The Challenge in Accordance with CAT.GEN.MPA.175(b): Accessing the Best Candidates
Under CAT.GEN.MPA.175(b), operators are required to ensure that their flight crew selection processes are systematic, transparent, and based on validated methods. However, implementing these requirements in practice often presents a challenge — especially when it comes to reaching the most qualified candidates.
The most experienced pilots are frequently also the least available. Their schedules are filled with line operations, simulator checks, and duty obligations, leaving little flexibility for multi-day, in-person assessments. Traditional selection formats can therefore become a bottleneck rather than a gateway, creating inefficiencies that delay recruitment and increase costs.
At the same time, the regulation emphasizes fairness, standardization, and traceability in the selection process. Balancing these requirements with operational realities — and ensuring access to top talent — is exactly where modern, digital assessment solutions provide a measurable advantage.
From Bottleneck to Strategic Advantage
Volando views digital assessments not as a substitute for established selection methods, but as a strategic enhancement to them. The goal is to make pilot recruitment more streamlined, scalable, and evidence-based — without sacrificing compliance or the human element.
Smarter, Scalable, and Secure
With Volando’s AI-proctored, self-paced assessments, candidates can complete the initial stages of their evaluation online, from anywhere in the world. This flexibility allows operators to efficiently pre-select candidates while maintaining the highest standards of quality assurance, security, and data integrity.
Our digital system enables airlines, AOCs, and training organizations to:
- Pre-select efficiently, using standardized, psychometrically validated data.
- Reduce logistical and financial burdens, including travel and simulator dependencies.
- Ensure full compliance with CAT.GEN.MPA.175(b) and international audit requirements.
- Enhance the candidate experience, with flexible access and consistent evaluation standards.
This approach provides measurable value to both sides: it respects candidates’ limited availability and enables operators to make informed, data-driven selection decisions.
The Human Factor Remains Central
While digital assessments optimize efficiency, they do not replace the essential human component of pilot recruitment. The final assessment stage — combining a simulator screening with a structured personal interview — remains indispensable. It provides a comprehensive understanding of technical ability, behavioral competence, and decision-making under realistic operational conditions.
By filtering candidates through standardized digital assessments first, operators can focus simulator time and personal interviews on the most suitable applicants — ensuring both efficiency and depth in the final evaluation.
A Modern, Compliant, and Balanced Approach
The integration of digital precision with human expertise creates a recruitment process that is robust, auditable, and aligned with modern operational and regulatory standards. At Volando, we work with operators to design modular, scientifically validated assessment solutions that combine flexibility with compliance — ensuring each selection process meets the highest professional benchmarks while preserving the human dimension of aviation.
Because effective recruitment is not just about filling positions. It’s about selecting pilots who are operationally capable, psychologically resilient, and ready to represent the safety culture of your organization.
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