UPS Global Aviation Training Center

Louisville, KY — 🇺🇸 United States

Available Simulators 3

AircraftLevelQty
747-400 Level D 1
767 Level D 1
MD-10/MD-11 Level D 1

Regulatory Approvals

FAA — Federal Aviation Administration

About This Training Center

The UPS Global Aviation Training Center (GATC) in Louisville, Kentucky serves as the primary pilot training facility for UPS Airlines' extensive cargo fleet. Located at the heart of UPS's global air hub at Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport, the facility provides comprehensive training for the airline's Boeing 747-400, 767, and McDonnell Douglas MD-10/MD-11 aircraft.

The training center features three Level D full flight simulators representing each aircraft type in UPS's fleet. These simulators provide the highest level of training fidelity available, incorporating full motion systems, visual displays, and realistic aircraft systems modeling. The facility specializes in cargo-specific training scenarios, including heavy weight operations, international procedures, and the unique operational requirements of freight flying.

GATC offers initial type rating training for pilots joining UPS or transitioning between aircraft types, recurrent training programs to maintain currency and proficiency, and Pilot Proficiency Checks required by regulatory authorities. The center's proximity to UPS's primary sorting facility and air hub allows for integrated training that combines simulator instruction with real-world operational exposure to the company's cargo operations.

Getting Here

The nearest major airport is Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF). Pilots travelling for training can fly into this airport for convenient access to the training facility.

About UPS Airlines

UPS Airlines, one of the world's largest cargo carriers, operates comprehensive flight training facilities through its Global Aviation Training Center (GATC) in Louisville, Kentucky. As a major global logistics company, UPS maintains rigorous pilot training standards to support its extensive worldwide cargo operations.

The airline's training program centers around its primary aircraft fleet consisting of Boeing 747-400, Boeing 767, and McDonnell Douglas MD-10/MD-11 freighter aircraft. UPS operates Level D full flight simulators for each of these aircraft types, providing pilots with the highest fidelity training experience available in the industry.

UPS's training programs include initial type rating courses for pilots transitioning to new aircraft types, recurrent training to maintain proficiency and regulatory compliance, and Pilot Proficiency Checks (PPC) required by aviation authorities. The training curriculum is specifically designed around cargo operations, incorporating the unique challenges and procedures associated with freight flying, including weight and balance considerations, hazardous materials handling, and international cargo operations.

The Global Aviation Training Center serves UPS's pilot workforce while maintaining the high safety standards required for the company's global cargo network, which operates to hundreds of destinations worldwide.

HQ: Atlanta, GA