Market Intelligence: Europe

Netherlands-based Dutch Aviation Trainers Expands Training Portfolio with Boeing 777 Programs

Dutch Aviation Trainers (DAT), a leading provider of pilot training solutions based in the Netherlands, has announced the addition of Boeing 777 training programs to its offerings. This expansion strengthens DAT’s position as a leading provider of pilot training solutions for both Embraer and Boeing aircraft.

Statements:

“Our decision to add the Boeing 777 to our training portfolio reflects our commitment to meeting the evolving needs of our clients,” said Paul ten Hof, CEO of Dutch Aviation Trainers. “Our team of experienced instructors is dedicated to delivering a training experience that consistently meets the highest standards of quality.”

In March this year Dutch Aviation Trainers announced that it has received approval to conduct Type Rating Examiner (TRE) and Synthetic Flight Examiner (SFE) training for the Embraer 170/190 and Embraer 190-E2 series aircraft.

Source: Dutch Aviation Trainers
Photo Credit: Dutch Aviation Trainers

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Czech Flight Training Group, F AIR, Introduces Airline Recruitment Preparation Course using B737NG Simulator

Prague, Czech Republic  – F AIR Flight School has launched a new Airline Recruitment Preparation Course, aimed at supporting commercial pilots as they prepare for airline selection processes. The course combines theoretical knowledge and practical simulator training to enhance candidate readiness for recruitment assessments.

  • Course Highlights:
    • 4 hours of ground training
    • 2 hours of simulator training on the FNPT II B738-800 simulator
  • The FNPT II B738-800 simulator, certified by EASA, is the same equipment used by airlines like Smartwings during recruitment processes.
  • The course offers optional modules, including:
    • CRM (Crew Resource Management) basics
    • MCC (Multi-Crew Cooperation) theory basics

Source: F AIR
Photo Credit: F AIR

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Global FFS Training Center Operator Simaero Welcomes Airline Head of Training to New Paris Training Center in December 2024

Paris, France – Simaero, a global provider of aviation training and flight simulator engineering solutions, has welcomed Fabien Milhaud, Head of Training at ASL Airlines France to see the progress of Simaero’s new training center in Paris which will operate an Airbus A350 full flight simulator. The CAE 7000XR Airbus A350-900 Full-Flight Simulator at its Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) training center is set to be training-ready by the end of the first quarter of 2025.

About SIMAERO
Simaero is a world-leading provider of pilot training on full-flight simulators and simulation engineering solutions. With five training centers strategically located in France (headquarters), South Africa, China, and India, Simaero trains over 5,000 pilots every year from 250+ civil and military carriers and 80+ countries. Their simulator fleet and training solutions cover the main commercial aircraft types, including Airbus, Boeing, ATR, and Embraer.

AFM Team note – ASL Airlines France operates 19 Boeing B737.

Source: SIMAERO
Photo Credit: SIMAERO

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UK-Headquartered Pilot Training Group Leading Edge Aviation Partners with TUI to Offer Student Pilots Clear Pathway to Employment

Oxford, United Kingdom – Leading Edge Aviation, which operates flight training bases in the United Kingdom and Spain, is thrilled to announce an innovative partnership with TUI Airline to launch a groundbreaking tagging scheme designed to provide student pilots with a clear, structured pathway to employment through conditional job offers.

Leading Edge Aviation, a trailblazer in flight training, is the first UK-based academy to collaborate with TUI on this pioneering tagging scheme, offering students an exciting new route into the aviation industry.

Through this scheme, TUI will identify talented student pilots at Leading Edge by assessing their performance through interviews, evaluations, and theoretical examinations. The airline’s UK pilot recruitment team will conduct testing and interviews to select students who demonstrate exceptional potential. Once “tagged,” these students will receive a conditional employment offer from TUI, contingent upon meeting specific milestones throughout their training

Kathryn Cleaver, TUI Pilot Manager, commented: “This initiative allows us to identify and nurture top talent early in their training, giving students the confidence and clarity they need to transition into professional flying careers. Leading Edge students are known for their exceptional dedication and potential, and we are excited to offer them the opportunity to launch their careers with TUI. We are committed to the development of graduate pilots, and we look forward to welcoming our first candidates in the summer of 2026.”

