MetroAir partners with ZLA on Training

http://www.metroairvirtual.com/files/sigs/newsdesk_nc.jpg. . . .MetroAir announces partnership with ZLAMetroAir is pleased to announce that starting today, the Training Department will be working in conjunction with VATUSA's Los Angeles ARTCC to offer our pilots high-quality training in VFR & IFR operations. ZLA began offering voluntary Pilot Certifications in the Fall of 2006. This program will not be a requirement for MetroAir pilots but is strongly encouraged. Metro pilots will be able to work on anything from fundamental pattern skills to complex non-precision IFR approaches, all with some of the most realistic & professional online ATC coverage available. The ZLA program is self-directed and self-paced to allow pilots the freedom to learn on their own schedule and at their own pace, which is a great fit for Metro's diverse pilot training needs."It made perfect sense to utilize ZLA's Pilot Certification Center. ZLA is one of the most professional and most feared areas on VATSIM for new pilots. We believe that once a pilot has completed all the certifications, he or she will be able to fly anywhere on Vatsim with skill and confidence." said Lindle Romero, MetroAir's Training Director. Mr. Romero continued by saying, "If you can fly in ZLA, you can fly anywhere!" Mr. Romero has completed the first four ratings in the series to ensure that the ZLA Pilot Certification Center would fit in with the goals and needs to MetroAir's Training Initiatives. After 3 days in Southern California, Mr. Romero came back with a sunburn from the Southern California sun but was happy to report that a partnership with ZLA was the way to go. Matt Calsada, MetroAir's Chief Operating Officer, was overheard saying "This is a great opportunity for our pilots, the airline and for ZLA. We're excited and anxious to see our pilots utilize this fantastic service." The MetroAir Management team has been developing a pilot training program since Mr. Romero was hired. It is believed that the ZLA Pilot Certification Center will be an integral piece to MetroAir's Training Program and will balance out the program. ZLA ratings are well documented with charts of the areas and airports. The ARTCC provides detailed instructions on how to pass the certifications including sample dialog for communications, information on flying SIDS/STARS and Frequently asked Questions. They also provide sample videos and pictures to demonstrate procedures.MetroAir pilots that are interested in this unique opportunity are encourage to register at [ZLA's Pilot Certification Center. When you go to complete your first rating, make sure that you tell the controller that you're with Metro Air so you will be added to the Metro Air Certification roster. You will only need to do this on your first certification rating. MetroAir would like to thank Keith Smith with ZLA for getting MetroAir setup with the program. Keith is a ZLA controller and owner of the ZLA pilot certification program.For more information on this press release or information regarding MetroAir's partnership with the ZLA Pilot Certification, please contact Mr. Romero.-------------Useful links:Los Angeles ARTCC: http://laartcc.orgPilot Certification Center: http://pilotcerts.laartcc.org/page/HomeContact Lindle: http://www.metroairvirtual.com/contact.phpKeith Smith: http://www.laartcc.org/profile/879675