Muhammed Elbaal, acting line maintenance manager, and Francesc Torres, managing director of production, provided information on how pilot training is conducted and what standards are applied to aircraft operations.
Elbaal emphasized that the requirements for pilots have significantly increased in recent years.
“We conduct a multi-stage selection process. Pilots are trained according to international standards; many of them are graduates of the Aviation Academy of Kazakhstan and professionals with experience in foreign airlines,” he noted.
According to Elbaal, pilot training is not limited to just academic courses and training. It is important for them to continuously update their knowledge throughout their professional activities. "Pilots must keep track of changes in regulations, take online courses, and participate in training. Theory is the foundation, but practical training begins after obtaining a type rating, which includes regular exercises and working with instructors," he added.
Aircraft maintenance also holds significant importance. The company distinguishes between two types of maintenance: preventive and corrective. The former allows for the identification of potential issues before they arise, while the latter addresses existing malfunctions. "We follow ICAO standards and EASA requirements. All critical operations undergo double-checking. Before starting work on an aircraft, each specialist undergoes mandatory training," Elbaal added.
Currently, Vietjet Qazaqstan operates Q400 turboprop aircraft, which are popular for regional transport due to their resilience to challenging weather conditions and high energy efficiency. These aircraft are equipped with backup systems for key functions—from hydraulics to control.
Francesc Torres added that this refers to the Dash 8 Q400 modification: "This twin-engine aircraft has a power of 5000 hp per engine and accommodates 86 passengers. Its cruising speed is about 650 km/h. System redundancy ensures control even when switching to manual mode," he explained.
Modern pilots work under high pressure: night shifts, intercity flights, and quick turnarounds between flights. "We emphasize that pilots should critically assess their actions and acknowledge mistakes. This is an important aspect of their professional growth," Torres noted.
Among the fleet of aircraft, there are also new models. One of the Q400s was released eight years ago and belongs to a modernized line with improved engines that are quieter and more economical.
Despite advanced technologies, the human factor remains key to ensuring safety. Vietjet Qazaqstan assures that all crew members, including pilots and flight attendants, undergo training aimed at interacting with passengers and preventing unusual situations. "Our task is to ensure comfort and confidence for passengers throughout the flight," Torres concluded.
