FlightSafety International Offers Training for ‘Downsized’ Pilots/Techs

If you're a pilot or maintenance technician who's lost your job due to the economic downturn, FlightSafety is here to help. This week, the training organization announced the new, trademarked Proficiency Protection Program, in which pilots and maintenance technicians can receive continuing training at no cost while they look for work. The program provides business-aircraft pilots with recurrent training if they become involuntarily unemployed and were under a Full Service contract with FSI at the time they lost their job. Similarly, maintenance technicians who were enrolled in FSI's Master Technician program may receive the next course toward their Master Technician rating at no cost. Neither pilots nor technicians will be asked to reimburse FSI for the cost of the training once they find new employment, nor will they be required to enter into a new training contract with FSI. To be eligible, employees must have lost their job "due to staff reduction or job elimination" since January 1, 2009. Those who have been temporarily laid off, furloughed or lost their jobs for other reasons are not eligible. The program will remain in effect until December 31, 2009. Bruce Whitman, FlightSafety president and CEO said, "FlightSafety's mission is to enhance aviation safety by providing professional training that helps to ensure our customers reach and maintain the highest level of proficiency. [The Proficiency Protection Program] further demonstrates our support for the business aviation community and commitment to enhance safety." For more information about the program, go to flightsafety.com.