Competency-Based Training and Assessment (CBTA) Approach in Aircraft Maintenance Technician Training

The global aviation industry has gained momentum in its post-pandemic recovery phase, and the need for a qualified workforce is increasing to sustain this growth. Aircraft maintenance technicians, in particular, play a critical role in ensuring flight safety. However, it is predicted that there will be a significant shortage of human resources in this field in the coming years.

According to Boeing’s 2024 Pilot and Technician Outlook report, by 2043, approximately 716,000 new maintenance technicians will be needed worldwide. Regionally, the report predicts 123,000 technicians in North America, 167,000 in Europe and Eurasia, 137,000 in China, and 77,000 in Southeast Asia. Similarly, Airbus’s 2023 Global Services Forecast indicates a need for approximately 680,000 new technicians worldwide over the next 20 years.

In Türkiye, the General Directorate of Civil Aviation (SHGM) and local aviation authorities expect a more than 35% increase in the demand for maintenance technicians in line with fleet growth. In Europe, EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency) emphasizes that the technician shortage will deepen over the next decade, particularly due to increased retirements.

In the face of this growing demand, traditional training systems seem inadequate in terms of speed and effectiveness. Classic training approaches that rely on fixed curricula, focus on theoretical knowledge transfer, and neglect practical skills, extend training durations and create inconsistencies in the performance of technicians entering the field. Moreover, these systems do not account for individual learning differences and changing industry needs. At this point, the Competency-Based Training and Assessment (CBTA) approach defined in ICAO Doc 10098 offers a paradigm shift in aviation training. CBTA focuses not only on acquiring knowledge but also on using that knowledge in the field at the right time and in the correct manner. This model offers an important solution for effectively, sustainably, and safety-oriented addressing the increasing demand for technicians.

This article will discuss the core principles of the CBTA approach, its impact on aircraft maintenance technician training, its implementation methods, and successful examples, as well as how this model can respond to future industry needs.

What is CBTA?

Competence, according to IATA, is “a dimension of human performance used to reliably predict successful performance.” It emerges and is observed through behaviors that activate relevant knowledge, skills, and attitudes required to carry out activities or tasks under specified conditions. Competency-Based Training and Assessment (CBTA) is a performance assessment tool that uses an individual’s education, knowledge, and experience to assess their ability to perform tasks. This system can also be used to define future training and development scenarios. It is a modern training and assessment model that focuses on not only ensuring individuals possess knowledge but also on their ability to use the knowledge and skills effectively in real work environments.



In CBTA, learning processes are structured around the learner’s performance in the field. This approach emphasizes behavioral and practical competence over theoretical knowledge. One element of CBTA is Evidence-Based Training (EBT). Given the nature of technical personnel’s work, this program allows them to assess their future needs in terms of maintaining and enhancing their skills and experience. The advantage of Evidence-Based Training in the technical sector is that candidates can provide evidence of their skills and abilities based on previous work and training, and there are ways to replicate specific scenarios for evaluation.

In traditional education systems, fixed curricula and knowledge tests dominate, while CBTA has a structure shaped by individual learning speeds, current competence levels, and operational needs. Training content is adapted to areas where individuals are lacking, and assessments are conducted through practical performance tests and observations rather than written exams.

The key differences between CBTA and traditional training are quite distinct. In the traditional system, learning is assumed to end once the training process is completed, while in CBTA, learning is seen as a continuous development cycle. CBTA considers individual differences, links performance to real field tasks, and supports development with continuous feedback mechanisms.

The advantages of this model include personalized learning, the acquisition of effective skills in a shorter time, the preparation of technicians who are ready for the field, and increased operational safety. Its disadvantages include the complexity of the transition process, the need to retrain trainer staff, and increased resource usage. However, in high safety-critical sectors such as aviation, these investments are more than justified by safe operations and a high-quality workforce.

Current Regulations Related to CBTA

CBTA has long been on the agenda of regulatory authorities, initially developed for flight crews, but specific frameworks for the technical sector have started to be introduced:

CAP 1715 – Competency Assessment Guidance Document: This document, developed in collaboration with the industry, was first published in 2018. It provides guidance on competency assessments for all aspects of the technical sector. It details a series of “non-technical” behavioral skills that complement the technical skills required for responsibilities within the scope of the candidate’s job description.

