Twin Engine Training Recommendation

Context

Present (ICAO Annex 1) recommendations do not require any specific training or previous experience on multi-engine aircraft before the issue of a type rating for a multi-pilot turbo-jet transport category aeroplane. Consequently, the applicant may only hold a CPL on single engine before undergoing a type rating course on large aircraft.

Problem statement

Lack of exposure to multi-engine training and experience could lead to an impact on safe flight operations, with the following consequences: lack of basic knowledge on twin-engine operations and reduced handling skills.

Objectives

Implement multi-engine training and competencies as mandatory prerequisites prior to commercial aircraft type rating training, in order to develop and train commercial airline pilots according to the following skills, as recommended by ICAO:

• Recognition and management of threats and errors
• Operation of multi-engine aircraft within its limitations (FPM/FPA)
• Completion of all manoeuvres with smoothness and accuracy on multi-engine (FPM/FPA)
• Exercise of good judgement and airmanship on multi-engine operations (PSD)
• Application of aeronautical knowledge on multi-engine operations
• Ability to maintain control of the multi-engine aircraft at all times in a manner such that the successful outcome of a procedure or manoeuvre is assured (WLM)

ICAO competencies targeted

The recommendation targets six of the ICAO pilot competencies referenced in ICAO Doc 9868:

The ICAO competencies listed in the recommendation are: Communication (COM); Aircraft Flight Path Management - Manual Control (FPM); Aircraft Flight Path Management - Automation (FPA); Leadership and Teamwork (LTW); Problem Solving and Decision Making (PSD); Application of Procedures (PRO); Workload Management (WLM); Situational Awareness (SAW); Knowledge (KNO).

OEM recommendations

Set a minimum type rating prerequisite to guarantee minimum competencies and therefore allow the correct delivery of the type rating content: multi-engine skills before undergoing the rating for the multi-pilot turbo-jet transport category aeroplane.

Advocacy

• ICAO level: to recommend the acquisition of multi-engine skills before undergoing the type rating course for the multi-pilot turbo-jet transport category aeroplane.
• National authority level: to ensure that the applicant has demonstrated multi-engine skills before undergoing the type rating course for the multi-pilot turbo-jet transport category aeroplane.

OEM transition phase

The manufacturer of aircraft certificated for operation with a minimum crew of at least two pilots should recommend additional training to ensure an acceptable level of multi-engine skills for safe operations. The additional training should cover at least the following areas:

• Recognition and management of threats and errors
• Operation of multi-engine aircraft within its limitations
• Completion of all manoeuvres with smoothness and accuracy on multi-engine
• Exercise of good judgement and airmanship on multi-engine operations
• Application of aeronautical knowledge on multi-engine operations
• Ability to maintain control of the multi-engine aircraft at all times in a manner such that the successful outcome of a procedure or manoeuvre is assured

Implementation example

• Implementation of the recommendation as prerequisites for advanced training by Aircraft Manufacturers Flight Training Association members
• Implementation of upgrade modules for candidates who do not meet the requisites
• Implementation letter to authorities and ICAO to advocate the necessity of such measures

AMFTA members support the recommendation

All AMFTA members have decided to implement this prerequisite as mandatory in the manufacturer training prerequisites.

Irrespective of the AMFTA members' decision, AMFTA recommends that this prerequisite becomes a mandatory and integral part of the national regulations for all FTOs and ATOs within each authority's jurisdiction.

For trainees who do not have multi-engine competency, a Multi-Engine module will be incorporated at the beginning of the type rating.

AMFTA members are Airbus, Boeing, COMAC and Embraer, each represented by its Head of Training or a designated representative.

Disclaimer

The AMFTA is an independent, non-profit organisation and publishes these recommendations addressed to the civil aviation authorities worldwide, for the general information of the public only (the "Recommendations"). The Recommendations are non-binding. Their content shall not be reproduced without the prior written consent of the AMFTA. The AMFTA and/or any of its members, directors, officers, employees, shall not accept any responsibility or liability whatsoever with regard to the use of the Recommendations published.