My training experience at Global Training Aviation Indonesia was excellent. Looking back, choosing GTA for my Airbus A320 Type Rating was one of the best decisions I made for my aviation career.
After completing my initial pilot training at Bali International Flight Academy (BIFA), I was looking for a training organisation that could prepare me not only to obtain an Airbus A320 Type Rating, but also to make a smooth transition into airline operations. From the very first day, I found exactly what I was looking for: a highly professional training environment, outstanding facilities and, above all, a team of people genuinely committed to helping every trainee succeed.
The training was based on the official Airbus aircraft manuals while constantly emphasizing practical decision-making. Rather than simply memorising procedures, we were encouraged to understand the reasoning behind every action, analyse different operational scenarios and develop the judgement that airline pilots need every day. That practical approach made the entire training experience much more valuable and prepared me for real-world airline operations.
One of GTA Indonesia’s greatest strengths is undoubtedly its instructors. They are not only highly professional and experienced, but they are also active airline pilots who continuously keep their knowledge up to date with the latest developments in aviation. Learning directly from instructors who fly the aircraft in real airline operations every day gave every lesson additional depth and realism. Their experience, professionalism and willingness to share practical knowledge made a significant difference throughout the course.
The training facilities also exceeded my expectations. During the programme we trained progressively using both the Virtual Procedure Trainer (VPT) and the Full Flight Simulator (FFS) Level D. Beginning with the VPT allowed us to build strong procedural knowledge before moving into the Full Flight Simulator, where everything came together in an incredibly realistic environment. The fidelity of the Level D simulator, from aircraft behaviour to cockpit systems and operational scenarios, creates an immersive experience that closely replicates real airline operations and maximises every training session.
Another unique aspect of my Airbus A320 Type Rating was the opportunity to perform real aircraft take-offs and landings as part of the programme. Very few Approved Training Organisations (ATOs) offer this experience, and for me it became one of the highlights of the course. It provided a perfect bridge between simulator training and actual aircraft operations, helping me build confidence before starting my professional airline career.
Beyond the technology and training devices, what truly makes GTA different is its people. The supportive and enjoyable learning environment created by everyone at GTA made the entire experience both demanding and rewarding. Every member of the staff was approachable, professional and always willing to help, allowing us to focus completely on our training.
I would especially like to thank Dewi and Ángel for all their support throughout my time at GTA Indonesia. Their kindness, dedication and willingness to help with every aspect of the programme made my experience even more enjoyable. They are a perfect example of the professionalism and personal attention that defines GTA.
Today I have the privilege of flying as a First Officer with AirAsia, and I continue to apply many of the skills, operational mindset and decision-making techniques that I developed during my Airbus A320 Type Rating at GTA Indonesia. I am convinced that the combination of experienced active airline instructors, world-class simulators, real aircraft training and an exceptional human team gave me an excellent foundation for my airline career.
I am sincerely grateful to everyone at Global Training Aviation Indonesia for helping me achieve this important milestone. I would highly recommend GTA to any pilot looking for a high-quality Airbus A320 Type Rating, world-class flight simulator training and genuine preparation for airline operations.
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Fajar Samudera completed his initial pilot training at Bali International Flight Academy (BIFA) before joining Global Training Aviation Indonesia in Jakarta to complete his Airbus A320 Type Rating. During the programme, he trained using both the Virtual Procedure Trainer (VPT) and a Full Flight Simulator (FFS) Level D, and completed real aircraft take-offs and landings, a unique feature that distinguishes GTA’s training programme in Indonesia. Today, he flies as a First Officer at AirAsia.
