Charles Alcock is managing editor of the AIN Media Group, having rejoined the company in 2019. He has been an aviation journalist since 1986, and previously worked for AIN from 1990 to 2017, most recently as editor-in-chief. His main focus is on covering new aviation technology and business models, as well as international news.
Having been raised in the London area, Alcock studied at the University of Manchester in the UK and earned an honors degree in Politics and Modern History. He speaks English and French, and some German.

Managing Editor

Charles Alcock

CAE is preparing to start training pilots for Bombardier’s new Global 8000 business jet this year. The Bombardier authorized training provider announced the initiative on Monday, noting that the first pilots will begin preparations for the aircraft to enter service at its Montreal training center in early December.
As the in-service fleet of the long-range aircraft grows, CAE intends to add other training locations with full-flight simulators across its network. The Canadian group has a business aviation training facility in Abu Dhabi and operates two airline centers for Emirates in Dubai.
In addition to pilot instruction, CAE is introducing programs to prepare maintenance technicians to support the Global 8000. These include computer-based training, so that staff working on other Global models understand the technical differences with the 8000.
The company operates computer-based ground schools in partnership with ERT for all Global aircraft, covering engine run, taxi, and crew resource management for aircraft maintenance technicians. These courses are delivered at all of CAE’s centers worldwide, at customers’ bases, and in remote-learning hybrid training rooms.
“The Global 8000 is a significant advancement in business aviation, and CAE is proud to support Bombardier by delivering world-class pilot training for this aircraft,” said Alexandre Prévost, CAE’s civil aviation president. “Developed in close collaboration with Bombardier, our Global 8000 training program leverages next-generation simulator technology, advanced courseware, expert instruction, and CORe training powered by CAE Rise to reflect the performance and sophistication of Bombardier’s newest flagship aircraft.”
According to CAE, the Middle East region will need 155,000 new aviation professionals by 2032, including 2,000 air traffic controllers. The company collaborates with air navigation service providers to address this skills gap through its advanced air traffic services training program, which utilizes competence-based training and assessment. Its CAE Rise technology platform uses analytics, biometrics, and adaptive learning, and the company is also exploring the use of eye-tracking systems to prepare controllers.

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