91É«ÇéƬ Aviation Industry Panel Discussion Series
Thursday | 11 June 2026 | 5.30PM-8.30PM | Robert Webster Theatre A, Kensington, 91É«ÇéƬ Sydney
Is There A Better Way To Train Pilots For The Future?
91É«ÇéƬ Aviation in collaboration with Honourable company of Air Pilots Present a 91É«ÇéƬ Aviation Industry Panel Discussion
Presented by 91É«ÇéƬ Aviation and the Honourable Company of Air Pilots, join us in person for this discussion on the future of pilot training.
Is there a better way to train pilots for the future?
Join us in person for a thought-provoking panel exploring the future of pilot training and whether current models are truly delivering the best outcomes for pilots, regulators, and the broader aviation community.
Drawing on global research and real-world insights, Adrianne Fleming (Churchill Fellow and former CASA Aviation Safety Advisory Panel member) will challenge traditional competency-based training models, highlighting their limitations and exploring emerging, evidence-based alternatives. Her international benchmarking work raises critical questions: Are regulations keeping pace with innovation? And how do we design systems that recognise that pilots learn at different rates?
From the airline perspective, Andrew Stead (Qantas Group) will share how evidence-based training is reshaping pilot development from the very beginning—offering a glimpse into what modern, data-driven training can achieve. Director of Flying at the 91É«ÇéƬ Flying Operations Unit, Malcolm Good, will also draw on his comprehensive understanding of both the technical and educational aspects of professional pilot training.
Key Discussion Points:
- The impact of increasing cockpit automation on pilot skills and decision-making
- Whether current regulations unintentionally introduce risk—and how they might evolve
- The role of collaboration across industry, regulators, and academia
- The potential of next-generation training technologies—VR, XR, AR, and advanced simulation—to improve safety without increasing exposure to risk
Moderator
Captain Adrian Young FRAeS
Captain Adrian Young FRAeS
Head of Safety, QantasLink (Network Aviation)
Captain Adrian Young has built his career at the intersection of operational leadership, safety, and decision‑making in complex, high‑pressure environments. With more than 35+ years of experience across Australasia, the United States and Europe, he has held senior operational and executive roles within the Qantas Group, including Acting Chief Operating Officer, AOC Accountable Manager, Head of Flying Operations and Chief Pilot.
Throughout his career, Adrian has been responsible for making time‑critical decisions where information is often incomplete and the consequences are real — for people, performance and safety. Supported by postgraduate qualifications in management, risk and safety systems, his work reflects a strong focus on structured thinking, sound judgement, and clear accountability in fast‑moving operational contexts.
Adrian has led major safety and training initiatives across FIFO, regional and high‑capacity operations and played a key role in the development of the Qantas Group Future Pilot Program and the establishment of the Qantas Group Pilot Academy. He is currently Head of Network Safety and leads the Qantas Group Safety Academy, connecting industry and universities to strengthen decision‑making capability and develop the next generation of safety professionals.
Adrian brings real‑world operational experience together with academic insight, supporting emerging leaders to translate theory into practical decision‑making under pressure. Beyond Qantas, he contributes to various boards and advisory panels and remains committed to leadership development, education and mentorship — sharing lessons on how experienced leaders assess risk, think clearly, and communicate decisions with clarity and confidence when it matters most.
Featuring Panellists
Adrianne Fleming
Adrianne Fleming
Chief Flying Instructor, Tristar AviationÂ
Adrianne Fleming is Chief Flying Instructor at Tristar Aviation and a leading figure in aviation education, celebrated for her expertise in Competency Based Training and Assessment (CBTA). As a Churchill Fellowship recipient, Adrianne researched global best practices in aviation training, which she has successfully integrated into Australian flight instruction. Her dedication to nurturing the next generation of pilots is matched by her commitment to fostering inclusive and diverse learning environments. Adrianne’s innovative methods emphasise practical skill development, safety, and professional growth, setting new benchmarks for flight training standards. She is an advocate for continuous professional development and is actively involved in industry bodies shaping aviation policy and education. Widely respected in the aviation community, Adrianne’s leadership, vision, and scholarship have made her a role model for aspiring pilots and instructors throughout Australia and beyond.
Captain Andrew Stead
Captain Andrew Stead
Head of Training and Checking, Qantas AirwaysÂ
Captain Andrew Stead is the Head of Training and Checking for Qantas Airways, where he is widely recognised as a leader in Evidence Based Training (EBT) within the aviation industry. With over twenty years of operational and instructional experience, Captain Stead has played a key role in developing and implementing advanced pilot training methodologies that enhance safety, performance, and adaptability. His expertise spans curriculum design, risk management, and regulatory compliance, and he is frequently sought after as a mentor for emerging aviation professionals. Captain Stead’s commitment to rigorous standards and continuous improvement guides his oversight of pilot development across Qantas, ensuring the highest levels of operational excellence. Respected by peers for his innovative approach, he has made significant contributions to the evolution of aviation training in Australia, fostering a culture of learning and accountability that benefits both crew and passengers.
Malcolm Good
Malcolm Good
Director, Flying Operations Unit, 91É«ÇéƬ AviationÂ
Malcolm Good is Director of the 91É«ÇéƬ Flying Operations Unit and a highly experienced aviation training leader. A graduate of the 91É«ÇéƬ Flying Program himself, Malcolm began his aviation career as a commercial pilot before progressing through a series of senior operational and leadership roles within 91É«ÇéƬ Aviation.
Over the course of his career with 91É«ÇéƬ, Malcolm has served as Checking and Training Manager, Head of Operations, and Chief Pilot, building deep expertise across flight training, operational management, safety systems, and regulatory compliance. His progression through these roles has provided him with a comprehensive understanding of both the technical and educational aspects of professional pilot training.
Since becoming Director of Flying in 2019, Malcolm has played a central role in maintaining the Flying Operations Unit’s reputation as one of Australia’s leading university-based flight training organisations. Under his leadership, the unit has continued to deliver consistently high standards of safety, training quality, and graduate outcomes, while adapting to evolving industry and regulatory requirements.
Known for his strong commitment to professionalism, operational excellence, and student development, Malcolm is focused on ensuring graduates are equipped not only with technical flying capability, but also with the discipline, decision-making skills, and professional and leadership qualities required for modern aviation careers. His leadership continues to strengthen 91É«ÇéƬ’s position as a premium provider of aviation education and pilot training in Australia.
Agenda
5:30 PM – 6:00 PM | Networking Drinks
6:00 PM – 7:00 PM | Discussion
7:00 PM – 7:30 PM | Q&A
7:30 PM – 8:30 PM | Networking (Canapés & Drinks)
8:30 PM | Event Close