New Helicopter Training Centre Breaks Ground in 2025 – Planned Delivery of Reiser H135/145 FFS in 2027

Netherlands – European Heli Center (EHC) has begun construction on a state-of-the-art helicopter training centre at Lelystad Airport, set to become its new headquarters. The facility will house a REISER H135/H145 Level D full-flight simulator and is designed to support advanced multi-mission helicopter training across a broad spectrum of civil and government operators.

  • The new centre, announced at VERTICON 2025 and now under construction, will feature a REISER-built Level D full-flight simulator for roll-on/roll-off Airbus H135/H145 platforms, scheduled for operation by Q1 2027.
  • EHC’s upcoming headquarters will offer multi-mission training, catering to emergency medical services (EMS), offshore transport, law enforcement, military, and commercial flight operations.
  • EHC currently operates a fleet of 21 helicopters across its existing training centres in the Netherlands and Norway.

Statements

  • “We are proud to see this project advancing exactly as planned. The start of construction brings us one step closer to delivering a modern and efficient training capability for operators worldwide.” – Dr. Johannes Hain, CEO, Reiser Simulation and Training
  • “Together with REISER, we are creating a facility that will define the future of helicopter training in Europe.” – Jeroen Peddemors, CEO, European Heli Center

Source: European Heli Center

Related Posts

Indian Flight Training Group Chimes Aviation Academy Welcomes ICP Batch 09 with Over 30 Cadets in November 2025

IndiaChimes Aviation Academy (CAA), which operates multiple flight training bases in India, marked the induction of its Indigo Cadet Pilot (ICP) Program Batch 09. Welcoming 38 new cadets as part of its integrated commercial pilot training program. The event included an introductory session focused on shaping future aviators with professionalism and personal discipline. The induction programme featured a session led by Group HR Head Shilpika Raheja, emphasizing the importance of personality development and etiquette in aviation careers.

The CAA IndiGo Cadet Pilot Program was launched in 2019 and has since produced hundreds of cockpit-ready pilots through a blend of rigorous training, disciplined mentorship, and operational alignment with airline standards.

Source: Chimes Aviation Academy
Photo Credit: Chimes Aviation Academy

Related Posts

Simaero and OpenAirlines Partner to Equip Airlines with Training to Operations Solutions for Sustainable Aviation

France – Simaero, a global operator of full flight simulator training centers, has entered into a strategic partnership with French clean-tech specialist OpenAirlines to embed fuel efficiency and eco-flying analytics into simulator-based pilot training. The collaboration aims to support airlines in achieving both operational and environmental performance goals.

  • The partnership integrates OpenAirlines’ SkyBreathe® fuel optimisation technology directly into Simaero’s simulator training curriculum.
  • Pilot trainees will now be equipped with data-driven insights into fuel efficiency from the outset of their training, aligning with evolving regulatory and cost-efficiency demands.
  • The joint initiative began in October 2025, with global implementation planned across Simaero’s training centres in France, South Africa, China, and India.
  • The solution aims to bridge the gap between pilot training and airline operations, enabling airlines to scale sustainability practices and instil eco-efficient behaviours early in pilot development.
  • The collaboration positions sustainability and operational performance as core training pillars, which is critical as airlines worldwide increase focus on emissions reduction.

Statements

  • “We envision an aviation future where operational excellence and environmental stewardship are seamlessly integrated outcomes. Airlines partnering with us don’t just receive trained pilots, they gain champions who contribute to both immediate profitability and long-term environmental goals. This collaboration represents the aviation industry’s evolution toward intelligent, data-driven operations where every flight optimizes both performance and planet impact, ensuring airlines thrive in an increasingly sustainability-focused marketplace.” – Nicolas Mouté, CEO, Simaero
  • “This partnership reflects our commitment to sharing our knowledge as widely as possible. By working with Simaero, we are combining two complementary strengths: their excellence in training and our expertise in fuel efficiency. Together, we aim to accelerate the shift towards a more responsible and efficient aviation industry.” – Alexandre Feray, CEO, OpenAirlines

Source: Simaero
Photo Credit: Simaero

Related Posts

FlyIAA Global Expands into Europe Through Share-Exchange Agreement with CAFA

United Arab Emirates & Cyprus – Intercontinental Aviation Enterprise (IAE) and MA Group have signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding at the 2025 Dubai Airshow, establishing a board-level partnership through a mutual share-exchange between Intercontinental Aviation Academy (FlyIAA Global) and CAFA – Cyprus Airways Flying Academy. The agreement positions CAFA as a new European base within the FlyIAA Global training network and marks a significant expansion of IAE’s international footprint.

