Long-term demand for newly qualified aviation professionals remains strong. Boeing, for example, forecasts that 674,000 new pilots will be needed between 2024 and 2043 to fly the global commercial fleet.

To achieve ambitious growth goals, most airlines like low fare and regional airlines need a steady stream of flight crew, but they can face criticism for relying on fast-tracked training programmes.

In reality, a mix of traditional classroom instruction and digital platforms are used to provide flexibility in pilot training.

According to Kenneth Mark Sorensen, Head of Training at BAA Training, digital technology is revolutionising flight training by making theoretical instruction more interactive and engaging.

He says: “This innovative approach not only involves traditional instructional techniques but also incorporates advanced online e-learning platforms that allow students to engage with the material at their own pace.”

He notes that virtual reality training offers immersive experiences that simulate real-flight scenarios, thereby providing trainees with a comprehensive understanding of complex concepts and procedures.

“This combination of interactive and digital tools enhances the overall learning experience, making it more effective and accessible for aspiring pilots,” he says.

Theory and practice – The role that airlines play in the career paths of new pilots

In October 2024, BAA Training signed a contract with Spain’s Volotea airline to provide cadet pilot training, with the first cadet batch starting in February 2025.

The cadet programme will provide airline-specific, full-scope, competency-focused Multi-crew Pilot License (MPL) training.

This covers theory, flight training on single and multi-engine aircraft, and aircraft type-specific full flight simulator training.

The aim is to fully prepare cadets to operate within Volotea-specific procedures and, importantly, the cadet programme offers job security to pilots under training.

Elsewhere, Laura Macutkevic, Vice President People and Culture at ACMI operator Avion Express, recently acknowledged the importance of developing effective training programmes for pilots and fostering strong partnerships with training academies to smooth the transition for cadets into active flying roles.

Avion Express released 50 cadets as first officers in 2024 and Macutkevic emphasises the vital role that airlines play in the career paths of new pilots.

“The journey to becoming a professional pilot is rigorous, and airlines have a responsibility to invest time and resources to make this pathway more efficient and accessible,” she says, adding that partnerships with pilot training academies were as important as internal efforts.

“Our collaboration with BAA Training, for instance, allows us to streamline the training process and deliver results that benefit both pilots and airlines. We are proud to see so many new pilots turning into first officers and joining Avion Express this year [2024].”

Avion Express claims it was the first ACMI operator in 2024 to have a simulator exclusively dedicated to its needs, in partnership with BAA Training, and its pilot training momentum is expected to increase in 2025.

Hybrid approach – Balancing digital and traditional pilot training methods

Meanwhile, Skyborne Academy in the UK has adopted a hybrid approach to theoretical knowledge training for its UK CAA Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL), combining tutor-led instruction with self-directed Computer-Based Training (CBT).

Lee Woodward, the Chief Executive at Skyborne Academy, believes this approach allows trainees to benefit from structured learning while also providing the flexibility to study independently and augment their knowledge using iPads preloaded with the entire syllabus.

“This blend of traditional and digital methods addresses different learning styles and offers trainees the ability to revisit materials as needed,” he says.

Skyborne is yet to incorporate virtual reality (VR) or augmented reality (AR) into flight training, but Woodward sees great potential in their application.

“I am certain there is a place for VR and AR in the near future,” he says. “Skyborne is actively in discussion with several OEMs to evaluate the integration of these technologies.”

Global training organisation, CAE, has been leading the charge for integrating new technologies into training solutions.

A good example is the CAE immersive pilot training app using the Apple Vision Pro headset.

“The CAE app uses spatial computing to bring true-to-life precision to flight deck interactions and will allow pilots to remotely complete training activities that are currently only available in training centres,” says Michel Azar-Hmouda, CAE Division President for Commercial Aviation.

He explains that as part of CAE’s training ecosystem, the app will enable pilots to train any time from anywhere. All they’ll need is Apple Vision Pro uploaded with the CAE app.

“The CAE app will allow pilots to familiarise themselves with the flight deck, practise critical procedures, and develop muscle memory for key functions from anywhere, whether home or a hotel room,” Azar-Hmouda says.

In other simulator-related news, Pan Am Flight Academy has announced the acquisition of its newest Level D Boeing 737-NG full-flight simulator, which is now installed at the new Pan Am Flight Academy training centre in the Axis Park complex in Hialeah, Florida.

The simulator is equipped with 737-NG standard specifications, featuring CFM-56 engine platforms and integrated with visuals from Rockwell Collins/EP8000 and HUD (Heads-Up Display), allowing for autoland and rollout capabilities. 

The training offering on this simulator started in November 2024.