Market Intelligence: -Interview Series

Delivering Airline Cadet Pilot Training Program in the Philippines – Airworks Aviation Academy

In this week’s AFM Pilot Training Leadership Interview Series we speak with Vincent Charles Ong – Owner and President of Airworks Aviation Company – one of the largest flight training organisations in the Philippines.

The conversation covers:

  • Airworks Aviation Company Overview: Established 32 years ago in Cebu, Philippines, Airworks Aviation Company has grown to one of the largest flight training organisations of the country – catering to over 250 students including international student pilots from over 30 different countries using a fleet of 27 aircraft.
  • Strategic Partnerships: In 2024 Airworks Aviation Company was awarded the contract to deliver the Cebu Pacific Air cadetship abinitio pilot training program. This program expand’s the airline’s previous partnership with Airworks and signifies a potential shift in flight training locations in South East Asia – which was historically dominated by flight training organisations in Australia and New Zealand.
  • View of the Local Market Pilot demand and Challenges
  • Unique Advantages of Training in Cebu: Training takes place at Mactan-Cebu International Airport, offering real-world experience from day one, including exposure to international traffic and communication. Cebu’s low cost of living, English-speaking environment, and attractive lifestyle contribute to its appeal as an ideal hub for pilot training.
  • Future Goals: Airworks aims to secure cadet pilot partnerships with other international airlines, particularly in markets like India and Vietnam. The academy also plans to expand its Aircraft Maintenance Technician (AMT) program, addressing the high demand for aviation mechanics globally.

For more information:

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

To stay up to date and get notified about all of the latest episodes from AFM you can follow us through the below platforms:

Related Posts

Pilot Training Industry Supplier Feature – FTD.aero

In this week’s AFM Pilot Training Leadership Interview Series we speak with Filip Witczak – Product Manager at FTD.aero, a Non-Motion Flight Training Devices Manufacturer based in Poland with expertise in designing and manufacturing flight simulators since 2009.

The conversation covers:

  • Company Background and Growth: FTD.aero, founded in 2009 by Filip Witczak, Cpt. Marcin Ambroziak and Krzysztof (Chris) Kimnes, began as a passion-driven startup in Poland and has grown into a 30-person team specializing in non-motion flight simulators. The company develops Boeing and Airbus-based simulators, offering both type-specific and type-representative devices for global clients, including airlines, flight schools, and universities.
  • Key Products and Innovations: FTD.aero provides EASA and FAA-compliant simulators, including the B737 MAX/NG and A320 models. Devices are tailored to client needs, offering high-fidelity cockpits with many original components for immersive, cost-effective training compared to Level D full-flight simulators. FTD.aero uses ARINC and CANBUS for compatibility with aviation standards and increased reliability. Their in-house engineering allows for full flexibility in configuration and future upgrades of each device built by them.
  • Partnerships and Projects: FTD.aero recently partnered with South Korean airline T’way Air to deliver a B738 simulator convertible to a B73M model to adapt to the airline’s changing fleet. Other successful long-term partnerships include LOT Polish Airlines, Urbe Aero Flight Academy (Italy) and VDL Aviation (Poland), reflecting strong customer satisfaction and trust.
  • Expansion and Market Outlook: The company is targeting international markets, including the booming Indian market, to meet increasing pilot training demands driven by aircraft orders and airline growth. Filip sees opportunities in advanced technologies like AI, VR, and AR to enhance pilot training and address instructor shortages.
  • Challenges and Vision: Filip highlighted regulatory delays as a challenge for adopting advanced training technologies and emphasized the need for updated standards. FTD.aero remains focused on providing tailored, high-quality solutions, emphasizing customer partnerships, long-term support, and cost-effective training for a global market.

For more information:

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

To stay up to date and get notified about all of the latest episodes from AFM you can follow us through the below platforms:

Related Posts

Pilot Training Industry Supplier Feature – Simnest Aviation

In this week’s AFM Pilot Training Leadership Interview Series we speak with Balázs Herendi – CEO of Simnest Aviation – a simulator manufacturer based in Hungary, focused on designing and manufacturing professional FSTDs.

