Abu Dhabi flag carrier Etihad Airways has purchased seven full flight simulators (FFS) from Canadian manufacturer CAE for more than US$200mn
The FFS will be based at the airline's training academy in Abu Dhabi and be used to support the airline?s growing training requirements.
A multi-million dollar extension project is also currently being undertaken at the training academy and is due for completion in early November 2013.
Etihad Airways president and chief executive James Hogan said, ?The pilot training requirements for Etihad Airways as well as members of our equity alliance, continue to grow and the new full flight simulators will ensure we are ideally placed for the next phase in our expansion.
?We place great emphasis on the efficiency of our operations and the safety of our passengers and this deal means we will be using the most advanced training technologies for the broadest range of aircraft types. The construction work at the training academy will double its size and eventually house 11 full flight simulators.?
The deal with CAE will also include update services for the FFS and an exclusive 10-year agreement for training equipment and services. The flight training devices will include CAE Simfinity Airbus Pilot Transition trainers and CAE Simfinity Integrated Procedures Trainers.
Canada Ambassador to the UAE, Arif Lalani, said, ?This long term agreement between Etihad Airways and CAE demonstrates the economic opportunities that result from the strong and innovative commercial relationships between two countries.?
CAE Group president, civil simulation products, training and services Nick Leontidis said, ?We are delighted to continue growing our relationship with Etihad Airways, one of the world?s fastest growing airlines and support the airline with its growing pilot training needs.
?The sophistication of the full flight simulators and software technology is breathtaking and will serve the airline and its partners, very well in the coming decade.?
