Market Intelligence: Europe

Training Aircraft Manufacturer Elixir Aircraft to Showcase Next-Gen Trainer at Pilot Careers Live Frankfurt in September 2025

Germany – Elixir Aircraft, the French manufacturer behind the 4th-generation training aircraft, has announced its participation in Pilot Careers Live (PCL) Frankfurt on 20 September 2025.

  • At the event, Elixir Aircraft will present its flagship two-seat trainer—the Elixir—designed with an emphasis on safety, efficiency, and versatility for modern pilot training.

  • The aircraft features OneShot technology, a proprietary carbon-fiber construction method that simplifies maintenance, reduces aircraft weight, and enhances structural integrity.

  • Visitors to the Elixir stand will learn why numerous European flight schools are transitioning their fleets to the Elixir, citing operational cost savings, modern design, and EASA CS-23 certification.

Source: Elixir Aircraft

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Skyborne Airline Academy in UK Hosts Young Aviation Enthusiasts with Charity Organization fly2help

Gloucester, United Kingdom – Skyborne Airline Academy UK recently hosted participants of fly2help’s Aim High Day at Gloucestershire Airport, supporting an initiative designed to inspire young people to pursue aviation careers.

  • 15 young aviation enthusiasts joined the Aim High Day, enjoying a behind-the-scenes airport tour led by The Airport Guy before visiting Skyborne’s training facilities.

  • Skyborne provided the group with insight into professional pilot training pathways and offered the opportunity to experience its Boeing 737 MAX simulator.

  • The Aim High programme, run by UK charity fly2help, introduces young people to the diverse career opportunities available across the aviation sector.

  • Skyborne’s involvement reflects its broader commitment to community engagement and encouraging the next generation of pilots into training.

Source: Skyborne Airline Academy

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Training Aircraft Manufacturer Bristell by BRM AERO Secures EU-backed Grant for Electric-Energic Project

Czech Republic – BRM AERO has taken a significant step toward sustainable aviation with the successful grant approval for the BRISTELL ENERGIC – sustainable flying project (Reg. Nr. CZ.01.01.01/02/24_051/0004933), aimed at introducing production of the Bristell ENERGIC, an all-electric aircraft developed in cooperation with Swiss electric propulsion specialist H55. The initiative is co-financed by the European Union and marks a key milestone in Bristell’s pursuit of a greener future for pilot training.

Learn more about H55 here in this AFM interview.

Source: BRM AERO

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AELO Swiss Academy Expands Fleet and Campus Amid Rapid Growth in 2025

Locarno, Switzerland – AELO Swiss Academy, Europe’s High-Performance Aviation Academy, announced a major expansion of its training fleet and facilities, reinforcing its position as one of Europe’s fastest-growing and highest-performing pilot training schools. The academy has purchased nine new aircraft, including four Diamond DA40s and five brand-new Tecnam P2008s, all scheduled for delivery in the final quarter of 2025. This expansion will bring AELO’s total fleet to 27 aircraft, supporting increased student enrollment while maintaining the academy’s high standards of pilot training excellence.

This expansion comes on the back of a period of exceptional growth for AELO. Since early 2024, year-on-year sales have surged, following a 100% increase in 2024 and an expected 50% rise in 2025, despite annual tuition fee adjustments of around 5% for the ATPL Integrated program. Graduate outcomes remain outstanding, with more than 96% of recent students securing airline positions within six months at leading carriers such as Swiss, SkyAlps, Wizz Air, Ryanair, and EasyJet. Most recently, three AELO graduates have been recruited by KLM and four by Transavia, further underscoring the academy’s reputation as a direct pathway to Europe’s top airlines.

In parallel with the fleet expansion, AELO has invested €6 million in new state-of-the-art facilities, to be inaugurated in October 2025. The upgraded infrastructure features cutting-edge flight simulators, advanced learning spaces, and modern amenities to enhance the integrated pilot training experience.

AELO is also developing a brand-new campus, located just two miles from Locarno Airport, which will feature 48 student rooms, two large classrooms, a cafeteria, and a gym, scheduled for delivery in November 2025. This new campus will provide an immersive, fully equipped environment for students to live, study, and train under optimal conditions.

“Our focus has been to build a powerful brand that reflects the Swiss Seal of Excellence,” said Stefano Buratti, Accountable Manager of AELO Swiss Academy. “We aim to position AELO as a premium product in the international market, attracting discerning students worldwide. Every aspect of our academy, from fleet and facilities to curriculum and instructor quality, is meticulously designed to create a learning environment that delivers excellence and prepares pilots for the demands of a global industry.”

