Market Intelligence: -Interview Series

Pilot Training Industry Supplier Feature – Flycore – CRM Platform for Flight Schools

In this week’s AFM Pilot Training Leadership Interview Series we speak with Doug Abramowitz, Co-Founder and CEO at Flycore. Flycore is a CRM platform designed specifically for flight schools, built by aviation professionals. Flycore centralizes lead management, communication, and student engagement in one system.

The conversation covers:

  • Flycore’s origin: Doug Abramowitz’s aviation journey began early, progressing from flight training in high school to instructing, flight school management, and corporate aviation. His hands-on experience exposed inefficiencies in how flight schools handled leads, communication, and customer engagement. Flycore was founded in 2023 to address these gaps with a purpose-built CRM designed specifically for flight training organizations.
  • Flycore’s mission and value proposition: Flycore centralizes lead management, communication, and student engagement into a single, aviation-focused platform. Its goal is to improve the customer journey from the very first inquiry by enabling immediate follow-up, consistent communication, and clear visibility into each student’s progress. By replacing spreadsheets and generic tools, Flycore helps flight schools operate more professionally and competitively.
  • Impact on flight schools and customer experience: Flight schools using Flycore have seen tangible improvements in conversion rates, internal processes, and overall student experience. Schools transitioning from no CRM gain business-level visibility, while those switching from tools like Salesforce or HubSpot benefit from a simpler, industry-specific interface. This focus allows staff to spend less time managing software and more time engaging with students.
  • Industry trends, demand, and challenges: Doug highlights sustained growth in career-oriented pilot training, with flight schools now competing on a national scale due to financing options and student mobility. While demand remains strong, maintaining training quality as the industry scales is a key challenge. Smaller flight schools are increasingly investing in sales, marketing, and structured follow-up to compete with large training organizations.
  • Flycore’s role in the future of pilot training: Flycore positions itself as vertical software built by pilots for pilots, embedding best practices directly into its workflows. By learning from successful flight schools and continuously refining outreach and communication strategies, Flycore helps schools reduce student drop-off and deliver a more coherent training journey.

For more information:

You can find all of the AFM.aero Pilot Training Industry Interview Episodes here.

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Pilot Training Industry Supplier Feature – Stratus Financial – USA Based Flight Training Student Loan Provider

In this week’s AFM Pilot Training Leadership Interview Series we speak with Brandon Martini, Co-CEO and Co-Founder of Stratus Financial. Late last year AFM reported that Stratus Financial, a leading provider of aviation-training financing solutions, had announced that its investment fund has reached $20 million in assets and has partnered with more than 375 flight schools since its inception in 2021.

The conversation covers:

  • From pilot to entrepreneur: Brandon Martini shared his journey from earning his private pilot license to building and scaling a successful flight school operation, which ultimately led to the creation of Stratus Financial. His firsthand experience with the financial barriers faced by student pilots inspired him to develop a dedicated lending solution for flight training.
  • Building Stratus Financial to fill a critical gap: Stratus Financial was founded to address the lack of accessible financing for aspiring pilots. Today, the company partners with hundreds of flight schools across North America and has injected nearly $100 million into the pilot training industry.
  • Strong growth and investor confidence: Stratus recently, in October 2025, surpassed the $20 million funding milestone, delivering significant returns to investors, and continues to grow rapidly. Brandon emphasized that while capital raising is challenging, strong execution and a committed team have fueled sustained momentum.
  • Industry outlook and pilot demand: Brandon remains highly bullish on the aviation industry, citing long-term pilot shortages driven by retirements and increasing global demand. He highlighted that pilot careers now offer exceptional compensation, work-life flexibility, and long-term stability compared to many other professions.
  • Education, mindset, and community building: Beyond financing, Stratus focuses on improving pilot success through industry events like AeroSummit and Ascend Flight Training Summit, fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing. Brandon stressed that resilience, communication skills, and perseverance are essential for students to succeed in training and in their aviation careers.

For more information:

You can find all of the AFM.aero Pilot Training Industry Interview Episodes here.

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Pilot Training Industry Supplier Feature – Propair Flight – Digital Model Developer for Flight Simulators

In this week’s AFM Pilot Training Leadership Interview Series we speak with Balázs Bojkó, Chief Technology Officer at Propair Flight – which revolutionize the way new generations of pilots, whether future professionals or passionate enthusiasts learn and train. Believing that the integration of cutting-edge digital technologies, such as gaming engines, virtual reality (VR), artificial intelligence (AI), and data analytics, opens unprecedented opportunities to deliver educational experiences that are not only highly effective but also genuinely engaging and fun.

