Memorandum Of Understanding Signed For Cooperation In Training For New Pilots

The Civil Aviation University of China (CAUC) will work with Eurocopter for ab-initio pilot training activities under a Memorandum of Understanding announced Tuesday. This agreement – which was unveiled at Airshow China 2010 in Zhuhai – will result in an intensification of training for future helicopter pilots, and will lead to the establishment of a working group to determine a timeline for different areas of cooperation.

Ab-initio training involves the preparation of pilots from the start, utilizing students who have no previous helicopter flight experience. It enables a new generation of pilots to enter training that readies them for a professional helicopter aviation career.

“This agreement will allow China to establish a resource of qualified helicopter pilots and consolidate the local infrastructure for rotary-wing operations,” said Wu Tongshui, President of CAUC. “We are very honored to be part of this initiative, which constitutes a win-win solution for both our university and Eurocopter.”

CAUC is a Tianjin-based national university, and is one of the largest aviation training schools under the authority of the Civil Aviation Authority of China (CAAC). It was established in 1951 to provide civil aviation education and training for new pilots in China.

“For Eurocopter, teaming up with a renowned university and established pilot school in China will enable us to discover high calibre students and future helicopter pilots,” added Philippe Crespo, Eurocopter’s Vice President of Training Services. “Identifying this talent from the start will help us better accompany local helicopter operators and contribute to the development of the Chinese aviation industry, while ensuring the highest levels of safety.

FMI: www.eurocopter.com