Researchers at the Waterloo Institute for Sustainable Aeronautics (WISA) are incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning algorithms to train more airplane pilots in a shorter amount of time and in a more environmentally friendly way. This initiative comes as Canada faces a significant pilot shortage, with a need for 7,300 more pilots by 2025 [407388cf].
To further address the pilot shortage, the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) in Nigeria has deployed cadet pilot trainees to South Africa for type-rating training. The PAP Office has sent trainees to SIM Aerotraining Ltd in Johannesburg for vocational training in aircraft maintenance engineering and cadet pilot training. This vocational training is seen as a crucial component in the development of the Niger Delta manpower base [0d681acf].
The use of AI in pilot training is a sustainable approach that aims to optimize pilot training programs. By analyzing data collected from flight simulators and aircraft, WISA aims to develop AI tools that can assess pilot performance and provide valuable insights to instructors. This will not only help train more pilots but also contribute to a more sustainable aviation industry [407388cf].
In addition to AI training, vocational training programs like the one offered by the PAP Office in Nigeria are crucial in addressing the pilot shortage. By providing opportunities for cadet pilot trainees to receive type-rating training and aircraft maintenance engineering training, the PAP Office is working towards developing a skilled workforce in the aviation industry [0d681acf].
The research project at WISA has received a $296,500 Research-for-Impact contribution to fund their efforts in incorporating AI technologies into pilot training. This funding will support the development and implementation of AI tools that can optimize pilot training and address the pilot shortage in Canada. The goal is to train more pilots in a shorter amount of time while considering the environmental impact of increased air travel [407388cf].
Both the use of AI in pilot training and vocational training programs like the one offered by the PAP Office are proactive approaches to address the pilot shortage and improve the sustainability of the aviation industry. By leveraging AI technologies and providing vocational training opportunities, these initiatives aim to train more pilots efficiently and develop a skilled workforce in the aviation industry [407388cf] [0d681acf].