China – Loong Air, a China-based Airbus A320 family operator, has placed its first CAE-built Airbus A320 full-flight simulator (FFS) into service at its newly constructed pilot training facility in Hangzhou, marking a key milestone in the airline’s long-term training and capacity expansion strategy.

• The simulator has achieved ready-for-training (RFT) status and is the first device installed at Loong Air’s new training centre, establishing the foundation for a modern, in-house pilot training environment.

• CAE will deliver a total of three Airbus A320 full-flight simulators and three flight training devices (FTDs) to Loong Air, with two additional FFS units scheduled to enter service in 2026. Options for further simulator expansion are also included.

• The new A320 FFS is equipped with CAE’s Prodigy visual system, providing high-fidelity imagery and an immersive training environment to support advanced procedural, operational, and safety training.

• Loong Air currently operates a fleet of 74 Airbus A320 family aircraft and employs more than 800 pilots, with the expanded simulator capability supporting fleet growth, pilot onboarding, and recurrent training requirements.

Statements

• “We are thrilled to welcome Loong Air as a new customer to CAE. As they grow their fleet and pilot base, we look forward to supporting their vision with advanced training solutions that deliver immersive experiences and prepare their pilots for the moments that matter,” said Alexandre Prévost, President, Civil Aviation, CAE.

• “Partnering with CAE, a global leader in aviation training, is a significant step for Loong Air as we expand our capabilities,” said Liu Qihong, Chairman, Loong Air “The installation of our first CAE-built A320 full-flight simulator reflects our commitment to providing world-class training for our pilots,” he added.

• “From our first discussions at the Farnborough Airshow in 2024 to this week’s ceremony, it’s been inspiring to see our collaboration come to life. Loong Air’s first CAE A320 full-flight simulator ‒ certified today by the CAAC – Civil Aviation Administration of China ‒ has been delivered ahead of schedule, with two more simulators on the way. This milestone marks a new era in pilot training and operational excellence for the airline. As Loong Air expands, we’re excited to provide immersive, advanced training solutions to prepare their 800+ pilots for success. We’re honored to be their chosen partner and look forward to supporting their continued growth and innovation in aviation. A special thank you to Chairman Liu Qihong of Loong Air, the Loong Air team, the CAAC, and our phenomenal CAE team for making this achievement possible. Together, we’re driving the advancement of aviation in China and reinforcing our shared commitment to excellence.” shared Michel Azar-Hmouda, President, Commercial Aviation.

Source: CAE
Photo Credit: CAE