Embraer and Emirates have plenty to celebrate at the Dubai Airshow this week.
The airline’s rapid expansion means it has invested heavily into a new training arm, Emirates Flight Training Academy, an in-house flight school, bringing all its cadet training into one place.
Earlier this week it announced a $39 million investment in new Embraer and Cirrus light aircraft, underscoring its commitment to using the most modern facilities and techniques. Previously, cadet pilots underwent the majority of their training at a variety of locations overseas.
Additionally the new aircraft ensure cadets will have access to the youngest training fleet in the world.
The order includes 22 single-piston engine Cirrus SR22s plus five $4.8 million twinjet Embraer Phenom 100E types, (with options for five more), which are valued at more than $39 million dollars at list prices. They start arriving in 2017.
As one of the world’s most technologically advanced jets, the Phenom 100E includes three interchangeable glass displays; state-of-the-art avionics; smart automation systems; and a flight management system with flight planning capabilities.
Adel Al Redha, Emirates chief operations officer, said: “Industry forecasts show growth in the need of pilots, particularly over the next few years. The Middle East and the Gulf region will have the highest demand for pilots to support its expansion and introduction of new aircraft. The Emirates Flight Training Academy is our investment and response to this pressing need.”
The Emirates Flight Training Academy will cause other local providers to take notice as the airline has said it will initially focus on Emirates’ existing cadet pilot programme for UAE nationals. However, it is “aiming to expand intake to other candidates in the future”.
Meanwhile, the Phenom order is another major shot in the arm for Embraer regionally, adding to Etihad Flight College’s order for four of the same type earlier this year, with options for three additional aircraft in a deal valued at about $30 million if all options are exercised. Deliveries of the Etihad aircraft will start in Q1 2016.
