This article is based on an official press release from CAE and Cebu Pacific.

At the Singapore Airshow 2026, Cebu Pacific (CEB) and CAE announced a significant extension of their long-standing pilot training partnership. The renewed agreement secures training services for the airline’s Airbus A320 fleet through the year 2037, alongside a long-term extension for its ATR 72-600 fleet. This move underscores the Philippine carrier’s strategy to lock in essential operational resources amidst a period of aggressive fleet expansion.

The agreement ensures that Cebu Pacific’s pilots will continue to train at CAE Philippines, a joint venture facility located in the Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga. By securing local, high-fidelity training capacity for the next decade and beyond, the airline aims to support its growing order book and maintain rigorous safety standards.

Securing Long-Term Operational Stability

According to the joint announcement, the extended contract covers the entirety of Cebu Pacific’s narrowbody and regional operations. The specific extension of the Airbus A320 training services until 2037 represents a substantial commitment, aligning the training pipeline with the lifespan of the aircraft currently entering the fleet.

Javier Massot, Chief Operations Officer at Cebu Pacific, emphasized the critical nature of this partnership for the airline’s future.

“Extending our training services agreements with CAE underscores Cebu Pacific’s commitment to safety, operational excellence, and long-term growth. As we continue to expand our fleet and network, it is critical that we invest in world-class pilot training to support a strong and sustainable pipeline of aviation professionals.”

, Javier Massot, Chief Operations Officer, Cebu Pacific

In addition to the A320 extension, the agreement prolongs the training services for the ATR 72-600 fleet, which is vital for the carrier’s inter-island connectivity across the Philippines.

Infrastructure and Fleet Expansion

The training will continue to take place at the CAE Philippines facility in Clark, which was established as a joint venture between the two companies in 2011. The center currently houses three Airbus A320 Full-Flight Simulators (FFS) and one ATR 72-600 FFS.

To accommodate Cebu Pacific’s shift toward larger aircraft for high-density and long-haul routes, the facility is also preparing for an upgrade. As previously announced, a new Airbus A330neo Full-Flight Simulator is scheduled to be operational at the center by December 2026. This addition will be the first widebody simulator at the site, allowing the airline to consolidate training for its entire fleet within the Philippines.

Alexandre Prévost, Division President, Civil Aviation at CAE, noted the importance of the renewed collaboration.

“The renewal of these agreements reflects the strength of our partnership with Cebu Pacific. We are proud to support Cebu Pacific’s expanding operations and to extend our partnership by delivering high-fidelity training solutions that prepare their pilots for safe and successful careers.”

, Alexandre Prévost, Division President, Civil Aviation, CAE

AirPro News Analysis: The Strategic Context

We view this extension as a necessary defensive measure in an increasingly competitive labor market. With Cebu Pacific finalizing a historic order for up to 152 Airbus A321neo aircraft in late 2024, the physical hardware is secured, but the human capital required to operate it remains a bottleneck.

According to CAE’s own 2025 Aviation Talent Forecast, the Asia-Pacific region is projected to require approximately 98,000 new commercial pilots over the next decade. By locking in simulator capacity through 2037, Cebu Pacific is insulating itself from potential training capacity shortages that could plague the region as other carriers ramp up operations.

Furthermore, the localization of training in Clark offers a distinct cost advantage. It eliminates the logistical complexity and expense of sending crews abroad for recurrent training, thereby lowering the unit cost of operation, a critical metric for a low-cost carrier.

Sources

• CAE Press Release

This article is based on an official press release from Dynon Avionics.

Dynon SkyView HDX Autopilot Receives FAA Approval for Vintage Mooney Models

Dynon Avionics has officially announced FAA approval for the installation of its SkyView HDX autopilot system in Mooney M20C, M20D, M20E, and M20F aircraft. This certification expands the company’s reach into the vintage general aviation market, offering a modern, digital flight control solution for airframes dating back to the 1960s.

