Airbus Receives Common Type Rating Approval for A350 and A330 Pilot Training

[HD videos below] Airbus has received Common Type Rating for A350 XWB and A330 pilot training.

The new regulatory approval means that pilots who are qualified and current on the A330 can already commence their preparations to take the A350 XWB’s controls by undergoing “differences training” only.

Enabling a significant reduction of costs for airlines, the differences training does not necessitate the use of a ground-based full-flight-simulator, and allows a 65% reduction in pilot training time – to only eight days – versus a standard transition course.

Additionally, it facilitates the creation of a pool of pilots who can fly both the A330 and A350 XWB in a single-fleet flying (SFF) concept for increased scheduling flexibility and mobility.

“This achievement is a fine example of our ability to combine innovation with commonality, and will be particularly valuable to airlines wishing to operate the A330 and A350 XWB in parallel,” said Régine Vadrot, who leads the Training & Operational Certification team at Airbus. “The A350 XWB is a true member of the Airbus integrated family of aircraft.”

A notable factor in achieving the A350 XWB/A330 Common Type Rating is the similarity in handling qualities between the two fly-by-wire jetliners, as recently verified by pilots representing the European and U.S. civil aviation authorities who flew both aircraft.

A350 XWB deliveries are expected to begin before the end of 2014.

Exclusive Airbus A350 XWB Interview at Singapore Airshow 2014

Airbus A350-900 XWB Flying Display Practice at Singapore Airshow 2014 - HD

Very First Airbus A350 XWB Flying Display at an airshow Anywhere in the world took place 11 February at the Singapore Airshow 2014

Exclusive HD video interview about the Rolls-Royce Trent XWB Engine which powers the elegant, and supremely quiet, Airbus A350-900 XWB. The interview, which took place at the Singapore Airshow 2014 on 11 February, is with Richard Hedges, Director Communications Civil Aerospace for Rolls-Royce.

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