“Excellence is at the heart of everything we do at AELO,” added Stefano. “These investments in our fleet, new campus, and facilities ensure that we remain at the forefront of aviation training in Europe, equipping our students with the skills, confidence, and professionalism required to succeed in the cockpit of tomorrow’s airlines.”

Founded in 1985, AELO Swiss Academy continues to set the benchmark for high-performance pilot training, combining rigorous flight education, personalized instruction, and a multicultural student community to deliver a truly world-class experience.

Source: AELO

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Loft Dynamics Secures USD 24 Million Series B Funding to Transform Airline Pilot Training with Virtual Reality Solutions

Switzerland & USA – Loft Dynamics, the global leader in virtual reality (VR) flight training, has raised a $24 million (USD) Series B funding round led by The Friedkin Group, with participation from Alaska Airlines and existing shareholders Sky Dayton and Craft Ventures, as well as UP.Partners. The round brings Loft Dynamics’ total funding to $48 million (USD) and marks a major step forward in expanding its commercial airline offerings while continuing to grow its core helicopter business.

Loft Dynamics developed the world’s only FAA- and EASA-qualified VR helicopter simulator, used by operators such as Airbus Helicopters, the Los Angeles Police Department, and Air Greenland. With this latest investment, the company is applying its cutting-edge technology and regulatory credibility to transform airline pilot training at scale.

“Pilot training hasn’t kept pace with the rest of aviation,” said Fabi Riesen, founder and CEO of Loft Dynamics. “We’re still sending trainees across the country to sit in $10-$20 million, warehouse-sized domes—technology that hasn’t evolved in decades. In an era of pilot shortages and increasing air mobility, that’s simply no longer sustainable. We’re building a new standard—one that’s far more realistic and accessible. High-quality, regular training leads to better pilots. And better pilots mean safer skies.”

Loft Dynamics’ immediate focus is developing a next-generation, cloud-connected training suite—the world’s first fully integrated hardware and software system built to make pilot training safer, more effective, immersive and scalable.

Initial offerings will include existing helicopter simulators and new full-motion Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 VR airliner simulators—up to 12 times smaller and a fraction of the cost of traditional full-flight simulators. Loft’s new airliner simulators will include a multi-crew replica cockpit with all aircraft haptics, body and eye tracking, and AI-powered training intelligence to measure pilot performance and deliver tailored feedback. It will also feature LofTWIN—a virtual demonstration mode that lets instructors record immersive lessons for pilots to replay at any time. These systems will enable pilots to train safely and regularly for any condition, including rare, high-risk scenarios and past aviation tragedies.

To further increase training accessibility, Loft Dynamics is also developing a spatial computing–powered home training kit, allowing pilots to review sessions, access immersive content, and train remotely—from the base or their living room.

As part of the investment, Dan Friedkin, chairman and CEO of The Friedkin Group, will join Loft Dynamics’ board of directors, partnering closely with Series A investors Sky Dayton (partner at Craft Ventures, founder of Boingo Wireless, EarthLink, and CloudKitchens) and Ben Marcus (co-founder and managing partner at UP.Partners), both of whom also serve on the board. An accomplished pilot and entrepreneur, Friedkin leads a global portfolio of businesses across aviation, automotive, hospitality, sports, investments and entertainment.

“Loft Dynamics is defining the next era of aviation training,” said Friedkin. “This investment enables them to scale their solution globally, fast-track innovation, meet an urgent industry need and elevate pilot safety in the process. Loft brings the vision and execution capability this moment demands.”

“Through Alaska Star Ventures, our corporate venture capital arm, we are excited to support Loft Dynamics in bringing FAA-qualified VR technology to commercial airline training,” said Pasha Saleh, corporate development director, Alaska Airlines, “We look forward to working closely with Loft to revolutionize pilot training, making it more immersive and effective. This investment will not only enhance our industry-leading training program but also pave the way for future training solutions across the aviation industry.”

“This funding round isn’t just a milestone—it’s a signal,” added Riesen. “A signal that the wider industry is ready for change. We’re proud to have the backing of The Friedkin Group, Alaska Airlines and our existing shareholders. I’m thrilled to welcome Dan to our board—his strategic insight and passion for aviation will be invaluable as we scale. Together, we’re building a safer, smarter, more accessible future for aviation training—one that serves operators, regulators and pilots, and protects the millions of passengers who rely on them.”