The conversation covers:

  • Propair Flight is a technology company specializing in developing high-fidelity virtual training environments for the aviation industry. Their work includes creating 3D aircraft and airport models, flight simulation systems, and immersive learning tools that make traditional pilot training more engaging and effective. The company has grown into a 42-member team driven by the vision of transforming how pilots learn and practice across all stages of their training journey.
  • From Simulation Design to Real-World Application: Propair Flight’s solutions go beyond visual realism — they focus on functionality, system accuracy, and scenario-based learning. Their technology allows pilots to train in highly detailed virtual environments that replicate real-world flight conditions, procedures, and decision-making situations. By combining technical precision with engaging user experiences, the company provides tools that enhance pilot readiness and confidence long before they enter a full-flight simulator.
  • Bridging the Gap Between Academy and Airline Training: The company’s Airbus A320 Guidance Management Trainer helps bridge the gap between type rating and real-world airline operations. Designed as a compact, single-pilot device, it allows pilots to practice normal procedures and automation management independently. Guided by built-in software and training programs, the device enables cadets to gain hands-on experience before entering full-flight simulators or line training.
  • Strategic Partnerships and Data-Driven Innovation: Propair Flight collaborates closely with AXIS Aviation to integrate VR and mixed-reality solutions into training ecosystems. Their joint work aims to offer full-scope training packages — from system familiarization to procedure trainers — while collecting performance data to validate training effectiveness. Balázs emphasizes that data-driven insights and certification are key to making AI and VR tools part of approved pilot training programs.
  • The Future of Pilot Training and Propair Flight’s Vision: Balázs predicts that simulators will evolve into intelligent training devices combining realism with interactive learning layers. He highlights the importance of developing not just technical, but also non-technical competencies like decision-making and teamwork. Looking ahead to 2026, Propair Flight plans to launch an integrated training suite combining flashcards, questionnaires, and VR tools — part of their mission to modernize training while preserving the core values of aviation instruction.

For more information:

You can find all of the AFM.aero Pilot Training Industry Interview Episodes here.

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Pilot Training Industry Supplier Feature – Keyvan Aviation – Aeronautical and Navigation Database Solutions for Flight Simulators

In this week’s AFM Pilot Training Leadership Interview Series we speak with Mehmet Keyvan, CEO & Chairman at Keyvan Aviation (Keyvan Group), offering Big Data solutions and services in the aviation field, including with the approved Aeronautical and Navigation Database for Aircraft Avionics Systems, Flight Simulators and Flight Planning systems, and many other tailored data solutions.

The conversation covers:

  • Company Origins & Mission: Mehmet Keyvan founded Keyvan Aviation to provide certified global aeronautical and navigation data essential for flight operations, avionics, and simulators. As an EASA Type 1 Data Provider, the company ensures aviation stakeholders have access to precise, regulatory-compliant databases used by airlines, flight schools, and simulator operators.
  • Commitment to Data Quality & Certification: Mehmet Keyvan emphasized that “flying without data is like flying with closed eyes,” highlighting the importance of reliable, certified information in aviation safety and training. The company’s focus is on delivering trustworthy, high-quality data tailored to each client’s specific system and operational needs.
  • Strategic Partnerships & Innovation: Keyvan Aviation collaborates with major simulator and tech firms like Quantum3D, Simnest, and HAVELSAN to integrate high-quality data into 3D simulations and AI-powered systems. These partnerships aim to improve training realism and data analytics, supporting the growing need for efficient, modern pilot training solutions.
  • AI, Digitalization & Data-Driven Training: Mehmet believes artificial intelligence and real-time data will transform how pilots are assessed and trained, enabling more targeted and adaptive learning. By analyzing simulator data, instructors can identify weaknesses and tailor future sessions, enhancing safety and operational readiness.
  • Vision & Competitive Edge: Keyvan Aviation differentiates itself through its global data coverage, competitive pricing, and 24/7 technical support. With coverage of over 55,000 aerodromes and heliports worldwide, the company combines certification, quality, and customer service to meet the evolving needs of the aviation training industry.

 For more information:

You can find all of the AFM.aero Pilot Training Industry Interview Episodes here.

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Pilot Training Industry Supplier Feature – Symbiotics – Leading Aspiring Pilot and Pilot Assessment Solutions

In this week’s AFM Pilot Training Leadership Interview Series we speak with Hannah Davies, Director of Strategy and Growth at Symbiotics – a leading assessment solution provider for the pilot training ecosystem and airlines.