The conversation covers:

  • Company Evolution and Achievements: Simnest Aviation, founded in 2015 and headquartered in Hungary, specializes in designing and manufacturing professional flight simulation training devices (FSTDs). The company has installed multiple simulators globally, achieving milestones such as introducing the first APS MCC training in Romania.
  • Collaborations and Strategic Partnerships: Simnest collaborates with key customers like the Danish Center Air Pilot Academy, Portuguese International Flight Academy, Norwegian Redflight Aviation, fostering long-term partnerships. It recently expanded its global footprint by partnering with Avion as its exclusive sales and service partner for the APAC region, aiming for broader international growth.
  • Innovative Training Solutions: The company integrates its expertise with the Simnest Pilot Academy to enhance understanding of ATO operations. Simnest devices are designed to optimize pilot training by offering cost-effective, high-fidelity, type-representative fixed-base simulators suitable for APS MCC and MPL programs.
  • Industry Trends and Challenges: Balázs highlighted trends such as increased reliance on type-representative devices, the growing adoption of APS MCC courses, and the use of AI, VR, and simulated ATC environments. He emphasized the industry’s challenge of balancing pilot demand with maintaining training quality amid a global pilot shortage.
  • Commitment to Safety: Simnest Aviation prioritizes safety by providing realistic training environments for cadets transitioning to jet-based aircraft. It also supports customers with end-to-end services, from device manufacturing to certification and operational documentation, offering a seamless experience for flight training organizations.

For more information:

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

To stay up to date and get notified about all of the latest episodes from AFM you can follow us through the below platforms:

Related Posts

Pilot Training Industry Supplier Feature – Elite Simulation Solutions

In this week’s AFM Pilot Training Leadership Interview Series we speak with Christopher Reville – Chief Commercial Officer at ELITE Simulation Solutions AG, a global provider of IFR train­ing soft­ware, flight con­trols and flight train­ing devices.

The conversation covers:

  1. Evolution and Product Range: ELITE Simulation Solutions, founded in 1987, began as a simulation software company and evolved into a global solution provider of flight training devices. They offer a wide range of products, from basic desktop simulators to advanced flight simulators for both fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft, catering to civilian, military, and educational sectors.
  2. Customizable Solutions and Innovation: A key strength of ELITE is its ability to develop tailored solutions for clients, thanks to in-house control over both hardware and software. This agility enables the company to adapt quickly to specific customer needs, such as developing bespoke dual-pilot configurations or integrating unique avionics setups.
  3. Global Reach and Impact: With installations across the world, including in the US, Europe, Africa, and Asia, ELITE’s devices serve various organizations, from universities and flight schools to government aviation authorities. Recent projects include the delivery of an FNPT II simulator to Brno University of Technology in the Czech Republic, a Basic Aviation Training Device (BATD) for Cameroon’s Ministry of Interior Civil Aviation Authority, and an A320 FTD Level 4 simulator in Santiago, Chile.
  4. Commitment to Quality and Safety: ELITE emphasizes Swiss-engineered precision, ensuring high-quality flight models that meet and exceed regulatory standards. Their devices are designed to provide realistic training and enhance safety through accurate simulation of high-risk scenarios, thereby preparing pilots effectively.
  5. Industry Trends and Forward-Thinking Vision: The company is actively tracking trends like VR, mixed reality, and emerging aircraft types such as UAVs and EVTOLs. While cautious about adopting new technology, ELITE prioritizes meaningful advancements that improve training value, focusing on enhancing safety and cost efficiency for flight schools and aviation organizations.

For more information:

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

To stay up to date and get notified about all of the latest episodes from AFM you can follow us through the below platforms:

Related Posts

Pilot Training Industry Supplier Feature – MPS

In this week’s AFM Pilot Training Leadership Interview Series we speak with Erik Jennes – Chief Commercial Officer at MPS (Multi Pilot Simulations) – a leading manufacturer of flight simulation training devices (including Boeing 737 NG/MAX and Airbus A320 ceo/neo).

