Beijing: Premier Peter Beattie today congratulated Queensland training certifier IATCA Corporation for signing an agreement with the Civil Aviation Management Institute of China to deliver an aviation English communications skills course to Chinese air traffic controllers.

"This is further proof that our Smart State strategy to create an Asia-Pacific aviation hub in Queensland is flying high,' Mr Beattie said.

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Premier & Trade, Peter Beattie
prem...@cabinet.qld.gov.au
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18/07/04

"IATCA is typical of the types of proactive, first-class aviation trainers we have in Queensland where we now have a critical mass of aviation and aerospace companies.

"Major aviation and aerospace players like Boeing Australia, EADS Australian Aerospace, Qantas 767 maintenance and Virgin Blue, all call Queensland home.

"We have also developed a centre of excellence in maintenance and engineering training in Queensland with organisations such as Aviation Australia at Australia TradeCoast and the Singapore Flying Training Centre at Sunshine Coast Airport.

"IATCA's agreement with the Civil Aviation Management Institute of China follows the International Civil Aviation Organisation's stipulation in 2003 that English is the mandatory international language for aviation.

"IATCA met the Civil Aviation Management Institute of China to discuss aviation English communications skills courses as well as air traffic control training.

"The Institute begins a five-week trial of IATCA's aviation English communications skills course in August.

"This type of training has the potential to generate a significant amount of export revenue for Queensland as do the company's plans to train air traffic controllers"

IATCA proposes to build an international air traffic control training academy for overseas students at Sunshine Coast Airport, Maroochydore, and is in advanced discussions with the Civil Aviation Management Institute of China on this as well.

IATCA plans to begin air traffic controller training in 2005.

The Premier is leading a 10-day trade and investment mission aimed at strengthening Queensland's market ties and creating new business opportunities in China, Hong Kong and Thailand.

Media contact:
Steve Keating 0408 720 081