The conversation covers:

  • Company Overview: Symbiotics are global leaders with over 30 years’ experience specialising in psychometric assessments for aviation professionals through their ADAPT online platform, delivering over 150,000 tests annually across 80 countries. Their solutions support airlines, training schools, militaries, and other aviation operators worldwide, to support the recruitment, selection and development of aviation professionals aligned with ICAO competencies and regulatory requirements.
  • Expansion into Cabin Crew Assessments: Symbiotics recently expanded its expertise to include cabin crew assessments. Developed with industry input and aligned with ICAO competencies and CBTA principles, the new suite evaluates personality, cognitive reasoning, and crew resource management skills. The company also partnered with Sky People Training to add a foundation knowledge test, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation for both new and experienced crew.
  • Global Presence and Innovation: Active at key training and aviation events worldwide, Symbiotics values direct engagement with clients to gather feedback and share insights. The company continues to innovate, with the upcoming launch of a mobile-optimised testing interface aimed at enhancing accessibility and user experience during global recruitment campaigns.
  • Industry Trends and Challenges: Hannah highlighted that while pilot recruitment has slowed due to supply chain issues, demand is expected to rise again soon. She noted a stronger focus on selecting the right candidates early to reduce training costs and improve success rates. A key challenge remains aligning and analysing large datasets to link psychometric outcomes with training performance under CBTA and EBT frameworks.
  • The Future of Pilot Training and Symbiotics’ Role: Looking ahead, Hannah envisions a more data-driven and inclusive pilot training industry, with competency-based and personalised learning paths. She also sees growing use of AI and technology – where proven effective – to enhance training quality and safety. Symbiotics aims to stay at the forefront by combining innovation, data analysis, and close collaboration with clients.

For more information:

You can find all of the AFM.aero Pilot Training Industry Interview Episodes here.

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Pilot Training Industry Supplier Feature – Brunner Elektronik – Full Motion Mixed Reality EASA Certified Flight Simulator Manufacturer

In this week’s AFM Pilot Training Leadership Interview Series we speak with Roger Klingler – CEO at BRUNNER Elektronik AG, a leading Swiss manufacturer of advanced flight simulation technologies and systems.

The conversation covers:

  • Company Background & Evolution: Brunner Elektronik AG, founded in 1968 in Switzerland, began with industrial motor drives and machine controls. In 2010, the company entered the flight simulation market, becoming a leader in control loading systems for both fixed-wing and rotary simulators worldwide. Their DNA combines deep industrial expertise with innovation and Swiss manufacturing quality.
  • Innovation in Mixed Reality Simulation: The company’s breakthrough came with integrating virtual and mixed reality into pilot training. Their NOVASIM product line uses full-motion mixed reality technology to align visual and physical sensations, enabling natural cockpit interaction. This innovation is applied not only in aviation but also in eVTOL, civil, defense, and university research.
  • Milestone Achievement with NOVASIM DA42: In partnership with Lufthansa Aviation Training, Brunner deployed the world’s first mixed reality full-motion simulator qualified to EASA standards. This marks a historic shift, officially allowing mixed reality technology to be used for civilian pilot training in Europe. The NOVASIM DA42 offers high fidelity, immersive training at a fraction of the cost of full-flight simulators. See more information on the device here: Brunner Releases Fact Sheet on World’s First Qualified Mixed Reality Flight Simulator – AFM.aero
  • Addressing Pilot Shortages & Industry Challenges: Roger highlighted the global demand for hundreds of thousands of new pilots, driven by air travel growth and retirements. Barriers include high training costs, long timelines, and reduced career attractiveness. Brunner’s simulators aim to make training more efficient, affordable, and engaging for younger generations who expect modern immersive technologies.
  • Future Trends & Vision: Roger sees the future of pilot training moving toward personalized, competency-based, and data-driven approaches, supported by AI and eye-tracking analytics. Mixed reality will continue to grow, especially in smaller aircraft and defense applications where situational awareness is key. Brunner positions itself as a trusted partner offering reliable Swiss quality, innovation, and scalable solutions to advance global pilot training.

Simulator Manufacturer, BRUNNER Elektronik, to Showcase the Brand New and World’s First Qualified Mixed Reality FNPT II at EATS 2025 – AFM.aero

For more information:

You can find all of the AFM.aero Pilot Training Industry Interview Episodes here.