EASA AMC1 145.A.30 – Personnel Requirements: In 2022, EASA published the updated version of the Easy Access Rules for Continuing Airworthiness. This section defines the goals and requirements for organizations. It also includes proposed frameworks for the necessary knowledge elements for specific roles (GM2 145.A.30(e)). EASA clearly states that organizations are responsible for competency assessment. This document provides guidelines for the company’s role in the process. ICAO Doc 10098: The first edition of this manual was published in 2021. The guide provides recommendations for the implementation of CBTA specifically for aircraft maintenance personnel.


Transition Process to CBTA in Aircraft Maintenance Technician Training

For CBTA to be successfully implemented, the transition process must be carried out systematically and with careful planning. The first step is identifying training needs. In this stage, job descriptions, task analyses, and operational requirements are considered to clearly define the knowledge, skills, and behaviors that need to be developed. Following this, task and skill analyses are conducted. The technical knowledge, practical skills, and behavioral competencies required for each task are identified. Based on these analyses, the CBTA curriculum is created, and training programs are designed with a focus on individual development. The training process is supported by practical learning and real-life scenarios. Active learning methods such as simulations, role-playing exercises, and field applications are emphasized. In assessment processes, field performance, observable behaviors, and task performance are prioritized over theoretical knowledge tests. This process also requires the transformation of trainers. Trainers take on roles not just as knowledge transmitters but also as coaches, observers, and development guides. Continuous measurement and evaluation mechanisms make the learning process dynamic and open to development.



Impacts of CBTA on Aircraft Maintenance Technicians

The CBTA model focuses on developing technicians’ not only theoretical knowledge but also their practical skills and behavioral competencies. As a result, technicians not only apply maintenance procedures correctly but can also make effective decisions, communicate, and assess risks in changing operational conditions. Competencies such as situational awareness, stress management, effective communication, and teamwork are actively developed within the CBTA framework. This contributes to a reduction in error rates in maintenance processes, increased job safety, and improved overall operational efficiency.

CBTA also supports the personal development of technicians. Through individual competency maps, technicians can better identify their strengths and areas for improvement and make more informed career plans. This leads to the development of a workforce that is not only highly technically competent but also capable of leadership in the industry.

Successful Implementation Examples

ICAO’s CBTA pilot projects in the Asia and Africa regions have shown that training processes can be completed in a shorter time with higher success rates. Training efficiency has increased by up to 20%, and error rates in practical assessments have significantly decreased.

In Europe, Lufthansa Technik has reduced on-the-job adaptation time by an average of 1.5 months through CBTA practices, while increasing the zero-error first job completion rate of new technicians by 12%. In the U.S., Delta TechOps developed CBTA-based systems under the FAA’s AQP program and established task assignment systems based on individual competency scores, leading to significant improvements in maintenance safety.

These examples demonstrate that CBTA not only improves training quality but also directly impacts operational performance and safety standards.


Challenges and Solutions in Transitioning to CBTA

The transition to CBTA brings some challenges. Trainer staff must adapt to the CBTA philosophy and become proficient in observation and evaluation techniques. Additionally, competency and behavioral definitions must be clear and measurable. Ensuring consistency in assessment processes, adopting CBTA across the organization, and establishing digital support systems are also key components of the transition process. These challenges can be overcome with strong change management strategies, trainer development programs, and effective use of digital technologies.


Looking to the Future: CBTA and Continuous Development in Aircraft Maintenance Technician Training

In a world where digitalization and technological advancements are accelerating, CBTA is a model that can adapt to this transformation due to its flexible structure. Artificial intelligence-assisted training systems, individual development tracking platforms, and data-driven evaluation methods will further strengthen the impact of CBTA. The future profile of aircraft maintenance technicians will include not only technical knowledge but also the ability to adapt, think analytically, and actively contribute to safety culture. CBTA will continue to play a central role in training the next generation of professionals.

Competency-Based Training and Assessment (CBTA) provides a sustainable and effective solution to the human resource shortage facing the aviation industry. This model not only enhances individual performance but also strengthens the safety culture across the industry and supports operational excellence. Investment in CBTA is an investment in the company, its employees, and future planning.