers

  • A dynamic, international work environment with strong growth (+25% annually)
  • Flexible working conditions and a supportive, close-knit team
  • Competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, access to a corporate restaurant, and employee savings plans (PEE and PERECO)

To apply, please submit your resume to the Simaero careers team or apply through the LinkedIn job post.

Source: Simaero

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Portuguese Flight School Sevenair Academy Welcomes New ATPL Class to Begin Training in 2025

Portugal – based Sevenair Academy has announced the commencement of its ATPL(A) Class 01/25 (around 13 cadets) as the academy begins training a new group of aspiring pilots in 2025. The ATPL(A) program (Airline Transport Pilot License) is Sevenair Academy’s flagship offering, designed to prepare cadets for professional airline pilot careers.

Sevenair Academy shared its metrics for 2024 including:

  • 160 new students enrolled in 2024
  • 128 graduated
  • 349 open day candidates
  • 2 new partnerships including Luxair Sponsorship Program and Icelandic Aviation Training
  • Tecnam aircraft was the most flown aircraft in its fleet
  • Moved all of its flight training operation to Ponte de Sor

Source: Sevenair Academy
Photo Credit: Sevenair Academy

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Pilot Assessment Solution Provider Symbiotics Highlights Free Pilot Readiness Test for Aspiring Cadets in 2025

United Kingdom – headquartered Symbiotics, a leading provider of pilot assessment solutions, has highlighted its Free Pilot Readiness Test aimed at assisting prospective cadets in evaluating their potential to begin pilot training.

  • The test is designed to help aspiring pilots assess their readiness for the demanding and costly journey of pilot training.
  • It incorporates elements of the pilot aptitude testing process, with sections covering Maths, Physics, English, and Cognitive skills.
  • The test provides a breakdown of strengths and areas for improvement, allowing candidates to focus their preparation before applying to flight schools.
  • Symbiotics encourages flight schools and training providers to share the readiness indicator with potential cadets to streamline recruitment processes for 2025 pilot training programs.

Source: Symbiotics
Photo Credit: Symbiotics

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