KOCHI:
As the world and economy at large continues to navigate through the impact of COVID-19, the emphasis on maintaining a steady path of learning and development for its all stars has been a priority for AirAsia India. In a landmark decision, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation has approved distance learning for regulatory recurrent training for pilots, cabin crew, dispatchers and engineers.
This new regulation permits Indian carriers to conduct all regulatory recurrent training covered in the respective DGCA circulars through distance learning remotely once in a period of two years provided the crew has undergone previous recurrent training through contact classes. AirAsia is the first airline in India to attain DGCA approval to conduct Regulatory Training for Pilots through “Distance Learning Training Program”.
The purpose of the recurrent training is to refresh and keep the pilots stimulated and improve their skills with effective training programs on Technical systems, Procedures, Special Operations, Aircraft Performance, Safety Management System, Crew Resource Management and Safety Procedures. Earlier, these flight crew trainings were conducted by contact classroom sessions. Distance learning will have the benefit of ensuring social distancing, meeting regulatory requirements and cost savings.
Commenting on the new training modules and medium, Capt. Arun Nair, Chief Pilot Training and Standards, AirAsia India said, “With this milestone approval, AirAsia India would be starting the Annual Recurrent Trainings for Pilots through Virtual Classrooms, starting this week. While there is a restriction on travel and movement, that hasn’t stopped us from continuing our learning & development process. It is our responsibility to provide safe travel to our guests, and this remarkable decision by DGCA to allow regulatory training to continue virtually will ensure that our flight crew are refreshed, well trained and ready to fly when operations begin.”