About Loft Dynamics
Loft Dynamics AG is the global leader in qualified virtual reality flight simulation training devices (FSTD). It is the only VR FSTD qualified by the FAA and EASA. Equipped with a 3D high-resolution panoramic view, dynamic six-degrees-of-freedom motion platform, and full-scale replica cockpit with a unique pose tracking system, our revolutionary VR simulators provide a more immersive, realistic, customizable, and safe training experience. By offering a training solution 10 times smaller and significantly more cost-effective than legacy simulators, we make training more accessible and scalable than ever before. We serve leading manufacturers, airlines, operators, schools, and organizations worldwide. Headquartered in Santa Monica, California, and Zurich, Switzerland, our team comprises passionate engineers, developers, and aviation experts.

Source: Loft Dynamics

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Flight Training Group Leading Edge Aviation Welcomes New & Exclusive Partners, Aurigny and Norse Atlantic UK

United Kingdom – headquartered flight training group Leading Edge Aviation, which operates flight training bases in the UK and Spain, is proud to announce a historic partnership with Aurigny and Norse Atlantic UK, launching a new, fully integrated pilot pathway to the commercial flight deck. This collaboration provides Leading Edge students with a clearly defined career path, from initial training through to becoming a long-haul pilot. By connecting these progressive and innovative aviation organisations, this partnership demonstrates the shared commitment to excellence, quality, and opportunity within this growing industry.

A Career Journey from Classroom to Flight Deck 

This partnership offers students enrolled in the LEAP (Leading Edge Airline Preparation) integrated Programme an opportunity to be selected for a fast-tracked career pathway. Beginning with flight training at Leading Edge Aviation before progressing to the ATR 72 with Aurigny, and ultimately, transitioning to a long-haul operation, flying the Boeing 787 Dreamliner with Norse Atlantic UK.

“This pathway sets a new benchmark in the pilot training industry,” said Andy McFarlane, CEO and Founder of Leading Edge Aviation. “Our collaboration with Aurigny and Norse Atlantic UK not only addresses the increasing global demand for skilled pilots but also delivers an unparalleled opportunity for our students. There is currently no other route that offers such a clear, structured, and accelerated path to the long-haul flight deck.”

Strong Foundations in Aviation 

Leading Edge Aviation, based at London Oxford Airport, is recognised for delivering one of the most modern, student-focused integrated pilot training experiences in Europe. The LEAP Programme offers:

Aurigny, founded in 1968 and wholly owned by the States of Guernsey, is one of Europe’s longest-serving regional airlines. Operating from Guernsey, Aurigny provides vital air connectivity for the Channel Islands and plays a key role in supporting the islands’ economy and infrastructure. Its modern fleet of ATR aircraft delivers regional services across the UK and beyond.

Norse Atlantic UK, part of Norse Atlantic Airways, is a cutting-edge long-haul airline offering affordable transatlantic flights with a focus on sustainability and quality. Operating the Boeing 787 Dreamliner from London Gatwick, Norse provides a dynamic and rewarding career path for pilots in wide-body international operations.

A Structured, Aspirational Path 

Starting this year, students will have the opportunity to be “tagged” by Aurigny and Norse Atlantic UK after completing the ground school phase of their training with Leading Edge Aviation. They will continue their flight training on a modern fleet of aircraft at Leading Edge’s Campuses in Oxford, UK, and Alhama, Southern Spain.

Once qualified, cadets will join Aurigny as First Officers on the ATR 72, gaining valuable operational experience flying regional routes. Following approximately two years of service, these pilots will progress to Norse Atlantic UK, joining the Boeing 787 fleet operating long-haul services from Gatwick Airport.

Philip Smallwood, Chief Operations Officer at Aurigny, said: “It’s great to be able to launch this new and exciting element of our career partnership with Norse Atlantic UK, a fully integrated pilot pathway from first flight to wide-body jet. It places both Aurigny and Guernsey firmly at the heart of pilot careers, helping to ensure a long-term source of aviation talent for our islands’ air services. We’re also proud to be recruiting from the first-class Leading Edge Airline Preparation programme (LEAP), which we’re confident will give us a source of high-calibre First Officers for the future.”

This collaboration provides not only a seamless progression from training to career but also reflects the shared values of all three partners: commitment to safety, sustainability, innovation in training, and creating high-quality opportunities for the next generation of airline pilots.

