Airbus Flight Academy Europe receives the first batch of its new, more fuel-efficient and quieter Elixir training aircraft as part of Airbus’s commitment to sustainable development in aviation.
Airbus Flight Academy Europe, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Airbus specializing in civil and military pilot training, has welcomed the first batch of its new, more fuel-efficient and quieter Elixir training aircraft. This delivery is part of Airbus’s commitment to sustainable development in aviation. The initial four aircraft, out of a total order of eight, feature a cockpit specifically designed for the Airbus Flight Academy. This design includes two Electronic Flight Instrument Systems (EFIS), preparing cadet pilots for the advanced technologies found in today’s modern commercial aircraft.
Established in 2006, Airbus Flight Academy Europe provides training facilities and services for the initial, basic, and advanced training of both civil and military pilots. The academy has developed its own pilot training capabilities and has been offering the Airbus Pilot Cadet Training Programme since 2019. Located in Angoulême, southwest France, the training center boasts comprehensive facilities to provide optimal training conditions for cadets.
“We are delighted to announce that, following the delivery of our very first Elixir aircraft, our cadets will now be flying this quieter, more fuel-efficient aircraft during the first flight phases of their training. This is a first step towards the gradual modernisation of the training fleet to reduce the environmental impact of our academy”, says Jean Longobardi, CEO & President, Airbus Flight Academy Europe.
The Airbus Pilot Cadet Training Programme is open to high school graduates over 18 years old globally. Candidates undergo a rigorous screening process, including online and on-site assessments, before being eligible for the training program. The training includes over 800 hours of ground school and 200 hours of practical (flight and simulator) training. Approximately 80 cadets are trained at the Airbus Flight Academy Europe each year.
In addition to the new Elixir aircraft, Airbus Flight Academy Europe maintains a fleet that includes Diamond DA42, Cirrus SR20, and Grob 120 A-F aircraft, all dedicated to cadet training. The academy also operates two FNPT II qualified simulators, providing a comprehensive training solution for student pilots.
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The introduction of more fuel-efficient and quieter aircraft into pilot training programs is a positive step toward reducing the environmental impact of aviation. This move aligns with broader industry efforts to embrace sustainability and incorporate greener technologies into all aspects of flight operations. Airbus Flight Academy Europe’s commitment to this approach sets a precedent for more sustainable pilot training practices in the aviation sector.