Andy McFarlane, CEO of Leading Edge Aviation, said: “At Leading Edge, we are passionate about providing our students with the best possible foundation for a long and successful career in aviation. Our partnership with TUI aligns with our ‘Whole Pilot’ training philosophy and reflects our mutual commitment to supporting the next generation of pilots through structured career pathways. This collaboration is a fantastic opportunity for our students to begin their careers with a globally respected airline.”

This partnership underscores the shared goal of TUI and Leading Edge to cultivate new talent in the aviation sector and address the industry’s growing need for skilled pilots. The tagging scheme offers aspiring pilots the assurance that their dedication and hard work will lead to clear career opportunities with one of the world’s most respected airlines.

About Leading Edge Aviation
Leading Edge Aviation is a rapidly expanding pilot training academy with a fresh approach and an emphasis on holistic training. Offering the highest standards of regulatory technical training, students also benefit from a comprehensive professional and personal development curriculum to enhance non-technical skills.

Based at London Oxford Airport and Alhama, Southern Spain with a commitment to holistic pilot development, 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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OSM Aviation Academy Signs New Partnership Agreement with Norwegian in December 2024

Global pilot training group OSM Aviation Academy and Norwegian have signed a partnership agreement, creating opportunities for students at the flight school to pursue a career with the airline after completing their pilot training.

“We are very pleased with this partnership with Norwegian, as it provides our students with a unique opportunity to start their careers as pilots in a well-established and recognized airline after completing their training. The fact that Norwegian has once again chosen to collaborate with us is proof that we are educating competent pilots who are attractive in the job market,” says Martin Floor, Managing Director of OSM Aviation Academy.

Many of the large international airlines are short on pilots. In the USA, several airlines have had to reduce their routes and cancel flights. Analyses show that the need for pilots will continue to increase going forward, and Norwegian estimates that they will need many new pilots in the coming years to meet planned growth in demand and an upcoming generational shift in the industry.

This is a great way for us to attract pilots. With this new agreement, we get the opportunity to get to know the cadets during their education. This also allows those who are hired by Norwegian to start working immediately while receiving Type-rating course for the aircraft the company operates, as well as other necessary theory and advanced training courses,” says Guro Poulsen, PEOPLE Director at Norwegian.

The partnership involves Norwegian actively participating in the training and selection of future candidates.

About OSM Aviation Academy
OSM Aviation Academy has trained pilots since 1963 and is shaping the future of aviation by offering first-class education for the next generation of pilots and services for airlines. OSM Aviation Academy aims to train enough qualified and competent pilots in the coming years. During pilot training, the focus is on reducing climate emissions and ensuring diversity in the industry. The flight school offers education in Norway, Sweden, and the USA.

Source: OSM Aviation Academy
Photo Credit: OSM Aviation Academy

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Regional Aircraft Manufacturer, Deutsche Aircraft, Appoints Nico Neumann as Co-CEO

Germany – Deutsche Aircraft, a leading regional aircraft manufacturer, has announced the appointment of Nico Neumann as Co-CEO alongside current CEO, Dave Jackson. Neumann will guide Deutsche Aircraft through its next phase, delivering the D328eco® aircraft to market by 2027. This role is part of a managed transition, with Neumann set to assume full CEO responsibilities for the Deutsche Aircraft-operated businesses in Munich and Leipzig by mid-2025. Dave Jackson will continue to support Neumann and the growing team, remaining as CEO of the parent company, Deutsche Aircraft Group.

Nico Neumann will assume the role of Co-CEO from 1 January 2025 and will relinquish his current position of Chief Operating Officer. Over the past 18 years, Neumann has held various operational positions within the Deutsche Aircraft and 328 Support Services, including Vice President of Operations and Programmes. In this capacity, he was responsible for developing the aircraft production programme and lead the supply chain team, as well as being a key point of contact with the German government. He was also part of the core team that identified and selected the location for the Final Assembly Line for the D328eco in Leipzig.