Leading Edge Aviation is proud to support Aurigny and Norse Atlantic UK in building a sustainable pipeline of skilled, well-prepared pilots to meet the future demands of the global aviation industry.

About Leading Edge Aviation
Leading Edge Aviation is a firmly established pilot training academy with a fresh approach and an emphasis on holistic training. Offering the highest standards of regulatory technical training, students also benefit from a comprehensive professional and personal development curriculum to enhance non-technical skills. This is delivered through ‘The Whole Pilot®’ Approach, which focuses on developing diverse abilities that go beyond just technical proficiency. Based at London Oxford Airport and Alhama, Southern Spain, and with a commitment to holistic pilot development, Leading Edge Aviation offers a range of modular and integrated training programmes, including the innovative LEAP (Leading Edge Airline Preparation) course—a full-time integrated course with BSc degree (UK only) and a comprehensive graduate airline selection preparation workshop. Facilities at both locations support a comprehensive educational experience, combining modern aircraft and simulators, advanced learning technologies, and a vibrant student living environment. Leading Edge also delivers modular training (including Ground School, MECPL, CBIR, MEIR, uMAP (university Modular Airline Preparation), A-UPRT (Advanced Upset Prevention Recovery Training), APC MCC (Airline Pilot Standards Multi Crew Co-operation) at its UK base in Oxford. 

Source: Leading Edge Aviation

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Reiser Simulation and Training Announces Successful EASA Qualification of Latest Avionics Suite – Airbus Helicopters Helionix V10 Update

Germany – Reiser Simulation and Training GmbH (REISER) is proud to announce the successful qualification of the latest avionics suite update, which depicts the Airbus Helicopters Helionix V10, by the Austrian aviation authority Austro Control in accordance with EASA regulations without any critical findings.

This qualification was achieved on REISER’s H145 D3 full-flight simulator at Norwegian Competence Centre Helicopter (NCCH) in Stavanger, Norway, making REISER one of the first known manufacturers worldwide to bring Helionix V10 into an EASA-certified Level D training environment, thus enabling operators to train on the newest H145 cockpit standard with full credit.

“Our customers can now train on the newest H145 D3 cockpit standard from day one, with full EASA credit. This milestone ensures seamless transition from simulator to aircraft and reinforces our commitment to delivering training solutions that keep pace with the latest operational requirements.” Dr. Thomas Nicolay, Chief Sales Officer, Reiser Simulation and Training.

Key Helionix V10 updates now integrated into REISER simulators:

  • Enhanced Automatic Flight Control System (AFCS) with new CAT A take-off functions like rearwards, vertical, rejected and continued take-off modes for precision handling in low visibility
  • Expansion and enhancement of AFCS upper modes like Ground Trajectory Control (GTC), Go Around (GA), Height Hover, Tactical (TAC)
  • Updated warnings and cautions for protection against vortex ring state condition
  • Usage monitoring system modification for better handling exceedances and crew notification
  • Performance page updates to include CAT A heliport and HEC clear area
  • Improved symbology for easier avionic interaction
  • Real-time simulator avionics switching capability between Helionix V8 and V10. This pioneering feature, available exclusively from Reiser, enables seamless transitions between avionics versions within the same simulator environment.

About Reiser Simulation and Training
Reiser Simulation and Training GmbH develops, manufactures and supports high-fidelity simulation training devices for civil and military operators. REISER’s portfolio spans Full-Flight Simulators (FFS) and Flight Training Devices (FTD) through to customized training solutions, all focused on training realism, availability, and lifecycle value. Learn more at reiser-st.com.

Source: Reiser Simulation and Training

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Leading Edge Aviation COO and Students Visit Boeing UK Training Academy in August 2025

United Kingdom – headquartered flight training group Leading Edge Aviation, which operates flight training bases in the UK and Spain, represented by its Chief Operating Officer and students visited the Boeing UK Training Academy for an immersive training experience.

  • Students met with Captain Karsten Liljegren, Director Global Flight Training, who shared insights from his distinguished aviation career.

  • The group also had the rare opportunity to operate the Boeing 787-9 Full Flight Simulator under the instruction of Captain Andrew Fonseca.

  • The experience was designed to expand students’ exposure beyond their standard pilot training, aligning with Leading Edge Aviation’s ‘Whole Pilot’ philosophy.

Source: Leading Edge Aviation

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