Etihad develops new flight training school
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Etihad Airways has unveiled plans to create a new pilot training school in the UAE.
The Etihad Flight College is in the process of acquiring the training division of Horizon International Flight Academy, a subsidiary of the Mubadala Development Company. Based in Al Ain, Horizon provides training for pilots to qualify for their Private Pilot’s Licence (PPL), Commercial Pilot’s Licence (CPL) or Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL).
The new Etihad Flight College will also implement the Multi-Crew Pilot Licence (MPL), a training programme focused on developing cadet pilot candidates into first officers on completion of their training.
“The establishment of the Etihad Flight College is a natural part of our strategy to produce the best pilots to support our rapidly expanding fleet. It also helps underpin the growth and development of the aviation sector in Abu Dhabi,” said James Hogan, Etihad’s president & chief executive officer.
“We are committed to developing a world-class facility which combines new and best practice training programmes with high calibre instructors. The training facility will enhance the career opportunities in aviation, especially for UAE nationals.”
Subject to regulatory approval, Horizon’s fixed-wing division will be acquired by Etihad Flight College. Etihad will also acquire 13 Cessna 172SP Skyhawk aircraft, three Diamond DA42NG aircraft, two flight training simulators and Horizon’s hangar facilities at Al Ain International Airport.
Horizon currently has 210 trainees enrolled in its aviation training programmes and has been the training provider for Etihad Airways’ cadet pilots for the past seven years.
Etihad currently employs more than 1,600 pilots.
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