Market Intelligence: LATAM

Flight Simulator Manufacturer, Simnest, Expands its Product Range with Boeing B737 Simulator

After nearly ten years of success and twenty Simnest simulators installed and qualified, Simnest Aviation is adding a B737 FNPT II MCC to its portfolio in a pre-order promotion.

Simnest Aviation has installed 20 flight simulation training devices in 8 countries worldwide since its first Airbus A320-based type representative simulator. Simnest simulators have been used for almost a year to train future pilots for Wizz Air, one of the world’s largest low-cost airlines, and from 2025 for Brussels Airlines. Their proprietary Simnest A320 software powers several A320-based simulators, manufactured by Flightdeck Solutions, in the United States and South Korea.

Responding to market needs, Simnest Aviation is fulfilling a long-held dream with the newly announced Simnest B737 FNPT II MCC, available with NG and MAX layouts. As with Simnest’s two previous products, the Simnest A320 FNPT II MCC and the Simnest A320 AATD, the most important aspect of the Boeing 737 simulator is to be as realistic as possible in every aspect. “Well-developed muscle memory can be vital in a more risky situation. It is therefore paramount that Simnest simulators represent the type with high fidelity. Our goal is to replicate reality within our devices, enabling our customers to provide top-tier training for their cadets and ensuring safer aviation,” said CEO Miklós Kacsó about the quality of the new Simnest B737 product.

Thanks to this realistic B737 environment and behavior, one of the most advantageous and attractive features of the new Simnest device for future pilots and thus to ATOs’ is that it is created for APS MCC training. Of the courses currently available, the APS MCC provides cadets with the most comprehensive knowledge and competencies that airlines are looking for in their candidates, the APS MCC will thus maximize their chances of finding employment with commercial airlines.

The Simnest Multifunctional Control Unit (SMCU), which integrates and controls the individual components of Simnest simulators, will also be included in Simnest’s latest product. This will eliminate the need for dedicated technical staff to operate the Simnest B737 simulator, as the SMCU interface makes it as easy to operate the simulator as a smartphone. In addition, the fully separated development partition of the SMCU allows the testing of recent developments, new features, or any requested modification in a safe environment. A complete QTG can be run on it without compromising the qualified training mode or interrupting a session.

Since Simnest Aviation also operates its own ATO, Simnest Pilot Academy, the Simnest B737 FNPT II MCC customers are not only provided with a type-representative simulator but also with nearly a decade of ATO operation experience and knowledge. Simnest can transfer its knowledge to customers not only by providing personal support for the qualification processes but also, on request, by providing manuals and documentation packages vital for the operation of ATOs.

To celebrate the launch, Simnest Aviation is offering an exclusive pre-order promotion. The first three customers who sign a letter of intent for the purchase of a Simnest B737 FNPT II MCC simulator by the end of May and finalize the contract by the end of 2024 will receive a 20.000 EUR discount on the purchase price.

Simnest Aviation will showcase its groundbreaking B737 simulator for the first time at IFTE in Istanbul from 3 to 5 May, 2024. Additionally, the company will exhibit at APATS in Singapore in September and EATS in Portugal in November, where company representatives will present the new product in detail.

Source: Simnest
Photo Credit: Simnest

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Flight Simulator Manufacturer Wright Brothers Flight Technology Announces New 2024 Leasing Program for Flight Schools

Netherlands based flight simulator manufacturer Wright Brothers Flight Technology (WBFT) has announced a new leasing program tailored specifically to the needs of smaller flight schools.

“Our state-of-the-art certified flight simulators — C172, DA40, DA42, and P2006T — are now available for lease starting at just €2850 per month. This initiative comes in response to the increasing demand for accessible, high-quality training solutions. We understand that budget constraints can often restrict the growth and scaling of training operations of flight schools which have demand but do not have resources available. Our flexible leasing options are crafted to alleviate these constraints, enabling ATOs to expand their training capabilities without a hefty upfront investment. By launching this program, we prove once again our commitment to the pilot training industry and expect to increase our contribution to the safer skies.” shared Wright Brothers Flight Technology.

Source: Wright Brothers Flight Technology

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IATA: Passenger Demand Up 21.5% in February 2024 Compared to February 2023

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for February 2024 global passenger demand with the following highlights:

Total demand, measured in revenue passenger kilometers (RPKs), was up 21.5% compared to February 2023. Total capacity, measured in available seat kilometers (ASK), was up 18.7% year-on-year. The February load factor was 80.6% (+1.9ppt compared to February 2023).

International demand rose 26.3% compared to February 2023; capacity was up 25.5% year-on-year and the load factor improved to 79.3% (+0.5ppt on February 2023).

Domestic demand rose 15.0% compared to February 2023; capacity was up 9.4% year-on-year and the load factor was 82.6% (+4.0ppt compared to February 2023).

Note that February 2024 was a leap year with one extra day compared to February 2023. This slightly exaggerates growth in both demand and capacity to the positive.