According to the company’s announcement on February 3, 2026, this approval builds upon previous certifications for the later M20J and M20K models. The update provides owners of these earlier “short body” Mooneys with a pathway to replace aging vacuum-based systems with fully integrated glass-cockpit technology. The system is available immediately for installation through authorized centers.

Technical Capabilities and Safety Features

The newly approved system offers comprehensive 3-axis control, covering pitch, roll, and yaw. A significant addition for the Mooney fleet, which is often noted for “dutch roll” tendencies in turbulence, is the inclusion of a yaw damper. This feature actively coordinates turns and stabilizes the aircraft, improving passenger comfort and pilot workload.

Dynon states that the autopilot is fully IFR-capable when paired with a compatible third-party navigator, such as the Avidyne IFD or Garmin GTN series. In this configuration, the system can fly coupled approaches, including ILS, LPV, and VOR procedures.

Beyond standard navigation, the system introduces safety features previously unavailable to these vintage airframes. The autopilot includes envelope protection to prevent overspeed and underspeed conditions. Additionally, it features a “Level Mode,” which allows a pilot to instantly return the aircraft to straight-and-level flight with the press of a button, a critical safety tool in potential spatial disorientation scenarios.

Installation Requirements and Pricing

It is important for owners to note that this is not a standalone autopilot. According to Dynon’s technical specifications, the autopilot servos must be driven by a SkyView HDX primary flight display (PFD). This requirement means that installing the autopilot effectively necessitates a partial panel upgrade to a glass cockpit.

The pricing structure released by Dynon breaks down as follows:

• Autopilot Package: Starts at $6,755 (includes servos, mounting brackets, and harnesses).
• Required Display: A 7-inch SkyView HDX display is approximately $3,286, while the 10-inch version is listed at roughly $4,625.
• Optional Components: A dedicated Autopilot Control Panel is available for $697, and a Knob Control Panel for $352.

The M20D “Master,” originally sold with fixed gear but often converted to retractable gear, is covered under this approval regardless of its landing gear status.

AirPro News Analysis

This announcement represents a significant shift in the retrofit market for legacy aircraft. For decades, owners of 1960s and 70s Mooneys have relied on pneumatic autopilots, such as the Brittain systems, which are becoming increasingly difficult and expensive to repair. By offering a digital alternative, Dynon is effectively allowing these airframes to bypass generations of analog technology.

From a market perspective, this move intensifies the competition with Garmin. While Garmin’s GFC 500 is widely considered the “gold standard” for retrofits, it generally commands a premium price and requires integration into the Garmin ecosystem (typically requiring a G5 or G3X display). Dynon’s offering, with an entry price for the autopilot hardware under $7,000, presents a cost-effective alternative for owners who may find the total cost of a Garmin panel difficult to justify relative to the hull value of an older M20C or E.

However, the “hidden cost” remains the requirement for the SkyView HDX screen. While the autopilot hardware is competitively priced, the total installed cost, including the display, labor, and panel work, will likely fall in the $15,000 to $20,000 range. Nevertheless, for owners committed to keeping these efficient airframes flying, this approval offers a vital modernization path that enhances both utility and safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Mooney models are covered by this new approval?
The FAA approval covers the Mooney M20C (Ranger), M20D (Master), M20E (Chaparral/Super 21), and M20F (Executive). The M20J and M20K were previously approved.

Can I install the autopilot without a Dynon screen?
No. The Dynon autopilot is software-integrated and requires a SkyView HDX flight display to function. It cannot operate as a standalone unit with analog gauges.

Does the system replace my vacuum pump?
Yes, the Dynon system is fully digital. If an owner installs the SkyView HDX and suitable backup instruments, the vacuum system, a common point of mechanical failure, can often be removed entirely.

Sources

• Dynon Avionics

This article is based on an official press release from Amideast and Boeing.

Amideast and Boeing Launch AeroSTAR STEM Initiative Across MENA Region

In a significant move to bolster the aerospace workforce pipeline in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), non-profit organization Amideast and aerospace giant Boeing have announced the launch of “AeroSTAR.” This new Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education program is designed to equip high school students with the technical knowledge and soft skills required for future careers in Aviation.

