At the Singapore Airshow, Airbus announced a landmark partnership with Cebu-based Indiana Aerospace University (IAU) to elevate the standard of aviation maintenance training in the Philippines. Through the integration of the Airbus Competence Training (ACT) for Academy solution, the collaboration aims to produce a “future-ready” workforce equipped to handle the complexities of modern narrow-body aircraft.
The agreement focuses on providing IAU students with a high-tech, computer-based training environment that mirrors real-world operational scenarios. By utilizing Airbus’ proprietary digital learning tools, students will gain specialized proficiency in the A320 Family—the world’s most popular single-aisle aircraft.
Key Highlights of the Partnership:
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Scale: Expected to benefit 5,000 students over five years.
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Curriculum Integration: IAU will debut the ACT for Academy software in its AY 2026-2027 curriculum.
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Industry Alignment: Training modules will cover the latest aircraft technologies, maintenance procedures, and global best practices. “Partnering with Airbus allows us to elevate our training programmes by aligning them more closely with real-world operational requirements,” said Harold E. Toring, CEO of Indiana Aerospace University. “Our students will gain practical exposure to modern maintenance environments, helping them transition confidently into the workforce.”
Anand Stanley, President of Airbus Asia-Pacific, emphasized the strategic importance of the region: “Developing skilled aviation professionals is critical to sustaining long-term growth. Our collaboration with IAU reflects Airbus’ focus on working with academic institutions to build a resilient talent pipeline across the region.”
This initiative underscores Airbus’ commitment to enhancing local capabilities within the Philippines. By bridging the gap between academic theory and industrial application, the partnership ensures that the next generation of Filipino aircraft mechanics and engineers are prepared to meet the evolving demands of the global market.