Neumann established a strong foundation in the aviation sector as a B2 certified engineer at 328 Support Services. He subsequently advanced to leadership roles, including Head of Avionics & Electric as well as Director of Production & Maintenance, where he successfully supervised numerous VIP modifications and maintenance programs for the global Dornier 328 fleet.

Dave Jackson has for over 18 years been CEO and Managing Director of 328SSG/Deutsche Aircraft. His leadership since 2006 has ensured the business turnaround of the company and continuous and safe operation of the worldwide Dornier 328 fleet, maintaining the company’s position as a leading regional aircraft OEM. Prior to his role at Deutsche Aircraft, he had over 20 years’ experience in the automotive and aviation sectors, specializing in business turnarounds, restructuring and development, including acquisitions, as well as sales, service, and logistics, in airframe and engine maintenance, component manufacturing, as well as regional airline ownership.

During this transition, Nico will work closely with newly appointed COO, Olaf Lawrenz, to ensure the smooth handover of responsibilities. Olaf brings a wealth of experience from companies like Airbus and Asco Industries, where he was VP Supply Chain, leading the Final Assembly Lines, Flight lines and Delivery Centres for the Airbus A320 in Hamburg. His expertise will be crucial in driving Deutsche Aircraft’s continued growth and success.

“This is an exciting time for Deutsche Aircraft,” said Dave Jackson, CEO of Deutsche Aircraft. “I am confident that with Nico’s leadership, experience and commitment to our values, the team will continue to reach new heights on our journey, towards aircraft entry into service.”

“I am thrilled to step into the role of Co-CEO and steer Deutsche Aircraft through this next phase of industrialization as we build towards our future.  I look forward to the collaboration with Olaf and the entire team,” said Nico Neumann, Co-CEO of Deutsche Aircraft.

Deutsche Aircraft remains committed to developing the next-generation turboprop aircraft, the D328eco, with its first flight scheduled for Q4 2025. The construction of the FAL at Leipzig/Halle Airport is well underway and scheduled to become operational around the same time.

Source: Deutsche Aircraft
Photo Credit: Deutsche Aircraft

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Airways Aviation ESMA Appointed Gold Diamond Service Centre

Global flight training group Airways Aviation, which operates pilot training academies across Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and India has shared that its France base Airways Aviation ESMAhas been appointed as a Gold Diamond Service Centre. This prestigious designation by Diamond Aircraft, reflects the excellence in maintenance, aircraft management, and customer service provided by its maintenance and engineering services.

Operating as an EASA-certified maintenance and aircraft management organisation with approval number FR.CAO.0090, Airways Aviation ESMA has demonstrated unparalleled expertise in maintaining and enhancing Diamond aircraft, as well as other industry-leading models.

Operational Excellence in 2024

In 2024, Airways Aviation ESMA carried out an impressive array of maintenance and inspections, emphasizing its technical proficiency:

  • 12x 2,000 Flight Hour Inspections
  • 15x 1,000 Flight Hour Inspections
  • 22x 200 Flight Hour Inspections
  • 39x 100 Flight Hour Inspections
  • 4x Diamond DA40 aircraft rebuilt from long-term storage to full operational capability
  • 10x engines replaced across several Diamond DA40 and DA42 aircraft

Expanded Capabilities and Innovations

Airways Aviation ESMA’s capabilities grew significantly during the year, with the acquisition of an Aircraft Paint Cabin that enabled the flight school to paint several complete Diamond DA40 aircraft and numerous DA42 fuselages and wings, ensuring superior aesthetics and enhanced functional finishes.

In addition, Airways Aviation ESMA undertook several complex composite structural repairs, including challenging wing repairs on DA40 and DA42 aircraft, thereby ensuring the structural integrity and airworthiness of these advanced machines.

Its expertise in aircraft modifications was further evidenced by the installation of new Bubble Canopy designs in 3x DA40 aircraft, improving pilot comfort and visibility.

On the avionics front, Airways Aviation ESMA successfully completed SBAS LPV Garmin equipment installations in 2x DA42 aircraft, thereby improving navigation accuracy and enhancing operational capabilities.