According to the official announcement, the program will target students aged 15 to 18 across five key nations: Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, Morocco, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The initiative aims to bridge the gap between academic theory and practical industry application, preparing the next generation of engineers, pilots, and technicians to meet growing regional demand.

Program Structure and Curriculum

The AeroSTAR initiative is structured to move students beyond traditional classroom learning into hands-on aerospace applications. As outlined in the program details, the curriculum is divided into three distinct phases designed to engage approximately 216 students in 2026.

Phase 1: The AeroSTAR Academy

The core of the program is the AeroSTAR Academy, a 60-hour curriculum delivered over 10 to 12 weeks. Amideast states that this phase combines technical aerospace concepts with essential professional skills, such as problem-solving and communication. Students will participate in virtual field trips to Boeing facilities and engage with guest speakers from the industry to gain real-world insights.

Phase 2: The AeroSTAR Challenge

Following the academy phase, students will enter a national pitch competition. Teams will be tasked with presenting innovative solutions to real-world aerospace challenges. A panel of judges will evaluate these capstone projects, fostering a spirit of entrepreneurship and critical thinking among participants.

Phase 3: The AeroSTAR Camp

The program culminates in a regional event held in Amman, Jordan. According to the press release, top-performing students from each participating country will travel to the three-day immersive camp. This final stage focuses on networking, exploring aviation operations firsthand, and mapping out concrete career paths within the sector.

Strategic Alignment with Regional Visions

The launch of AeroSTAR comes at a critical time for the MENA region, where national economic visions are increasingly prioritizing high-tech industries and youth employment. Boeing’s market outlook estimates that the Middle East will require 234,000 new aviation professionals, including pilots, technicians, and cabin crew, over the next 20 years.

Fahad Al Mheiri, President of Boeing Middle East, Gulf, and North Africa, emphasized the importance of early engagement in building this workforce.

“Aviation is a cornerstone of Middle Eastern economies… AeroSTAR will show students that there are many exciting regional and international careers in aviation beyond being a pilot or a member of the cabin crew. By engaging students early, we are helping build a local talent pipeline.”

This initiative aligns with Boeing’s broader community Investments strategy. Over the last decade, the company reports contributing more than $29 million to community programs across the region.

AirPro News Analysis: Addressing the Skills Gap

While the MENA region produces a high volume of STEM graduates, a disconnect often remains between university output and the specific technical needs of the aerospace sector. Programs like AeroSTAR appear designed to address this “skills gap” by introducing industry-specific competencies at the high school level, years before students enter the labor market.

Furthermore, the program’s regional spread supports diverse national goals. For instance, the UAE’s “Mars 2117” vision and Morocco’s “Industrial Acceleration Plan” both rely heavily on reducing reliance on foreign talent and cultivating a homegrown specialized workforce. By standardizing the curriculum across these varied markets, Amideast and Boeing are effectively creating a cohesive baseline for aerospace education in the region.

Leadership Perspectives

Amideast, which serves as the implementation lead for the project, brings over 70 years of experience in regional education and Training. The organization will manage recruitment and curriculum delivery through its local offices.

Ambassador (ret.) Greta C. Holtz, President of Amideast, highlighted the organization’s commitment to youth empowerment in the official statement:

“We are committed to empowering talented youth to gain the skills and experience needed to advance their careers and strengthen their countries’ economic development.”

Application and Eligibility

The program is set to roll out activities in 2026. Applications will be managed locally, and interested students are advised to visit their country-specific Amideast website for details. Eligibility requirements include:

• Age: 15–18 years old.
• Residency: Must be a resident of Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, Morocco, or the UAE.
• Interests: Demonstrated motivation for STEM, aviation, and Innovation.
• Language: Proficiency in English is typically required as the curriculum is delivered in English.

Sources

• Zawya (Press Release)