Emirates’ academy: A model for the future of pilot training

For the first time last week, artist’s renderings of the Emirates Flight Training Academy were revealed. Emirates’ dedicated flight training center, will showcase industry’s most advanced approach to pilot training; meeting the Cadet’s professional and personal requirements in a fully-integrated facility. The academy, to be located at Dubai World Central Airport, will act as the dedicated training center for Emirates’ National Cadet Pilot Program.
The half a billion dirham investment by Emirates in the Flight Training Academy will cover the construction of the facilities, maintenance equipment, training aircraft and simulators to ensure the Academy is state-of-the-art. With the capacity to train up to 400 students at a time, the facility will bring together the four key components of pilot training — ground school classrooms, ab initio flight training, ground based simulators, and modern accommodation with recreational facilities.
“The aviation industry is growing at an exponential rate and the need for professional pilots is crucial. Emirates is committed to meeting that demand through training our own UAE National Cadets at the state-of-the-art Emirates Flight Academy,” said Adel Al-Redha, Emirates EVP of engineering and operations.
Emirates has been working closely with industry leaders and designers to ensure the facility is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and trainers. For example, Emirates has engaged the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) on approval for course syllabus authorities and the airside operations will be managed by Dubai Airports, such as the control tower and runway which will support the Academy. The academy will also feature all the amenities and recreational facilities needed to accommodate the cadets during their five-day a week instruction. Cadets will be able to supplement their studies with an on-site gymnasium, football pitch, tennis courts and a mosque. “Emirates is known for leading the development of Dubai into a prominent global aviation hub,” said Ashok Korgaonkar, MD, Archgroup Consultants.