  • The collaboration grants FlyIAA Global an operational presence in Europe while integrating CAFA into a wider global training structure spanning the Middle East, Europe, and Asia.

  • A Joint Integration Board will oversee the partnership, guiding brand alignment, fleet-modernisation plans, new training-programme development, and the establishment of additional satellite training bases.

  • The alliance aims to strengthen CAFA’s position within the European training market and support FlyIAA Global’s long-term vision for scalable, multi-continent aviation-training operations.

Statements

  • “This is more than a partnership; it is a milestone that reshapes our global footprint. Cyprus will become one of the most important hubs in our network, powered by a new fleet, new programs, and a strategic vision aligned with FlyIAA Global’s future.” Wissam Mehyou, CEO, Intercontinental Aviation Enterprise.

  • “By joining forces with IAE and FlyIAA Global, CAFA takes a decisive step toward becoming a leading European aviation academy. This partnership brings new strength, clear direction, and a global horizon.” Mikhael Alenkin, Owner, MA Group.

Source: Intercontinental Aviation Academy

Related Posts

Kore Aviation Partners with Professional Pilots of Tomorrow to Support Aspiring Aviators with KA-1 Headset

USA — Kore Aviation has formed a new partnership with Professional Pilots of Tomorrow (PPOT), a nationwide mentorship organisation supporting more than 2,800 aspiring and early-career pilots across the U.S. The collaboration will provide student pilots within the PPOT community access to Kore Aviation KA-1 headsets through scholarship donations and exclusive discounts.

  • As part of the partnership, Kore Aviation will donate two KA-1 headsets to PPOT’s Fall Scholarship programme, expanding access to essential cockpit-communication equipment for developing pilots.

  • PPOT connects student pilots with experienced aviation professionals for free, confidential one-on-one mentorship covering training choices, certification pathways, career planning, and airline-readiness guidance.

  • Kore Aviation’s involvement supports PPOT’s mission to ensure that future professional pilots receive informed, supportive guidance during early career stages.

  • The KA-1 headset—known for durability, comfort, and clear audio—is positioned to help student pilots maintain consistent communication quality during training flights.

Statements

  • “Their support of our Fall Scholarship and our student pilot members directly aligns with our mission to create a stronger, more connected aviation community.” Joseph Schmidt, President, Professional Pilots of Tomorrow.

  • “PPOT has created an honest, impactful mentorship network, and we’re proud to support that work through gear and resources that help future aviators succeed.” Min Kim, President, Kore Aviation.

Source: Kore Aviation
Photo Credit: Kore Aviation

Related Posts

US Flight School Expands Tecnam Fleet to 32 Aircraft Across U.S. Training Network

Arizona, USA – Universal Flight Concepts, a fixed-wing and rotorcraft flight training provider, has expanded its training fleet to 32 Tecnam aircraft.

  • Universal Flight Concepts (UFC) has added four more Tecnam aircraft, including P2008 LSA and P2010 models, bringing its total Tecnam fleet to 32.

  • UFC aims to grow its Tecnam fleet by an additional 24 aircraft over the next two years.

  • The organization operates multiple FAA Part 141 locations across the U.S., including in Texas, Arizona, California, and Utah.

  • Its Provo, Utah facility also functions as an FAA Part 145 Repair Station and houses UHI’s Robinson Helicopter Dealership.

  • Universal Helicopters (UHI), UFC’s sister company, is the only Bell-approved Certified Training Facility (CTF) for the BH206 and Bell 505, and the sole Bell-approved Dealer/Re-seller of the Bell 505.

Statements

  • “Quality, Safety and Timely performance by a manufacturer is number one on our priority list and TECNAM meets all of them each and every day!” – Dr. Gordon A. Jiroux, hc, President & CEO, Universal Flight Concepts.

