Emirates has unveiled a state-of-the-art flight crew training centre in Dubai, a facility designed to prepare pilots for the airline’s growing Airbus A350 fleet and future Boeing 777Xs.
Spanning more than 63,000 square feet, the purpose-built centre houses six full flight simulator bays and is strategically located near Emirates’ existing training facilities. The AED 500 million investment underscores the airline’s commitment to growth while strengthening Dubai’s position as a global aviation hub.
H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive Emirates Airline and Group, described the centre as a “gamechanger” that sets new standards in aviation training. He highlighted its role in shaping future programmes and enhancing pilot development, adding that early feedback from crews and instructors has been overwhelmingly positive.
The centre introduces several industry firsts, including an in-house developed Pilot Support Station that allows pilots to configure flight decks, build flight plans, and prepare in a fully immersive environment before entering the simulator. Training sessions are recorded for detailed performance review, further optimising learning outcomes.
Equipped with advanced 3D printing capabilities, the facility also produces specialised components for its training equipment, generating annual savings of up to AED 1 million.
Pilot training has already commenced on two A350 full flight simulators, with four more — including Boeing 777X simulators — expected in the coming years. Once fully operational, Emirates will offer 17 simulators across its campuses, expanding training capacity by 54% to deliver 130,000 hours annually for up to 1,000 pilots per simulator.
The new centre marks a significant step in Emirates’ long-term strategy, ensuring its pilots remain at the forefront of global aviation standards.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
