Saudi Arabian low-cost airline flyadeal has successfully completed the ground training phase of the Airbus Pilot Instructor Course (APIC), marking a significant step in strengthening its in-house pilot instructor capabilities and reinforcing its commitment to aviation safety and operational excellence.
The programme, delivered in partnership with Airbus, is part of the aircraft manufacturer’s official Competency-Based Training and Assessment (CBTA) framework, designed to develop instructor pilots using internationally recognized teaching and assessment standards.
Building World-Class Instructor Pilots
The Airbus Pilot Instructor Course focuses on improving the quality of flight instruction by equipping instructor pilots with modern coaching, teaching, and assessment techniques. Unlike traditional pass-or-fail evaluation methods, the CBTA framework enables instructors to identify the underlying causes of pilot performance gaps and provide more personalized, data-driven training. The approach emphasizes the development of essential knowledge, technical skills, and professional attitudes required for safe, efficient, and consistent flight operations.
Investment in Aviation Excellence
Commenting on the programme, Capt. Naif Almatrafi, Director of Flight Operations at flyadeal, said investing in people remains central to the airline’s long-term strategy. “At flyadeal, investing in our people is fundamental to maintaining the highest standards of safety and operational excellence. The Airbus Pilot Instructor Course represents an important step in strengthening the capabilities of our instructor pilots by equipping them with globally recognised teaching and assessment methodologies,” he said.
Almatrafi added that as the airline continues to expand its operations, developing strong in-house expertise is essential for delivering consistent, high-quality pilot training while supporting the long-term growth of the airline. “This programme reflects our commitment to continuous learning and developing the next generation of aviation professionals within the Kingdom,” he added.
Training Conducted Across Saudi Arabia
The APIC programme is being conducted in two phases at different locations across Saudi Arabia. The ground training was held at flyadeal’s headquarters in Jeddah from July 5 to July 9, while the simulator training phase will take place at the Prince Sultan Aviation Academy. According to the airline, utilizing both its own facilities and the broader Saudia Group training network allows for efficient use of national aviation training resources while strengthening the country’s long-term aviation capabilities.
Supporting Future Airline Growth
flyadeal said the instructor development programme forms part of its broader strategy to enhance pilot training standards and align its operations with global aviation best practices. By adopting internationally recognized Airbus training methodologies, the airline aims to build a highly skilled team of instructor pilots capable of supporting its expanding fleet and growing route network.
The initiative also reflects Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to develop a world-class aviation workforce in line with the Kingdom’s long-term aviation and tourism ambitions, ensuring that future pilots receive training that meets the highest international safety and operational standards.
