Does an Online Course Count in the Aviation Cabin Crew Training?

Some airlines incorporate online learning videos and tests into their training and requalification processes. This is becoming more prevalent, particularly for recurrent training, as part of a broader approach that includes both practical and online elements.

Qualification and Recurrent Training

If you are already qualified cabin crew holding a valid licence, the question of whether online courses can be a part of recurrent training may arise. However, itrsquo;s important to note that a significant portion of the required training, including initial, recurrent, refresher, and update training, is hands-on and practical in nature. Practical aspects can only be effectively learned through proper environment and equipment.

What Are the Required Trainings?

Cabin crew undergo a range of specialized trainings each year. These include:

Aircraft Technical Training

Doors, slides, rafts evacuation Fire and smoke training (use of smoke hoods and fire extinguishers) Emergency Procedures (EPO, ELS, EMER GND PTCH, etc.)

Emergency Response

First aid (AED, CPR, EMT, MEDLINK, etc.) Handling unwell vs fit to fly passengers, aviation physiology

Operational Knowledge

Dangerous goods and cargo (lithium batteries, electric wheelchairs, pyrotechnics, etc.)

Safety Equipment and Procedures

Torches, ropes, megaphones, ELTs (Emergency Locator Transponders) Oxygen systems, cabin and flight deck

Crew Resource Management (CRM)

Conflict resolution, teamwork, human resources management

Water Survival and Ditching Training

Life jackets and survival rafts Water survival equipment

Survival Training

SOS (Send Out Signal), ELTs (Emergency Locator Transponders) Survival training for land and sea, often exciting for ex-military crew members!

Security Training

Crew threats, airline threats, safety threats on board Security searches, restraints, police action, de-escalation training, handling bombs and weapons

Customer Service Training

Varying from airline to airline, ranging from wine service to scratch cards

Instructor Upgrade Training

Junior to senior cabin managers and directors

Some of these trainings, like the initial ones, are intensive, lasting several days, while recurrent training is typically shorter, just 1-3 days. For example, initial dangerous goods training can be extensive and needs a classroom setting, but recurrent training can sometimes be done online, particularly with Computer Based Training (CBT) modules that allow for self-paced learning and exam checks.

Benefits and Limitations of Online Training

Online and CBT modules are becoming increasingly more common in the aviation industry. They offer the advantage of being more cost-effective, easily accessible, and can be self-paced. This reduces the need for travel and central location training, making it a convenient option. Moreover, self-paced modules can provide a solid base of knowledge before practical training.

However, practical and hands-on training cannot be fully replaced by online courses. Professional flying and cabin crew roles require a deep understanding of specific equipment, procedures, and environments. For instance, hands-on skills such as physically throwing yourself and 50 others into a life raft, or handling emergencies on a moving aircraft, cannot be adequately taught through videos and tests alone.

The Future of Training

The aviation industry is moving towards a hybrid model, combining the benefits of both online and practical training. This approach provides a comprehensive learning experience, blending the best aspects of each method. For jobs in aviation, a blended model is often the most effective strategy.

In summary, while online courses and CBT modules are valuable and play a significant role in training, they are typically supplementary to practical training. To ensure the highest level of safety and proficiency, both types of training are crucial.