Vista has received the first evidence-based training certification awarded to a business aviation operator. The Malta-based operating partner, achieved baseline EBT approval from European regulators for its data-driven flight crew training methodology.
The company began implementing EBT in 2018, ahead of other business aviation operators. Evidence-based training represents a performance-focused methodology that uses real-world data to guide instruction rather than traditional repetitive maneuver training.
“We were the first to implement EBT in business aviation—years ahead of the industry,” said Nick van der Meer, chief operating officer at Vista. “Achieving this certification is more than a regulatory milestone; it’s proof of Vista’s relentless commitment to protecting our clients and crew.”
EBT enables flight crews to develop core competencies for managing real-world scenarios and promotes critical thinking in dynamic flight environments. The training methodology focuses on adaptive instruction guided by performance data to ensure relevant and operationally effective training.
VistaJet’s EBT program includes in-house simulator instructors and examiners, standardization programs across fleets and crews, and comprehensive data gathering with thousands of data points recorded and analyzed. The system integrates operational and industry safety data into training content and delivery.
The certification comes as aviation faces increased aircraft utilization, complex flight operations and evolving risk factors creating new requirements for pilot training and safety management. According to Vista, evidence-based systems tailor instruction to specific operational needs and crew performance data.
Vista operates the Vista Training Academy across regional operating centers, training cabin hosts and pilots to standards from institutions including the British Butler Institute, MedAire and the Wine & Spirit Education Trust. The company conducts standardization programs for crew flying Global, Challenger and Citation aircraft.
EBT has gained recognition as a training standard in commercial aviation and represents formal recognition by European regulators. The methodology moves away from limited repetitive maneuver training toward data-driven instruction based on real performance metrics.
