SFTE President Visits Brazilian Flight Test Organizations, Strengthening Global Collaboration

SFTE President Jeff Canclini’s recent visit to Brazil provided a valuable opportunity to engage with leading flight test organizations, expand SFTE’s international presence, and identify new pathways for collaboration. The visit began at the Brazilian Air Force’s IPEV Flight Test Center and its associated training school (EFEV) in São José dos Campos. There, Canclini met with senior military and civilian leadership, toured facilities and aircraft, and delivered a presentation to more than 70 flight test professionals and students. The strong turnout and engagement highlighted growing interest in SFTE membership. IPEV’s structured and cost-effective FTE training approach appears well aligned with SFTE Recommended Practices.
                              

A visit to Sirius Flight Test School further reinforced Brazil’s innovative training ecosystem. Sirius offers hybrid academic and practical programs, including a postgraduate Master’s degree in Engineering & Flight Test Operations and ANAC test pilot certification, leveraging simulators, VR, and a diverse aircraft fleet. The Sirius model demonstrates how high-quality training can delivered efficiently and at scale



The trip concluded with a two-day visit to Embraer’s Flight Test Center in Gavião Peixoto. Hosted by senior leadership, Canclini observed operations at one of the world’s most capable test environments, featuring a 15,000-foot runway and expansive airspace. Discussions focused on Embraer’s disciplined FTE development pipeline and opportunities for deeper engagement with SFTE, including hybrid participation in the International Symposium.
 

Embraer Flight Testers at Gavião Peixoto Test Center

Embraer and SPEV leadership in front of the Legacy 500 jet
 
Across all engagements, a clear theme emerged: Brazil’s flight test community is highly capable, collaborative, and eager to connect globally. The visit strengthened relationships and identified tangible opportunities to expand SFTE’s reach through virtual programs, training partnerships, and the adoption of Recommended Practices.

Canclini & Embraer Senior FTE Manager Jens Wentz