The Global Need for Very Light Jet (VLJ) Training Best Practices

“The Global Need for Very Light Jet (VLJ) Training Best Practices,” EATS 2007, Berlin, October 2007

Very Light Jets (VLJ) are projected to revolutionize regional air travel around the world for both business and pleasure by providing an affordable alternative for thousands of owner/pilots, small companies, and potential customers of on-demand air services. Unfortunately, there are also concerns that the VLJ may experience a surge of early deliveries and rapid growth followed by a series of tragic and preventable accidents due to inadequate training practices.

In December 2006, an informal international group of VLJ stakeholders began discussing their key issues and concerns relating to VLJ pilot training with the ultimate goal of finding ways to address them. In June 2007, this informal discussion group was accepted into the SAE International G-10 Aerospace Behavioral Engineering Technology Committee to participate in the development of formal Aerospace Recommended Practices for Very Light Jets.

Very Light Jet pilot training is a global issue and this paper focuses on its European dimensions by examining the projected growth in this sector, the relationship between best practices and regulatory requirements, and the importance of European participation in the development of VLJ training best practices.

Topics include: The market and training opportunity; the regulatory environment; What is needed? What is a standard? Who are the VLJ stakeholders? Stakeholder issues and concerns; Is additional training guidance needed? Initial stakeholder consensus; SAE International Standards; and Current SAE Subcommittee focus.

(File: Barnes, VLJ Training Best Practices, EATS 2007)