Probably old news by now, but looks like Virgin is supporting Boeing's development of a transition course from 747s
to 787s (with VS 787-900 deliveries at least 2 years from now). Does this suggest that VS 787 pilots will primarily be sourced from the 400 fleet as those airplanes depart? Will VS likely maintain the split Boeing/Airbus fleets with not much mixing of pilots from each?
Here's the news/
PR clip:
Virgin Atlantic has revealed the airline is assisting aircraft manufacturer Boeing with the development of a streamlined course for pilots wishing to convert from 747 to 787 flying.
The new course will provide a more efficient training programme, reducing the conversion time from 24 to 16 days. Virgin Atlantic Captains
Jim Kloos and
Ian Belmore are blazing a trail for the industry, once their trial is complete the course will be available to all European pilots currently flying Boeing 747-400s.
“We were pleased to be able to provide two experienced B747 pilots to Boeing as candidates for this course, which will result in great efficiency savings for airlines across Europe,” explained Virgin Atlantic’s Director of Operations, Safety and Security, Corneel Koster.
“We have a fantastic team of pilots at Virgin Atlantic and these two training captains will be providing invaluable experience and practical advice to Boeing. We are excited about the 787 aircraft joining our fleet and are pleased to be playing such a key part in enabling its smooth roll out across Europe.”