The conversation covers:

  • Core Offering: MPS specializes in high-fidelity fixed-base simulators for single-aisle aircraft like the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737. The company emphasizes “smarter simulators,” integrating advanced training options and using real aircraft components to ensure precision and safety.
  • Global Airline Partnerships: MPS has been expanding its airline customer base, with installations in countries like the U.S., U.K., Panama, and Canada. Notable partnerships include Frontier Airlines, Jet2, Copa Airlines, and Ryanair. This reflects a shift from ATO-focused sales to increasing collaboration with airlines.
  • Trends in Pilot Training: Erik highlighted that there is a growing emphasis on eco-friendly solutions, sustainability in production, and leveraging AI for enhanced simulation environments and objective performance reviews. Additionally, remote learning through VR and AR is becoming a significant trend.
  • Challenges in the Industry: Supply chain issues, high data package costs, and difficulty in finding skilled personnel—both for production and simulator operation—are major challenges. MPS mitigates these with innovative hiring practices, alternative supply options, and focusing on sustainable operations.
  • Future Outlook: Despite temporary slowdowns, long-term pilot demand is expected to rise significantly. MPS remains committed to high-quality FTDs, seeing them as a cost-efficient and effective training tool over full-flight simulators.

For more information:

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

To stay up to date and get notified about all of the latest episodes from AFM you can follow us through the below platforms:

Related Posts

Pilot Training Industry Supplier Feature – True Course Simulation

In this week’s AFM Pilot Training Leadership Interview Series we speak with Brett Watts  – CEO of True Course Simulations, a simulator manufacturer that specializes in virtual reality flight training.

True Course Simulation offers a simple 3-step learning process that includes a pre-flight briefing, interactive simulations, and visual demonstrations of maneuvers.

The conversation covers:

  • Company Evolution and Offerings: True Course Simulations (TCS) provides comprehensive VR-based flight training solutions that include hardware (immersive training devices), software (courseware), and data management tools. Originally focused on military contracts, the company has expanded to serve civilian flight schools globally, prioritizing innovation and efficiency in pilot training.
  • Global Expansion and Partnerships: TCS has established partnerships with flight training organizations worldwide, including recent device deployments to Nelson Aviation College (New Zealand), Embry-Riddle Asia (Singapore), and Sydney Flight College (Australia).
  • Key Trends in Pilot Training: Brett highlighted the increasing demand for efficiency due to rising costs and instructor shortages. Another trend is the growing adoption of automation and VR to supplement traditional training, reducing stress on students and instructors.
  • Impact on Training and Safety: TCS tools improve safety and efficiency by enabling students to master core skills in simulations before real-world training. This approach reduces cognitive overload and better prepares students for complex multitasking in the cockpit.
  • Mission: TCS stands out by offering an integrated system of VR labs, self-guided learning, and performance analytics. The company aims to empower students with confidence and proficiency while supporting partners in modernizing their training systems.

For more information:

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

To stay up to date and get notified about all of the latest episodes from AFM you can follow us through the below platforms:

Related Posts

Operating the Oldest and One of the Countries Largest Flight School’s – Greece’s Global Aviation SA

In this week’s AFM Pilot Training Leadership Interview Series AFM’s Customer Success & Business Development Manager Agata Marszalek speaks with Alexandros Tsaktanis – Managing Director of Global Aviation SA – a flight training organization founded in 1997 in Athens, Greece, which provides Pilot Training, Cabin Crew Training, Aircraft Sales and Maintenance Services.

The conversation covers:

  • Overview of Global Aviation: Founded in 1997 in Athens, Global Aviation is the country’s oldest pilot training organization, focusing primarily on fixed-wing commercial pilot training. It operates with 20 aircraft at Megara Airport, three simulators, and soon expanding to a private airfield, Icaros Airport, to meet growing demands.
  • Innovations and Partnerships: Global Aviation collaborates with Aegean Airlines for a Cadet Pilot Training Program, which restarted post-pandemic in 2023 and will continue till 2025. This partnership subsidizes costs, making pilot training more accessible. On another note, a new agreement with ATPL Questions enhances theoretical training by offering advanced learning resources and an LMS system to improve student outcomes.
  • Challenges and Solutions: According to Alex, flight schools face several significant challenges including congested airspace and airports (especially in Europe). Increased commercial flights activity has made it difficult to secure training slots at public airports. Another challenge is instructor availability. Global Aviation is addressing congested airports and instructor shortages through private airport investments and sponsored instructor training programs.
  • Safety and Training Standards: Global Aviation maintains an impeccable safety record and instills a rigorous safety-first mindset in students, preparing them for professional roles while prioritizing risk-free operations. The Greek flight school emphasizes preparing students for airline careers by aligning its training with the airline safety requirements.
  • Competitive Advantage: Global Aviation combines high-quality training with competitive pricing and efficient course durations. Graduates have strong employability, with 90% securing airline jobs within six months, showcasing the program’s effectiveness in preparing students for the aviation industry.

