Aviation training glossary

CBTA vs EBT: what is the difference?

CBTA is the method of assessing pilots against defined competencies; EBT is the method of using competency evidence to target recurrent training at real risk. They are complementary: EBT depends on CBTA-style assessment to generate the evidence it acts on.

Side by side

CBTAEBT
Full nameCompetency-based training and assessmentEvidence-based training
Primary focusAssessing pilots against competenciesPrioritising recurrent training by risk
Core questionHow competent is this pilot, and why?What should we train next, based on evidence?
ReferenceICAO competency frameworkICAO Doc 9995
RelationshipGenerates the evidenceActs on the evidence

How they work together

An operator uses CBTA to assess pilots consistently against the nine ICAO core competencies, producing structured, evidence-based grades. EBT then aggregates that evidence — alongside operational data — to decide which competencies to prioritise in the next recurrent cycle. Without CBTA's consistent assessment, EBT has no reliable evidence to act on.

Doing both in one system

Waypoint supports both approaches: it is CBTA software for consistent assessment and EBT software for turning that assessment into training decisions, in one training management system.

Frequently asked questions

Answers for training teams

Is EBT the same as CBTA?

No. CBTA (competency-based training and assessment) is how pilots are assessed against defined competencies. EBT (evidence-based training) is how an operator uses that competency evidence, plus operational data, to target recurrent training. EBT depends on CBTA-style assessment.

Do operators need both CBTA and EBT?

In practice, yes — they work together. CBTA provides consistent competency assessment, and EBT uses that evidence to prioritise recurrent training. Waypoint supports both in a single platform.

Put the theory into practice

See CBTA and EBT running in Waypoint, configured to your regulator. Book a 30-minute demo.