Oxford Aviation Academy (OAA) and British Airways have signed a five-year training agreement for the provision of pilot training and simulator time for the airline’s new fleet of Embraer 170s and 190SRs.
The first E-170 is on schedule to be delivered to British Airways’ wholly owned subsidiary BA CityFlyer in September, ready to go into operation later this year.
Firm orders have been placed for six E-170s and five E-190SRs, with options for three more. They will replace the current fleet of nine Avro RJ100 and two RJ85 aircraft operated by BA CityFlyer.
Entitlement Training for the initial group of BA CityFlyer pilots has begun at OAA’s Gatwick Training Centre on behalf of Embraer. OAA is an Authorised Embraer 170/190 Entitlement Training provider and holds JAR TRTO approval for the type. The training organisation has invested in a full training suite – a dual fit E-170/190 Level D full flight simulator, and a state-of-the-art ground school facility which includes CBT stations, FMS trainers and an Integrated Procedures Trainer.
The Gatwick Embraer 170/190 simulator has been specially modified to meet the airline’s requirements to undertake steep approaches into London City Airport.
Commenting on the agreement, OAA's group CEO Brian Simpson commented, “We are delighted that we have signed this agreement, having worked with both BA CityFlyer and Embraer over the last year to support the introduction of the new E-Jet fleet. This has been an exciting project, and OAA looks forward to providing the best possible support in the years ahead. It further confirms OAA’s commitment, as a total solution provider, to invest in flexible, innovative products using the latest technology to fully support our customer’s requirements.”
Peter Simpson, managing Director BA CityFlyer noted, “Excellent training standards are an integral part of our operation and it is very important to find the right partner. We are delighted with what OAA has to offer for the training of pilots for our new aircraft fleet.”
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