8 January 2019: Quantum has selected OSM Aviation Academy as a preferred pilot training partner pursuant to a comprehensive agreement. A Quantum-branded pilot training programme will be established at OSM Aviation Academy and the agreement consist of a commitment by OSM to refer a steady supply of pilots trained to FAA commercial standards. Quantum Air will be providing tuition reimbursement for selected OSM cadets.
Both the companies have placed large orders for the eFlyer all-electric aircraft from Bye Aerospace in Denver, Colorado.In total 160 zero-emission aircraft with considerably lower noise pollution and enhanced altitude performance will be delivered to the two companies starting at the end of 2021.
For student cadets in OSM's Quantum-branded training program, OSM will use eFlyer aircraft. "Quantum's partnership with OSM means that Quantum pilots will fly commercially in essentially the same aircraft in which they trained," said Tony Thompson, founder and CEO of Quantum. "Quantum commercial pilots will be intimately familiar with their aircraft, setting a new standard for safety."
"Air travel is instrumental in bringing people together both regionally and internationally. Since humans will always have the urge to explore this world, we need to find sustainable solutions to meet that need." Said Espen Hoiby, CEO of OSM Aviation Group. "Therefore, OSM Aviation is excited to join forces with Quantum Air to shape a greener and safer aviation industry in the years to come."
"I expect to receive pilots from OSM who will already know Quantum's aircraft systems inside and out," added Scott Akina, Quantum's Vice President and Chief Pilot. "And this will be no small part of the reason why Quantum will run the safest operation in the airline industry."
George Bye, CEO of Bye Aerospace, said he is impressed with the collaborative partnership between OSM and Quantum. "Electric aviation, including our eFlyer family of electric aircraft, is the springboard for a movement that we believe will breathe new life into the aviation industry," he said. "That includes implementing creative ways to improve effective, economic access to pilot training. The OSM-Quantum model, which focuses foremost on new professional pilot training safety, aligns perfectly with Bye Aerospace's principles."