The Alteon Multi-Crew Pilot Licensing (MPL) Program
Backgrounder
Alteon Training L.L.C, a wholly owned subsidiary and training arm of The Boeing Company, has been working closely with major industry partners since October 2005 to develop a new pilot training program to provide jet-ready, airline qualified pilots to the airlines. Boeing’s Current Market Outlook data indicates that the world’s fleet of aircraft will double in the next two decades, which will put increasing pressure on airlines to find qualified, well-trained pilots to operate these new planes.
In response to the industry’s needs, Alteon will be conducting a beta test of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Multi-Crew Pilot License (MPL). Alteon will begin its beta test of a MPL Training Program in Brisbane, Australia, producing the first MPL qualified crew members in mid 2008.
ICAO developed this new license in response to industry concerns that the traditional licensing path was not specifically designed with the airline in mind and did not take advantage of simulation technology to effectively and efficiently train pilots for their role at the airline. The MPL takes a competency based approach to training, shifting the focus from accumulating flight hours to demonstrating competency to perform as an airline crew member.
The Alteon MPL beta test focuses on developing the skills, knowledge, and competencies a crew member will need to perform their role at the airline. The Alteon program will train cadets in a multi-crew environment from the start, integrating theory and practice in both aircraft and simulators to prepare an individual for the First Officer position to about 15 months.
Alteon is conducting the MPL beta program in conjunction with industry partners who have had a chance to review the training program as it was being developed and offer their inputs. Airlines, regulators and suppliers have all been involved in shaping this beta test MPL training program.
Rigorous phase checks will be conducted throughout the process to ensure competency goals are met and the training program will be adjusted accordingly as Alteon and its partners track the cadets’ progress in the beta test. When the cadets complete the beta test, they will go on to fly for their respective airlines where their performance will be monitored and compared with their traditionally trained peers. The learning from this beta test will be evaluated and applied to shape the Alteon MPL training program for each airline customer. Alteon will also employ the lessons learned in the beta test of the MPL training program as it continues to look into more effective and efficient training solutions for airlines.