  • “We are honored by the continued trust placed in Tecnam by Universal Flight Concepts. Our shared dedication to safety, quality, and innovation makes this partnership a perfect fit. UFC’s expansion with Tecnam aircraft is a testament to their unwavering commitment to excellence in pilot training.” – Walter Da Costa, Chief Sales Officer, Tecnam.

About Universal Flight Concepts
Universal Flight Concepts and its sister company, Universal Helicopters, are veteran training providers specializing in fixed-wing and rotorcraft instruction. With operations across the U.S., UFC/UHI offer comprehensive ab-initio, recurrent, and specialized training to students, manufacturers, and government agencies.

Source: Tecnam Aircraft
Photo Credit: Tecnam Aircraft

Related Posts

Resilient Pilot Partners with the University of Westminster to Deliver ATPL(A) Programme

United Kingdom – Resilient Pilot, the fast-growing UK ATO, has partnered with the University of Westminster to deliver its innovative ATPL(A) Theory/KSA100 programme. Available as a 12-month short course within the University’s professional Short Courses portfolio, the programme is delivered by operational airline pilots and is designed to provide aspiring airline pilots with a comprehensive, industry-focused pathway into the flight deck.

Complementing the University of Westminster’s range of air transport-related courses, Resilient Pilot’s ATPL(A) programme embeds knowledge, skills, and attitudes (KSAs) from day one, helping to prepare students for the realities of airline operations.

Programme highlights include:

  • UK CAA-approved syllabus delivered by Resilient Pilot instructors
  • Three modules covering 14 subject areas, supported by 15 days of intensive face-to-face “brush-up” sessions
  • Virtual scenario-based training to consolidate theoretical training, simulating real life operational challenges on the flight deck.
  • Dedicated mentoring from current airline pilots and coaching from professional performance coaches
  • One-to-one theoretical instruction from Theoretical Knowledge Instructors
  • Course materials from PadPilot, an industry-leading distance learning provider
  • Access to the best question bank available through partners at ATPL Questions
  • Exclusive access to Resilience Deck – the industry’s first human factors and competency development copilot app, designed by pilots and aviation coaches

The ATPL(A) programme is delivered via a combination of distance learning and face-to-face training, which will utilise the facilities of the University of Westminster’s Marylebone Campus in Central London.

Commenting, Founder and CEO of Resilient Pilot, Stuart Beech said: “The University of Westminster is recognised for academic excellence, particularly in aviation and air transport, so we are delighted to partner with them to deliver our ATPL(A) programme. The course has been designed to get students thinking and behaving like operational airline pilots, and, unlike similar courses, embeds KSAs from day one to ensure students develop effective observable behaviours from the start of their flying career. We look forward to working in partnership with the University of Westminster on this exciting initiative.”

Dr Frances Kremarik, University of Westminster Course Leader for the Resilient Pilot ATPL(A) Theory/KSA100 programme and Joint-Course Leader for the Air Transport Planning and Management MSc course, said: “Resilient Pilot is leading the way with their ATPL(A) course. The programme provides an excellent foundation for future pilots with its integration of knowledge, skills and abilities. This is a great start for anybody on their career path as an airline pilot. The University of Westminster has a long history of air transport education, and we are excited to collaborate with Resilient Pilot in delivering this innovative course.”

Luisa Guerra, Senior Manager – Short Courses, at the University of Westminster, added:

“This partnership exemplifies our commitment to delivering high-quality, industry-aligned short courses that support professional development and employability. By working with Resilient Pilot, we’re able to offer aspiring pilots access to a unique, practice-based learning experience led by experts actively working in the field.”

About Resilient Pilot
Resilient Pilot is a UK CAA-approved training organisation (ATO) specialising in innovative pilot training programmes. Led by operational airline pilots and aviation professionals, Resilient Pilot delivers mentoring, theory training, and competency-based tools to prepare students for successful aviation careers. Resilient Pilot has created the world’s first app for human factors and pilot competency development, Resilience Deck, which helps IEs and pilots continuously develop the skills and behaviours required on the flightdeck.

Source: Resilient Pilot
Photo Credit: Resilient Pilot

Related Posts