Introduction
The Avion Express Cadet Program is a fantastic chance for those aspiring to become professional pilots. Starting with no prior aviation experience, participants can progress to become certified A320 First Officers. Conducted by Avion Express: the largest narrow-body ACMI operator in the world, and Baatraining, a leading flight training solution provider, the self-sponsored direct entry program is meant for launching ambitions future pilots into the commercial aviation market.
Avion Express Cadet Program Overview
General Information
The Avion Express Cadet Program prepares aspiring pilots to become competent A320 First Officers. Avion Express is known for its large fleet of 54 aircraft, the biggest narrow-body ACMI operator across the globe. This program is ideal for individuals who have a passion for aviation and wish to start their journey as airline pilots.
Program Components
The program is comprehensive, featuring several critical components that ensure thorough preparation for a career in aviation:
ATPL Integrated: This part of the program covers both theoretical and practical training, providing a solid foundation in aviation. The student ends this phase with a CPL-IR-ME pilot licence.
A320 Type Rating: It's a specific training on operating the Airbus A320 aircraft. Including ground school, and FFS (Full Flight Simulator) hours. Including many hours for training normal operations and abnormal operations.
Base Training: Practical experience including at least six take-offs and landings on an A320. The last step of the Type Rating, is one of the most crucial ones. Now the pilots are ready to operate Airbus A320 as First Officer and fly throughout the world !
Detailed Training Components
Training Locations
The school providing the Training for the Avion Express Cadet Program is Baatraining.com and this training is conducted at various of their locations:
Ground School: Training is available in Vilnius, Lithuania, Lleida-Alguaire, Spain, and online to accommodate different needs.
Flight School: Located in Lleida-Alguaire, Spain, offering excellent facilities and good weather all year round for practical flight training.
Type Rating: Conducted in Vilnius, Lithuania, and Barcelona, Spain, in state of the art training facilities including brand new simulators.
Training Breakdown
Ground School
The ground school phase lasts for 10 months and covers essential subjects such as aviation law, aircraft systems, meteorology, and navigation. This phase prepares students for 13 CAA exams, ensuring they have a comprehensive understanding of the theoretical aspects of aviation.
Flight training
Flight training is divided into several stages to build competence progressively:
- VFR/NVFR Flight Training: This phase spans 4 months and includes 94 hours of training on a Cessna 172 Skyhawk equipped with a G1000 avionics suite.
- IFR – FNPT Flight Training: Conducted over 1 month, involving 37 hours on an FNPT device to train for instrument flight rules.
- IFR – SEP Flight Training: This 2-months phase involves 59 hours on single-engine piston aircraft to further develop instrument flying skills.
- ME – MEP Flight Training: Includes 11 hours on multi-engine piston aircraft and 3 hours on an FNPT device, completed in 0.5 months.
- MCC – FTD Flight Training: This phase involves 16 hours over 30 days on an FSTD device, coupled with classroom theory.
Advanced Training
Advanced training is crucial for transitioning to commercial aviation:
- A320 Type Rating: Lasting 2 months, this phase includes both theoretical and practical training on a full flight simulator, also includes a few session with VR technology to better learn the procedure and make the time in the simulator more worth it.
- Base Training: Provides hands-on experience with at least six take-offs and landings on an A320, typically completed in one day.
Additional Features
Training Facilities
The program features state-of-the-art training facilities equipped with A320, B737 NG, B737 CL full flight simulators, FNPT II, APT, and VR kits. These facilities also include modern classrooms, briefing rooms, a lounge, and a dining room, providing a conducive learning environment.
Instructors
The instructors at Avion Express come from diverse multicultural backgrounds, including countries like France, Greece, and Germany. They hold at least a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree, with some having Ph.D.s in engineering or economics. Many are experienced airline pilots, ATC controllers, Line training captains, TRIs, or TREs, bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the training program.
Application Process
Contact and Initial Screening
The first step involves filling out a form to get a personal manager from BAA Training. This manager will guide candidates through the application process, ensuring all necessary steps are completed efficiently.
Document Screening
Candidates must provide scanned copies of their passport, educational documents, and CV for review.
Candidate Assessment
Assessments are conducted using the Aon Assessment Solutions test system. This evaluation includes tests for personal traits, English proficiency, and cognitive abilities. Candidates will also undergo a 1-hour individual interview followed by a session with Avion Express.
Entry Requirements
To be eligible for the program, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Age: Over 18 years old
- Education: Secondary or higher
- Legal: Right to live and work in the EU
- Health: Valid EASA 1st Class Medical Certificate
- Tests: Completion of special tests and interviews
- Knowledge: Strong understanding of Mathematics and Physics
Benefits of the Program
The Avion Express Cadet Program offers numerous benefits, including a conditional offer of employment from Avion Express before training begins. Graduates gain diverse flying experience with different airlines such as Norwegian Air, TUI, LOT Polish Airlines, and VietJet Air, flying to destinations across Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, and more.
Program Costs
The program costs cover the ATPL theory course, training materials, flight training, Type Rating, and Base training, providing comprehensive financial transparency and ensuring there are no hidden fees.
FAQs
What aircraft will I fly post-training?
Participants will fly aircraft from the A320 family after completing their training.
What does the training fee cover?
The training fee covers the ATPL theory, the flight training, Type Rating, and Base training.
What are the entry requirements for the program?
To enter the program, candidates must be over 18 years old, have a secondary or higher education, the right to live and work in the EU, a valid EASA 1st Class Medical Certificate, and a strong understanding of Mathematics and Physics.
Where does the flight training take place?
Flight training takes place in Lleida-Alguaire, Spain.
How long does the ground school last?
The ground school phase lasts for 10 months.
What type of assessment will I undergo during the application process?
The assessment includes tests for personal traits, English proficiency, and cognitive abilities, followed by interviews with BAA Training and Avion Express.
Conclusion
The Avion Express Cadet Program is a gateway to starting a career as an A320 First Officer. With comprehensive training, state-of-the-art facilities, and experienced instructors, this program provides all the necessary tools and knowledge to succeed in the aviation industry. By meeting the entry requirements and completing the demanding training, candidates can look forward to a rich career with diverse flying opportunities.
