Airbus Flight Academy partners with Sevenair to expand pilot training capacity in Europe

 

Airbus Flight Academy has entered into a new partnership with Sevenair Academy, one of Europe’s largest flight training organisations, to expand ab initio pilot training capacity as the industry faces a long-term pilot shortage. The agreement was signed during the European Airline Training Symposium (EATS) in Portugal.

According to the latest Airbus Global Services Forecast, the aviation sector will require 633,000 new pilots over the next two decades, including 119,000 in Europe alone. The collaboration aims to enhance Airbus’ global training reach and support the development of the next generation of commercial pilots.

Airbus currently operates a 21-centre global training network, offering full pilot training solutions close to airline home bases. The addition of Sevenair Academy strengthens Airbus’ presence in Europe and positions Portugal as a strategic training hub.

The partnership offers a full ab initio training pathway for individuals with no prior flying experience. Cadets will follow an integrated programme designed to equip them with the skills and competencies required for a smooth entry into airline operations.

“Leveraging Airbus’ decades of expertise in flight safety, instructor development, and curriculum standardisation, this partnership ensures the highest training quality,” said Maïa Kuilenberg, VP Training Services at Airbus. “Sevenair Academy will benefit from Airbus’ ongoing support and innovations, enhancing instructors’ skills and broadening training opportunities for both airline partners and self-sponsored aspiring pilots.”

Carlos Amaro, CEO of Sevenair Academy, said the partnership reinforces Sevenair’s position as a leading training provider. “By combining Airbus’ high standards with our four decades of experience in ab initio training and our state-of-the-art facilities and fleet in Ponte de Sor, Portugal, we are setting a new benchmark in aviation education and preparing cadets to excel in a dynamic global industry.”

Sevenair currently trains 200 cadets and plans to increase its capacity gradually through both modular and integrated programmes. The first group of Royal Brunei Airlines cadets is beginning Airbus training at the academy this week.

The partnership responds to growing industry needs for high-quality, standardised pilot training and aims to support airlines and aviation stakeholders in securing future talent pipelines.

Tags: Maïa Kuilenberg, Airbus. Carlos Amaro,  Sevenair Academy