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Expanding Helicopter Training Program’s from Europe Across the Globe – RotorSky

In this week’s AFM Pilot Training Leadership Interview Series we speak with Dr. Michael Mayrhofer – CEO at RotorSky – a leading helicopter pilot training organization, boasting over 20 years of experience and multiple operating bases – across Austria, Germany, and in the USA.

The conversation covers:

  • Training organisation overview: RotorSky is headquartered in Linz (Austria) and operating across Austria, Germany, Norway, and the USA. Originally founded as a local flight school, it has grown into an internationally recognized Approved Training Organisation (ATO) offering both basic licensing (PPL, CPL) and advanced recurrent and type-rating programmes, primarily on Airbus and Leonardo helicopters. Under the leadership of Dr. Michael Mayrhofer, RotorSky has expanded its reach globally, combining traditional training with cutting-edge simulator technology developments.
  • Innovation & Training Technology: RotorSky recently achieved a global milestone with the world’s first EASA-qualified Night Vision Imaging System-capable FTD. This cost-effective, three-step training approach integrates projection and VR to realistically simulate NVG operations, enabling pilots to train for diverse scenarios—such as offshore and emergency missions—more safely and affordably than in real helicopters.
  • Global Programs & Partnerships: Rotorsky’s global operations span Austria, the US, Norway, and a few other countires, with RotorSky managing simulators and overseeing instructor qualification, examinations, and training standards. While rooted in helicopter training, RotorSky also offers fixed-wing programmes in partnership with Hillsboro Aero Academy (USA). Their “Global Access” model enables pilots to earn both FAA and EASA licences, creating worldwide employability.
  • Industry Outlook & Challenges: Michael notes a worldwide shortage of experienced pilots, with demand particularly strong in Brazil, the US, Asia-Pacific, and Europe.
  • RotorSky’s Value Proposition: The company prides itself on a customer-oriented approach, high safety standards, and exceptional instructor quality capable of adapting to varied cultures, operators’ requirements and experience levels. Every training programme is customised to match client SOPs, operational needs, and regulatory frameworks. Michael values AFM as a strategic communication and networking platform to stay informed and share RotorSky’s developments globally.

For more information:

You can find all of the AFM.aero Pilot Training Industry Interview Episodes here.

To stay up to date and get notified about all of the latest episodes from AFM you can follow us through the below platforms:

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Pilot Training Industry Supplier Feature – JETPUBS – Delivering Customized Manuals and Training Materials

In this week’s AFM Pilot Training Leadership Interview Series we speak with Larissa Fildes – CEO at Jetpubs, which empowers aviation operators to stay compliant, efficient, and training-ready by delivering fully customized manuals and training materials.

The conversation covers:

  • Jetpubs’ Dual Focus and Growth: Larissa Fildes shared her 20-year journey from marketing to leading Jetpubs, a company that provides customized manuals and training materials for aviation operators. Jetpubs operates with a dual focus: a full-service tech pubs department powered by proprietary software, and a robust training materials division, supporting over 600 clients globally.
  • Tech Innovation: iPad App & New Tools: Jetpubs recently launched version 4.2.0 of its iPad app, which now includes fillable forms for students and instructors—streamlining training processes and document handling. They also introduced a new version of their Cockpit Companion, an interactive training tool that improves procedural learning and reduces simulator hours.
  • Industry Trends: Blending Old & New Tools: Larissa noted a resurgence in demand for traditional tools like cockpit posters and static trainers, as VR—while valuable—still poses challenges in cognitive overload and practical application. She emphasized the importance of layering training tools appropriately rather than overwhelming trainees with too much complexity at once.
  • Current Challenges: Supply Chain, Remote Work, and Public Perception: Key industry challenges include maintaining training effectiveness in remote environments and managing public perception amid rapid information spread. Jetpubs responds by customizing materials for durability and usage context, recruiting talent nationwide, and continuously evaluating client outcomes over flashy tech trends (“tool seduction”).
  • Vision for the Future and Role of AFM: While the future of pilot training is still emerging, Larissa believes we are at an inflection point. She expects more focus on teaching trainees how to learn in modern training environments. Jetpubs leverages AFM as both a “megaphone” for visibility and a “radar” for market intelligence, using it to stay informed and proactive in adapting to the industry’s evolving needs.

For more information:

You can find all of the AFM.aero Pilot Training Industry Interview Episodes here.