Digital Transformation and Efficiency Gains

In 2024, Airways Aviation ESMA achieved complete operational digitisation, eliminating all physical paperwork. The result is a fully digital workflow with Work Orders (WOs) and digital checklists, streamlining our processes and significantly increasing the efficiency of our technical office.

“Being designated as a Gold Diamond Service Centre and Austro Service Centre adds to our long-standing authorisation as a Continental Service Centre for Diesel Engines (Centurion). These accolades reaffirm our position as a trusted and versatile maintenance organisation for Diamond aircraft and beyond.

As we close a remarkable year, Airways Aviation ESMA remains committed to setting higher benchmarks in the aviation maintenance sector. We thank our clients and partners for their trust and look forward to continued excellence in 2025 and beyond,” said José António Costa, Chief Technical Officer, Airways Aviation.

About Airways Aviation ESMA
Operating in Montpellier, in the south of France, Airways Aviation ESMA is one of the largest aviation training organisations in Europe, active since 1988. Over the years, we have trained thousands of pilots, cabin crew, maintenance technicians, ground handlers, and other aviation professionals. As part of the Airways Aviation Group — the largest privately owned aviation training organisation outside the US, with a direct presence in 14 countries across 4 continents and over 45 years of experience — we offer a comprehensive range of aviation training programmes. These range from pilot and cabin crew training to maintenance technician and ground handling courses, as well as military and higher education programmes in cooperation with respected universities.

Source: Airways Aviation ESMA
Photo Credit: Airways Aviation ESMA

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Flight Simulator Manufacturer FTD.aero Completes the Factory Acceptance Test of an A320 FNPT II MCC Device for Urbe Aero ATO

Poland – Flight simulator manufacturer FTD.aero has completed a new simulator based on the A320 aircraft, for the Italian pilot training organization Urbe Aero ATO. The device was officially accepted at the manufacturer’s facility in Poland in December 2024.

Urbe Aero ATO is a leading training organization from Italy, specializing in training future airline pilots to the highest standards. Its wide range of courses spans from PPL to ATPL licenses, including Airline Pilot Standard (APS) MCC and A-UPRT training, preparing pilots for careers in commercial aviation.

The team overseeing the Factory Acceptance Test of the simulator consisted of five members, including experienced airline pilots flying Airbus A320s and simulator technicians. They highlighted the exceptional attention to detail, functionality, and top-notch quality of the simulator, greatly exceeding FNPT II MCC standards.

This is the second FTD.aero-built flight simulation training device built to join the Urbe Aero’s fleet, confirming the trust placed in FTD.aero’s devices. The long-term cooperation between the two companies demonstrates a high level of satisfaction with previous solutions and a shared commitment to raising aviation training standards. As a result, Urbe Aero gains another tool that will enable effective training of future pilots in highly realistic training environment, fully meeting the demands and trends in the modern airline training market.

The new simulator is set to be installed in Rome in January 2025, with certification by the Italian Civil Aviation Authority (ENAC) planned for February.  Following the successful certification of the previous simulator, based on the B73M aircraft, this process is expected to proceed smoothly, allowing the first cadets to begin A320 training in the first quarter of 2025.

Source: FTD.aero
Photo Credit: FTD.aero

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UK-Headquartered Pilot Training Group Leading Edge Aviation Hosts Airline’s Pilot Recruitment Team in December 2024

Oxford, United Kingdom – Leading Edge Aviation, which operates flight training bases in the United Kingdom and Spain, welcomed the TUI Airways Pilot Recruitment team this week, providing its students with a valuable opportunity to learn more about career prospects with the world-renowned travel company.

  • TUI Airways, part of TUI Group, operates in 180 regions worldwide with a workforce of 60,000 employees.
  • Leading Edge Aviation students gained insights into TUI’s operations and recruitment processes

Leading Edge Aviation has reached a significant milestone in 2024 with over 100 students have received conditional job offers from major UK airlines during their training. This achievement means that more than a quarter of their current students have been ‘tagged’ for future First Officer roles.

Source: Leading Edge Aviation
Photo Credit: Leading Edge Aviation

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