Delta Connection Academy

Quality Airline Training

At Delta Connection Academy we have always believed that the key to producing successful airline pilots is their training. From the first day of their training they are immersed in such concepts as Crew Resource Management (CRM), Single Pilot Management (SRM) and Aeronautical Decision Making (ADM) to name but a few. Theses fundamentals incorporated with the formalized training courses and demanding regimen help produce well rounded, safe pilots.

In addition to their normal lessons, students are evaluated by Federal Aviation Administration designated Check Instructors. These Check Instructors have completed 30 hours of additional training and are evaluated monthly by the department to ensure continued quality and objectivity. The evaluations assess the core competencies of the pilot and ensure that they are progressing at the pace and to the caliber that we expect at Delta Connection Academy.

When a student completes their training courses (through to the completion of the Certified Flight Instructor – Instrument Rating) they are then put through an interview and screening process similar to that used by many of today’s top regional and major airlines. Each student must successfully complete a three phase selection process. Phase 1 is a series Neo Cognitive and Multi Aptitude Battery, followed by phase 2 which is a written test that must be completed successfully with a minimum score to exceed 80%. Once phases 1 and 2 are complete the student will sit a 3 person board style interview. This whole process is designed not only to ensure that we at Delta Connection Academy employ the best instructors, but it also gives the applicants a glimpse at what their interview at the airlines will be like.

If successful the applicant will be offered a position with the company contingent on their completion of the company Standardization class. This class is modeled on the current Delta Connection regional airline industry standard training. Most regional carriers have a class that ranges from 4 to 7 weeks in length and comprises of a series of written and flight tests. At Delta Connection Academy we are no different. The applicants will complete a series of 5 written tests, all of which must be completed to a grade standard of 90% or higher. In addition there are two flight evaluations. These are conducted in a similar manner to those at the airlines and demand a higher standard of performance than is outlined by the FAA.

If the applicant completes the Standardization class successfully they will be offered a position with Delta Connection Academy as a Flight Instructor where they will build up to 1000 hours of flight time. The testing does not end though. During their tenure as a flight instructor they will need to complete an additional 4 evaluation flights as well as pass backseat evaluations conducted by the Flight Standards Department (usually one every 3 months).

This process culminates in the flight instructor attending our “Jet Transition” course. This course is the final transition that needs to occur prior to the flights instructor’s departure to fly for an airline. The course prepares them mentally, psychologically and most importantly sends them to the airline of their choice having flown that companies procedures prior to arrival for their interview.