A Quantitative Analysis of the Impact of Traditional vs. MPL (Multi-Crew Pilot License) Training Pathways on Operational Performance: A 15-Month FDM Data Study
Abstract
Quantitative data on the long-term operational impact of the Multi-Crew Pilot License (MPL) model, which has emerged as a competency-based alternative in the pilot training industry, remains limited. This study aims to quantitatively analyze the operational performance differences between First Officers (FOs) graduated from Traditional (CPL/IR/MCC) and MPL pathways using Flight Data Monitoring (FDM) metrics. This retrospective cohort study analyzed FDM data collected from a single airline fleet over a 15-month period (January 2024 - March 2025). The study included 123 MPL and 251 Traditional pathway graduate FOs. Exceedance rates (per 1,000 segments) for 17 distinct FDM events and 7 critical manual flight parameters were compared, evaluating statistical significance at the p < 0.05 level using Fisher’s Exact Test. The analysis revealed a statistically significant lower-risk profile for the MPL group in critical landing parameters. The MPL group experienced significantly fewer exceedances in events such as ‘Hard Landing’ (p = 0.008) and ‘Long Touchdown’ (p < 0.001) compared to the traditional group. Furthermore, the MPL group performed better in procedural and safety-critical categories such as 'Fuel Imbalance' and 'Stall Warning'. These findings do not support claims that MPL training negatively impacts operational performance or manual flying skills.
Keywords
References
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Details
Primary Language
English
Subjects
Sensory Processes, Perception and Performance
Journal Section
Research Article
Publication Date
April 24, 2026
Submission Date
February 23, 2026
Acceptance Date
March 24, 2026
Published in Issue
Year 2026 Volume: 3 Number: 1