Dragonair has been approved as a Type Rating Training Organisation (TRTO) by the Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department (CAD). This means the airline can now offer A320, A330, B747, Multi-Crew Co-operation, Type Rating Instructor, and Type Rating Examiner training programmes under this widely recognised global standard.

A Type Rating is the qualification required by pilots to operate a specific airliner. While Type Ratings are issued in Hong Kong through a sound and well-established process, the TRTO simply takes prescribed standards to a more detailed and defined level.

To receive TRTO certification, Dragonair was required to meet defined standards in quality systems, documentation, records, personnel qualifications, facilities, and training equipment.

"We are delighted to receive approval, given that TRTO is referenced to best practice worldwide," said John Bent, Manager, Flight Training Centre. "The process of TRTO development has been positive for Dragonair's Flight Crew Training Department, while approval demonstrates the quality of the processes we now have in place.

"As a result of TRTO approval we will be able to bring some previously external processes, such as Type Rating Examinations, in-house. At the same time, certification enhances Dragonair's attractiveness as a training partner to other airlines."

Dragonair is the third TRTO approved in Hong Kong by the CAD.

"As well as being good for Dragonair, our TRTO certification is good for Hong Kong, strengthening the city's position as a centre for aviation training excellence," said Mr. Bent.