Anticipating a need for qualified pilots to fly some of its latest-generation widebodies, Etihad Airways is currently training a batch of cadet pilots for its Boeing 787 fleet. And recently, it celebrated a milestone when the first two cadet pilots completed their base training on an actual 787. Let’s find out more.
Base training
Etihad Airways has announced the completion of an important step in its Boeing 787 Multi-Crew Pilot License (MPL) program. As part of their training, the first of its cadet pilots successfully completed ‘Base Training’ on an actual Boeing 787 Dreamliner.
‘Base Training’ flights are used to train cadet pilots on take-off and landings under the supervision of a qualified instructor. After this step, the cadets will further progress their training on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner. Mohammad Al Bulooki, Chief Operating Officer at Etihad Airways commented,
“Etihad’s UAE national cadet pilots are the first to complete this significant milestone on one of the world’s first Boeing 787 Dreamliner MPL programmes.
“This achievement is a testament to Etihad’s commitment to continuously invest and develop our UAE national talent by adopting state-of-the-art training methodologies. Through this programme, Etihad’s cadet pilots will receive the most advanced training in commercial aviation as we prepare for our continued growth in 2023 and beyond.”
Photo: Dirk Daniel Mann/Shutterstock
About the program
Launched in October 2020, Etihad’s Boeing 787 Dreamliner MPL program was developed in collaboration with IATA and the GCAA and has been designed to meet the growing demand for highly skilled pilots in the industry.
It aims to achieve the highest proficiency standards and trains cadets to become fully qualified Boeing 787 Dreamliner pilots through an accelerated and highly advanced curriculum that capitalizes on leading industry learning techniques and technology.
Photo: R.R. Aditya / Shutterstock
According to Etihad, the program provides pilots with structured training tailored to meet the requirements of the airline, its aircraft, and operational environment. It includes theoretical knowledge and simulator training, as well as on-the-job flight training with some of the most experienced instructors on this aircraft type.
Training the next generation of pilots
Etihad’s investment in training pilots for its widebody fleet reflects the global need for qualified pilots as business picks up following the COVID-slump. The airline has even welcomed back its first Airbus A380 from storage, as passenger demand for travel is returning swiftly.
Other carriers around the world, such as Delta Air Lines, are also investing in training the next generation of pilots. Nearly 100 participants have completed Delta’s Propel Pilot Career Path Program since its inception in 2018.
Photo: Ian Dewar Photography / Shutterstock
Air India, which is currently looking for qualified pilots to operate its widebody fleet, could consider investing in local training facilities to prepare pilots for future operations as it embarks on a transformation journey.
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Etihad had been a significant investor in Alitalia in the years leading up to the first round of loans from the Italian government. Photo: Vincenzo Pace | Simple Flying Etihad Airways
- IATA/ICAO Code:
- EY/ETD
- Airline Type:
- Full Service Carrier
- Hub(s):
- Abu Dhabi International Airport
- Year Founded:
- 2003
- CEO:
- Tony Douglas
- Country:
- United Arab Emirates
