In preparation for the introduction of its highly anticipated Airbus A-350 aircraft, Emirates has invested approximately $48 million in a comprehensive suite of state-of-the-art equipment and systems to support pilot and cabin crew training. The investments include three full-flight simulators, integrated with innovative Pilot Support Systems (PSS), a fixed-base training device, a cabin emergency evacuation trainer and a door evacuation trainer. The Pilot Support Systems (PSS) are an industry first, the airline said, and have been completely developed in-house by Emirates to enhance the training experience. During the briefing phase, it allows trainees to perform an interactive flight deck setup, including creating a flight plan, in a fully immersive environment. The setup is recalled once trainees move around the simulator to resume training. The PSS debriefing mode allows the instructor to replay the recorded session to review the crew's performance.

"The airline's first A-350 Full Flight Simulator has received a Level D qualification, the highest for this type of simulator, from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), a statement said. Emirates has ordered three full flight simulators for its A-350 fleet. The second of these is currently undergoing on-site acceptance and is expected to receive EASA approval in November. The A-350's fixed-base training device replicates the cockpit, using visual and audio systems to make training sessions as realistic as possible.

For the next phase of growth, the UAE carrier has on its order book 65 A-350 aircraft and a mix of 205 B-777X airplanes that will support its expansion goals and provide the flexibility to launch new routes and better serve existing ones on its network.