Abstract:

Vocational education and training in aircraft maintenance face new challenges. Currently, European regulations for aircraft maintenance training are time- and theory-based, as prescribed by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). However, with the introduction of Competency-Based Training and Assessment (CBTA) as a potential pathway to licensing, a paradigm shift in aircraft maintenance education and training is emerging. The new CBTA pathway extends beyond technical knowledge and skills and includes non-technical, transversal competencies (TVCs).

This qualitative study examines what effective CBTA implementation entails and how TVCs can be trained within the context of aircraft maintenance education. Using focus groups, we developed an educational approach that stakeholders judged to be reliable, valid, and feasible. Results indicate that holistic, scenario-based instruction in progressively complex simulated environments supports effective transversal competency development. Instructors require training in performance observation, feedback delivery, maintaining objectivity, and adopting a growth mindset.

Although aviation stakeholders view the implementation of CBTA with the inclusion of TVCs as essential for enhancing aviation safety, they anticipate resistance from regulatory bodies and educational organisations. These findings provide practical guidance for embedding TVCs within CBTA for aircraft maintenance engineers across industry, education, and regulatory bodies.

Keywords:

Transversal Competencies, Aircraft Maintenance Training and Education, Training validation, Vocational Education and Training.