Etihad Airways said it will expand its pilot training facilities in Abu Dhabi following the arrival of its first A320 full-flight simulator (FFS) from Canadian manufacturer, CAE.

The new A320 FFS is equipped with state-of-the-art electric motion and control loading systems, and uses satellite imagery, as well as sophisticated weather and lighting effects, to provide realistic training scenarios for pilots.

Furthermore, the advanced databases installed on the FFS provide the pilots with the exact specifications and conditions for landing and take-off at major airports throughout the Etihad network.

To mark the delivery of the A320 FFS, senior representatives from Etihad, CAE, as well as the Canadian Ambassador, gathered at Etihad’s new training academy at the airline’s home-base in Abu Dhabi.

Richard Hill, Etihad Airways’ executive vice president operations, said: 'The A320 is an important aircraft in Etihad’s fleet strategy and it is vital that we have the best equipment and technology in place to train our pilots to the very highest standards.'

Etihad now has three CAE full-flight simulators at its training academy and the airline announced in July at the Farnborough International Airshow the purchase of its first CAE 7000 Series Boeing 777-300ER (extended range) FFS.

Within the Farnborough deal, Etihad has also purchased a CAE maintenance flight training device which provides practical experience in the operation, servicing, adjustment, and repair of the Boeing 777 simulator.

Etihad currently has five Boeing 777-300ER aircraft in its fleet. The airline ordered an additional 10 B777’s at Farnborough, with options and purchase rights for a further 20.

Martin Gagne, CAE’s executive vice president, said the new A320 full-flight simulator in addition to Etihad’s existing A330 and A340 simulators, and the purchase of its first Boeing 777-300ER FFS will ensure the airline offers its pilots the very best in flight training.'

“We have developed a close business relationship with Etihad during the past five years and look forward to supporting Etihad’s growth initiatives in the future,” he added.

Etihad currently has 720 pilots in its ranks. Its fleet of narrow and wide body aircraft is set to reach 42 by the end of 2008 which will operate to 50 destinations worldwide. The airline is also set carry more than six million passengers in 2008, an increase of 30 per cent from 2007.-TradeArabia News service