To stay up to date and get notified about all of the latest episodes from AFM you can follow us through the below platforms:

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Pilot Training Industry Supplier Feature – Bristell Aircraft – Manufacturing Over 100 Aircraft Annually

In this week’s AFM Pilot Training Leadership Interview Series we speak with David Copeland – Vice President of Sales at Bristell Aircraft. Bristell by BRM AERO manufactures aircraft used by flight training organizations, with more than 1000 aircraft delivered worldwide.

The conversation covers:

  • Extensive Aviation Experience and Passion-Driven Leadership: At Bristell Aircraft, David plays a key role in expanding the brand’s global presence, aligning his values of innovation, quality, and safety with Bristell’s mission to redefine personal and training aircraft.
  • Bristell’s Largest-Ever Presence at Oshkosh 2025: Bristell Aircraft is making its biggest appearance ever at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh with three display locations. The company will showcase several aircraft, including the B23, an LSA model, and the H55 electric aircraft, which has completed over 100 flights across the U.S.
  • FAA Certification and Innovation Roadmap: Bristell Aircraft is currently awaiting final FAA certification. Their single production line builds aircraft for various certifications, emphasizing consistent quality and efficiency. Bristell is also investing in future technologies, such as the H55 electric platform and a new turboprop engine developed with Turbotech, signaling their forward-looking approach to sustainable aviation.
  • Meeting Pilot Demand with Modern Training Aircraft: David discussed the growing demand for modern flight training aircraft. He emphasized that pilots no longer want to train in outdated planes from the 60s and 70s. Bristell meets this demand by producing around 110 aircraft annually, built with modern avionics, efficient powerplants, and BRS (Ballistic Recovery Systems) safety systems.
  • Why Clients Choose Bristell: Bristell Aircraft stand out due to their focus on safety, comfort (featuring the widest cabins in its category), cutting-edge design, and premium quality materials. The aircraft are custom-built and engineered with pilot experience at the core. David also highlighted the strong alignment with AFM’s pilot training market intelligence, using it to better understand industry trends and contribute to shaping the future of aviation.

For more information:

You can find all of the AFM.aero Pilot Training Industry Interview Episodes here.

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Pilot Training Industry Supplier Feature – H55 – Electrifying the Flight Training Industry

In this week’s AFM Pilot Training Leadership Interview Series we speak with Axel Doffey – Sales & Business Development Manager at H55 – a Swiss company which is developing certified electric propulsion systems for the aviation and pilot training industry, which are clean, quiet, safe, and affordable.

The conversation covers:

  • Company Background & Mission: H55 is a Swiss-based aerospace company born from the Solar Impulse Project, aiming to revolutionize aviation with certified electric propulsion systems. With a team that grew to 120+ employees across Switzerland and Canada, H55 focuses on integrating electric propulsion systems including its batteries systems and controls into aircraft to support clean, safe, and affordable aviation. Their flagship electric propulsion system is designed to be certified under EASA in 2026 and FAA regulations in 2027.
  • Key Partnerships & Applications: H55 is collaborating with multiple aircraft manufacturers and operators, including BRM Aero (B23 Energic electric trainer), CAE and Piper (electrifying the Piper Archer), Harbour Air (electric seaplane project), and Pratt & Whitney Canada (hybrid-electric Dash 8 project). These initiatives aim to cover applications from pilot training to regional commuter aircraft, with a focus on reducing CO₂ emissions and operational costs.
  • B23 Energic US Tour & Feedback: H55 and BRM Aero undertook a high-profile U.S. tour showcasing the B23 Energic, which included stops at major aviation hubs and universities. With over 100 electric landings, the aircraft demonstrated strong performance, reliability, and operational benefits, like reduced noise and better communication between students and instructors. Its all-electric system provides consistent performance regardless of altitude and is well-suited for flight schools.
  • Economic & Environmental Advantages: The electric aircraft with H55’s powerplant offers significant benefits for flight schools: lower direct operational costs, longer intervals between major maintenance (e.g., battery replacement after 1500 hours), and quieter operation—an asset in noise-sensitive airport areas. Electric training also appeals to environmentally conscious students seeking sustainable paths to becoming pilots.
  • Future Vision & AFM Collaboration: H55 aims to expand access to electric flight training with partners like AeroVolt, supporting both aircraft supply and the growing electric charging infrastructure. The company views AFM as a strategic platform to connect with the global pilot training industry, increase awareness of its offerings, and support the transition to sustainable aviation through technology and community engagement.

For more information:

You can find all of the AFM.aero Pilot Training Industry Interview Episodes here.

To stay up to date and get notified about all of the latest episodes from AFM you can follow us through the below platforms:

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