Jet Equivalency Training
"It was probably one of the most rewarding courses I had taken in college with fantastic instructors. I realize I am much more marketable as a graduate of the College of Aviation with this course. I attended a job fair in Chicago recently and every regional airline I talked to was immediately interested in me when I had mentioned I was a Western graduate presently instructing at Western. Then, as soon as I had mentioned I have enrolled in the jet course, every regional I talked to immediately was offering interview dates. I realize the value of this education and I am quite thankful." —Madhu Murugesan
Western Michigan University's JET Program (AVS 4300: Jet Equivalency Training) is an essential part of the education process to prepare students for a career as a professional in the aviation industry. This program acts as a bridge between single-pilot resource management—SRM—and crew resource management—CRM—and is different from a typical University course because the learning is very compact. In the airline industry, pilots must be able to communicate with each other verbally and non-verbally, and directly and indirectly using aircraft systems. In addition to working with each other, it teaches the pilots the communication skills necessary to work effectively with other crewmembers. This training aids in preparing pilots to succeed in simulator evaluation during the hiring process, to excel in initial training provided by the airline, and to fly professionally with a multi-person crew.
Course preparation
JET mimics initial airline training; pilots are required to complete a computer-based training course on aircraft systems, operations, etc. prior to the first day of the program. This provides for aircraft familiarity and allows pilots to obtain a complete sense of CRM and jet flight during a shorter, more intense amount of time.
Simulation platform
JET program participants fly a Level 5 CRJ-200 flight-training device. The cockpit is identical to a Canadair Regional Jet with a 220° wrap-around, high-fidelity visual presentation, providing a true-to-flight view of flying the aircraft.
Program duration
Each JET session is comprised of five days of ground school followed by 10 4-hour simulator flights. Total length: 15 days. Total simulated flight training: 40 hours.
Enrollment
The JET Program is open to any student or graduate who meets the rating and course requirements. To apply, please contact Linda Dillon in Flight Operations.
Course prerequisites
- AVS 3560: Professional Flight IV Lab
- AVS 4110: Airline Flight Operations
- AVS 4120: Line Oriented Flight Crew Simulation
Rating requirements
Applicants must have completed a Commercial Pilot License with Instrument and Multi-Engine ratings. A Certified Flight Instructor License—CFI—is not required for this course.