MPL Training in Vietnam Proves Its Value as New Cadets Join the Cockpit-Ready Workforce

The recent graduation of nine cadets from the joint BAA Training Vietnam and Vietnam’s Bamboo Airways Multi-crew Pilot License (MPL) program highlights the importance of airline-focused training pathways in addressing the global pilot shortage challenge.

Since its launch in 2023, the MPL program has been designed not just to train pilots, but to prepare them for the realities of modern airline operations from their very first lesson. By combining advanced simulator sessions, competency-based training, and the direct involvement of airline instructors, cadets transition more quickly and confidently into airline First Officer roles.

"The essence of this training program is about giving cadets the tools, mindset, and airline experience they need from the start," said Vytautas Jankauskas, Managing Director at BAA Training Vietnam. "The result is a new generation of pilots who are better prepared for the demands of commercial aviation—and that means a stronger, more resilient future for the industry. We’re delighted to see the cadets from our MPL training program with Bamboo Airways graduate with quality education and experience under their belts."

At the event, Mr. Truong Phuong Thanh, CEO of Bamboo Airways, congratulated the first MPL cadets on their graduation.

“In the past, pilot training in Vietnam was conducted entirely overseas. Nowadays, with the authorization of the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam and the training partnership between BAA Training Vietnam and Bamboo Airways, we have successfully launched domestic pilot training programs,” he remarked. “Bamboo Airways is proud to welcome these graduates to our team of pilots and looks forward to seeing them continually hone their skills and professionalism, ensuring safe and efficient flights in the future.”

A key advantage of the MPL approach is the heavy reliance on advanced simulators. This allows cadets to experience complex, unusual, or high-risk flight scenarios in a safe environment—situations they might rarely encounter during traditional flight training. It also ensures consistent training capacity, independent of weather conditions or aircraft availability, while giving airlines confidence that graduates can handle the full spectrum of operational challenges.

With aviation growth accelerating in the region, programs like the one in Vietnam demonstrate how tailored, airline-partnered training can close the gap between demand and supply of qualified pilots. For cadets, it represents a direct route to the flight deck. For the industry, it marks a step toward long-term sustainability in pilot development.