For more information:

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

To stay up to date and get notified about all of the latest episodes from AFM you can follow us through the below platforms:

Related Posts

Growing Middle East and Europe Flight Training Bases – Intercontinental Aviation Enterprise

In this week’s AFM Pilot Training Leadership Interview Series AFM’s Customer Success & Business Development Manager Agata Marszalek speaks with Wissam Mehyou, Founder and Executive Chairman of the Intercontinental Aviation Enterprise (IAE) which operates flight training organisations across Lebanon and Cyprus.

The conversation covers:

  1. IAE Background and Growth: Wissam Mehyou founded Intercontinental Aviation Enterprise (IAE) in 2018, building on his family’s business legacy. IAE expanded to pilot training in Lebanon and Cyprus to provide Middle Eastern students with high-quality training closer to home.
  2. Addressing Pilot Shortages: Wissam discussed the global demand for pilots and highlighted that training academies often fall short of their promises, contributing to a pilot shortage. IAE aims to close this gap by providing consistent, high-quality training that meets industry needs.
  3. Partnerships for Capacity Building: IAE Global Training Partner – Airways Aviation Group has one of the most advanced training facilities and one of the largest capacities, This partnership supports flexible training paths for Middle Eastern students in multiple locations across the globe, especially when regional instabilities impact operations.
  4. Emphasis on Safety and Quality: IAE prioritizes a “safety-first” culture, implementing self-audits, transparent reporting, and regular safety briefings. This approach fosters honesty and responsibility among students and instructors, ensuring high standards in training.
  5. Student-Centric Approach: IAE is committed to supporting students through challenges. Their focus on student success underlines the organization’s dedication to producing well-trained pilots while emphasizing a global, multicultural learning environment.

For more information:

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

To stay up to date and get notified about all of the latest episodes from AFM you can follow us through the below platforms:

Related Posts

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.

To stay up to date and get notified about all of the latest episodes from AFM you can follow us through the below platforms:

Related Posts

Growing to Become One of the Largest Flight Schools in Greece – Egnatia Aviation

In this week’s AFM Pilot Training Leadership Interview Series AFM’s Customer Success & Business Development Manager Agata Marszalek speaks with George Triantafyllidis – Chief Commercial Officer at Egnatia Aviation – one of the largest flight training organisations in Europe conducting high quality pilot training for airlines and individuals.

The conversation covers:

  • Company Growth and New Facilities: Egnatia Aviation, based in Kavala, Greece, has expanded significantly, including the development of a private general aviation airport, Lydia Airport, to enhance pilot training facilities. More than 240 full time students are undergoing commercial training in Egnatia’s own General Aviation airport “Lydia” in Kavala, Greece.
  • Enhanced Training and Fleet: With a Diamond fleet of 18 aircraft and advanced simulators, Egnatia’s facilities reflect their commitment to high training standards. A notable aspect of Egnatia’s training model is that all aircraft and simulators are fully owned by the company, underscoring their strong financial stability. Additionally, Egnatia has an in-house maintenance department staffed with experienced technicians, allowing them to ensure that all aircraft are kept in optimal condition.
  • High employment rate: Egnatia boasts a high employment rate for graduates, exceeding 95% within the first year, fueled by airline partnerships with companies like Aegean Airlines, Olympic Air, Wizz Air and Iraqi Airways.
  • Industry Demand and Challenges: George highlighted the global pilot demand, as well as the challenges of limited training capacity and flight instructor shortages, which Egnatia addresses through cadet scholarships and fleet expansion. As airlines ramp up hiring to fulfill pilot demand, instructors at flight schools are often recruited into commercial airline roles, making it challenging for training organizations to retain them. Egnatia Aviation addresses this by implementing cadet scholarships specifically aimed at training instructors, thus creating a pathway for student pilots to transition into instructional roles within the academy. Egnatia also collaborates with experienced airline captains and former Greek Air Force pilots, leveraging their expertise to maintain high training standards while ensuring a steady supply of instructors

For more information:

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

To stay up to date and get notified about all of the latest episodes from AFM you can follow us through the below platforms:

Related Posts