Dubai Unveils Emirates Next-Gen Pilot Training Center
Dubai has welcomed the launch of Emirates’ state-of-the-art flight crew training center, marking a milestone in the airline’s expansion strategy. The facility will prepare current and future pilots for operations on the Airbus A350 fleet and upcoming Boeing 777Xs. Covering more than 63,000 square feet, the center includes six full-flight simulator bays and is strategically located near other training hubs in the city.
The new center introduces advanced training technology such as the Pilot Support Station, developed in-house to allow pilots to configure flight decks, create flight plans, and practice in immersive simulations. Training sessions are recorded for later review, which improves learning outcomes and efficiency. Additionally, the facility incorporates 3D printing capabilities, enabling the production of complex components for training equipment and saving up to AED 1 million annually.
Boosting Pilot Capacity and Global Standards
Pilot training has already begun with two Airbus A350 simulators, while four more, including Boeing 777X models, are scheduled for installation in the coming years. Each simulator can deliver 7,500 training hours annually and serve up to 1,000 pilots. Once fully operational, Emirates will have 17 simulators across its facilities, expanding capacity by 54 percent to a total of 130,000 training hours per year.
One of the Airbus A350 simulators has achieved a Level D qualification, the highest possible rating from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency. It is also the first simulator globally at Airbus A350 Standard 1.3 to be qualified with zero findings. These achievements highlight Dubai’s role in setting new benchmarks for aviation training and safety.
Expanding Training Programs and Recruitment
The training center also houses four classrooms dedicated to recurrent, conversion, and command training. Alongside this, Emirates continues to operate a wide range of programs through its other facilities, including the Flight Training Academy, Aviation University, Cabin Crew Training Center, and Aviation College.
With expansion in mind, Emirates is actively recruiting pilots through three programs: Direct Entry Captains, Accelerated Command, and First Officers non-type rated. This recruitment drive supports the airline’s position as the world’s largest international carrier and operator of the largest A380 and Boeing 777 fleets.
