Sporty’s Unveils AI‑Powered Training Tools and 4K Video Upgrades for 2026 Pilot Course

USA – Sporty’s Pilot Shop has launched substantial 2026 updates to its Learn to Fly Course and FAR/AIM training resources, introducing AI‑powered tools, new video content, and expanded training tracks designed to modernise pilot education and support more efficient learning pathways.

  • ChatCFI: A new 24/7 virtual Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) assistant that gives students instant, accurate answers to course questions with direct links to in‑course learning materials, enhancing on‑demand study support.

  • ChatDPE: Sporty’s first Aviation Intelligence (AI) exam prep tool simulates a Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) oral exam, enabling interactive preparation that builds familiarity with checkride questioning and procedures.

  • ChatFAR: An AI‑driven tool that interprets Federal Aviation Regulations in plain English, helping students understand regulatory requirements — particularly valuable for private pilot training.

  • New 4K Video Content: The updated course content includes high‑resolution lessons covering key maneuvers such as steep turns, slow flight, and stalls, as well as enhanced segments on ForeFlight integration to support real‑world cockpit workflows.

  • Video Lesson Summaries: Each lesson now includes concise summaries of core concepts, ideal for pre‑lesson refreshers, test preparation review, and focused study bursts.

  • Flight Instructor Focus: A new series that places students in the cockpit with an actual CFI demonstrating maneuvers, common student errors, and corrective techniques to deepen procedural understanding.

  • Sport Pilot & MOSAIC‑Ready Training: The 2026 course introduces a Sport Pilot training track updated for MOSAIC regulations, which broaden Sport Pilot privileges to more capable aircraft, giving students access to enhanced training pathways.

About Sporty’s Pilot Shop
Sporty’s Pilot Shop is a U.S.‑based flight training resource provider known for its comprehensive Learn to Fly Course, aviation training materials, and pilot supplies. Sporty’s integrates modern technologies and instructional design to support student pilots from initial training through advanced certification.

Source: Sporty’s
Photo Credit: Sporty’s

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Flight Simulator Manufacturer True Course Simulation Installs DA40 VR Simulator at UNSW Aviation in Sydney

Australia – flight simulator manufacturer and pilot training solution provider True Course Simulations has successfully installed its Diamond DA40 VR Immersive Flight Simulator at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) School of Aviation in Sydney, strengthening UNSW’s flight training capabilities through enhanced access to standardised, aircraft-specific simulator training.

  • The DA40-specific VR simulator replicates the aircraft’s G1000 glass cockpit and integrates True Course Simulations’ Virtual Instructor Courseware, offering over 70 interactive lessons with automated grading and real-time feedback.

  • The installation supports UNSW Aviation’s recent expansion of its DA40 XLT fleet, with six new aircraft added to operations at Bankstown Airport, ensuring seamless transitions between simulator and aircraft-based training.

  • The simulator allows students to efficiently practice procedures such as traffic patterns, stalls, and emergency scenarios, even during adverse weather or aircraft downtime.

  • Instructors benefit from scenario control, standardised delivery, and the ability to shift sessions to the simulator lab without impacting training continuity.

  • The solution enhances resource allocation by reducing aircraft usage for early-stage procedures, enabling more focused use of flight hours for advanced skills and checks.

About True Course Simulations
True Course Simulations, based in Arizona, USA, develops immersive VR flight simulators and virtual instructor courseware tailored for common training aircraft types, including the Diamond DA40 and Cessna 172. The company focuses on providing realistic, repeatable training environments that improve pilot skill acquisition while conserving aircraft resources.

About UNSW School of Aviation
The University of New South Wales (UNSW) School of Aviation, located in Sydney, Australia, is one of the country’s leading university-based pilot training institutions. Its Flying Operations Unit is based at Bankstown Airport, offering professional pilot training supported by a growing fleet of Diamond aircraft and modern simulation tools.

Source: True Course Simulations
Photo Credit: True Course Simulations

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US Flight School, Phoenix East Aviation, Welcomes New International Student Pilots in January 2026

Florida, United States – based flight training group Phoenix East Aviation (PEA) has welcomed a number of new international students in January 2026. The latest intake includes students from South Korea, India, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Uganda and Israel.

Daytona Beach, Florida, United States based Phoenix East Aviation (PEA) has been providing flight training for over 50 years. Its main campus is located at Daytona Beach International Airport, a Satellite facility in Ft Lauderdale where they are the flight training provider for Broward College, and an Auxiliary training facility in Flagler Beach that specializes in accelerated training. PEA is equipped with over 70 aircraft.

Source: Phoenix East Aviation
Photo Credit: Phoenix East Aviation

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US Flight Training Group, ATP Flight School, Expands Nationwide Training Network with 2 New Locations Set to Open in 2026

USA – ATP Flight School, the largest flight training provider in the United States, has announced further expansion of its national training network with new training centres set to open at:

  • Boise Airport (BOI) in Idaho
  • Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO) in North Carolina

ATP Flight School has grown its fleet to 658 aircraft including 102 multi-engine aircraft, as of January 2026.

AFM previously reported on its performance for 2025:

  • 295,576 flights
  • 573,508 hours flown by students and instructors
  • 13,623 check rides passed
  • 2,262 graduates
  • 3,579 ATP CTPs completed
  • 98 airline visits
  • 905 airline placements (with SkyWest Airlines being the regional airline with the most placements and American Airlines the legacy airline with the most placements)
  • 54 new aircraft added to the fleet
  • Over USD 280,000 ATP alumni association investment in Career Advancement and Free Training Programs
  • Notable airline partnership developments: American Airlines Cadet Academy Program launch and leader in Delta Propel CFI Pathway Acceptees
  • 117 current United Aviate participants

Source: ATP Flight School
Photo Credit: ATP Flight School

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CAE Delivers First eVTOL Simulator Developed for Joby Aviation’s S4

USA – CAE has delivered its first electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) full flight simulator, developed in partnership with Joby Aviation, for the pioneering S4 aircraft. The simulator marks a milestone in the development of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) training infrastructure and underscores CAE’s role in shaping the next generation of pilot training solutions.

  • The simulator was developed specifically for Joby Aviation’s S4 eVTOL aircraft, supporting the operational and certification path of Joby’s planned air taxi service.

  • This is CAE’s first delivery of an eVTOL-specific training device, reinforcing its growing footprint in the AAM sector following its strategic entry into eVTOL training in 2021.

  • The simulator features an immersive, wide field of view and is tailored to meet the unique handling characteristics and mission profiles of electric air taxis.

  • CAE and Joby have collaborated on pilot training development for the S4, aligning with FAA certification requirements and commercial readiness goals.

  • The device supports standardised training programmes and operational readiness for Joby’s upcoming commercial launch, anticipated to begin as early as 2026.

Source: CAE
Photo Credit: CAE

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