Command
Upgrade Course

Ready for the Left Seat? Prepare to be a Command with MACH Aviation Academy!

Successfully unfreezing your ATPL and holding a full ATPL(A) license is a major achievement — but it’s only one step toward becoming a designated Captain on a multi-crew aircraft. According to regulations, only operators (airlines) can assign a pilot as Pilot-in-Command (PIC), and only after successful completion of a Command Upgrade Course.

At MACH Aviation Academy, we offer tailor-made Command Upgrade Training programs that meet airline-specific requirements and prepare you for your next big role: Captain.

Why Choose MACH Aviation Academy?

Led by Airline Captains and Examiners – All Command Upgrade sessions are delivered by active airline captains, many of whom serve as TRI/TREs and have thousands of command hours on type. You’ll learn not only from the book — but from real-world scenarios and frontline experience. (Check out our Instructors)
Focused on Real Command Readiness – This is not just about ticking a box. It’s about building real confidence and situational awareness so that you’re ready to lead — decisively and safely — on your first day in the left seat.
Flexible and Modular Delivery -We know that command candidates are often on tight schedules. That’s why we offer:

Custom scheduling (including weekends and evenings)
Full briefing and debriefing after each session

Compliant. Professional. Proven. -We follow EASA-compliant structures, and our success stories span many reputable European and international airlines.
Step Into Command — The Right Way – The left seat is more than just a position. It’s a mindset, a responsibility, and a leadership role. Let us help you prepare for it.

About the Course

What is Command Upgrade Training?

Even though you’re legally allowed to act as PIC once you hold an ATPL, your airline operator requires a formal Command Course to ensure you’re fully ready to assume command responsibilities — both from a technical and behavioral standpoint. Check out if you want to know more about this course.

This Command Upgrade program is a structured training pathway to prepare you for:

Decision-making in high-pressure situations
Leadership in a multi-crew environment
Responsibility for the aircraft, crew, passengers, and cargo
Taking the left seat — with confidence and competence

Course Overview

Our Command Upgrade Training includes both theoretical and practical components, and can be fully adapted to your operator’s specific SOPs and fleet requirements.

Theoretical Training (1 days)

Advanced CRM (Crew Resource Management)
Leadership and communication
Decision-making models and judgment under pressure
Operator-specific command responsibilities
Threat and Error Management (TEM)
Operational procedures and case studies
Aviation Law

Simulator Training (2 x 4-hour Full Flight Simulator sessions)

Realistic command scenarios
Line-oriented flight training (LOFT)
Emergency decision-making
Operational leadership in various weather and technical failure situations
Simulated base checks and final command evaluation

We align the simulator portion with the airline’s expectations, aircraft type, and procedural framework (SOPs, MELs, etc.) to ensure seamless transition to your actual operational environment.