“The strong start to 2024 continued in February with all markets except North America reporting double-digit growth in passenger traffic. There is good reason to be optimistic about the industry’s prospects in 2024 as airlines accelerate investments in decarbonization and passenger demand shows resilience in the face of geopolitical and economic uncertainties.  It is critical that politicians resist the temptation of cash grabs with new taxes that could destabilize this positive trajectory and make travel more expensive. In particular, Europe is a worry as it seems determined to lock in its sluggish economic recovery with uncompetitive tax proposals,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

International Passenger Markets

All regions showed double digit growth for international passenger markets in February 2024 compared to February 2023. For the first time, demand for international services exceeded pre-pandemic levels (+0.9% compared to February 2023). This, however, is skewed by February 2024 being a leap-year with an extra day compared to February 2023.

Asia-Pacific airlines saw a 53.2% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 52.1% year-on-year and the load factor rose to 84.9% (+0.6ppt compared to February 2023), the highest among all regions.

European carriers’ saw a 15.9% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 16.0% year-on-year, and the load factor was 74.7% (flat compared to February 2023).

Middle Eastern airlines saw a 19.7% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 19.1% year-on-year and the load factor rose to 80.8% (+0.4ppt compared to February 2023).

North American carriers saw a 16.0% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 17.6% year-on-year, and the load factor fell to 77.7% (-1.1ppt compared to February 2023).

Latin American airlines’ saw a 21.0% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity climbed 18.6% year-on-year. The load factor rose to 84.2% (+1.7ppt compared to February 2023).

African airlines’ saw a 20.7% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity was up 22.1% year-on-year. The load factor fell to 74.0% (-0.8ppt compared to February 2023).

Source: International Air Transport Association
Photo Credit: International Air Transport Association

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Airbus Announces Commercial Aircraft Orders and Deliveries for the Month of March 2024

In March 2024, European aircraft manufacturer Airbus:

  • Delivered 63 aircraft to 32 customers
    • 1 A220-100
    • 3 A220-300
    • 23 A320neo
    • 28 A321neo
    • 3 A330-900
    • 3 A350-900
    • 2 A350-1000
  • Secured 137 orders
    • 1 A319neo
    • 10 A320neo
    • 85 A321neo
    • 3 A330-900
    • 5 A350F
    • 6 A350-900
    • 27 A350-1000
  • Year to date Airbus has delivered 142 aircraft to 45 customers.

AFM Team Note – kindly contact us for a detailed excel breakdown of orders and deliveries by airline.

See last month’s order here.

Source: Airbus
Photo Credit: Airbus

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International Aviation Recruitment Consultancy, Aerviva, Shares Insights on Pilot Training Opportunities

Dubai, United Arab Emirates headquartered aviation recruitment firm Aerviva has shared its thoughts on 3 opportunities in pilot training that could have a lasting impact.

Developments in financial support, inclusion and technologies mean pilot training is becoming more diversified and accessible than ever before. Combine this with high demand for pilots, both today and in the future, and the opportunities for trainee pilots are exciting, says Jainita Hogervorst. Jainita is the Director of Dubai-based Aviation Consultancy Aerviva, which provides aviation recruitment and document management. In this article she sheds light on 3 exciting opportunities in pilot training and the impact they could have.

A unique context for trainee pilots

“Finding pilots is a challenge for airlines at the moment,” says Jainita. “The mandatory retirement age of 65, a wave of early retirements and a training bottleneck during COVID, plus an increasing average pilot age, mean demand for pilots is high and is forecast to increase,” comments Jainita. According to Boeing’s latest Pilot and Technician Outlook, the industry will need an additional 649,000 new pilots in the next 20 years. The IATA puts the figure at 620,000 new pilots by 2037. “So, if you have been considering piloting as a career, there has never been a better time,” Jainita concludes.

Is a career as a pilot right for you?

“Before you sign up for flight school, it is important weigh up the pros and cons,” cautions Jainita. “If you want a 9-6, this is not a role for you. Plus, it comes with a lot of responsibility. On the positive side, you get a well-paid position with a wide range of opportunities.” First Officers in the US earn from $78,000 to $110,000 (for example, First Officers currently earn $93,605 at American Airlines and Delta). Pilots with 12 years’ experience are earning over $300,000 at airlines like Spirit and Alaska. “You will also get to see a lot of the world and piloting remains a high-status career,” continues Jainita. If this sounds appealing, Jainita believes it has never been a better time to train as a pilot thanks to 3 factors: more financial support, increased diversity, and advanced technology.

Pilot training opportunity 1: financial support and affordability

“The cost of pilot training holds back many prospective pilots,” Jainita points out. “On average, you are going to be paying around $110,000 for your pilot training. What is exciting is that today there are more options for financing your pilot training. These range from airlines covering some of your costs, to loans and scholarships from flight schools.”

There are multiple airlines who offer financial support. British Airways’ Speedbird Pilot Academy offers total funding for selected students who then go on to work for the airline. In the US, the likes of Commute Air / United Express ($20,000), Horizon Air ($12,500), PSA Airlines ($15,000), and SkyWest ($17,500) all provide financial reimbursements for training costs. Other airlines look to remove risk for students, such as Lufthansa, which will reimburse 50% your training fees if you do not get a job in a Lufthansa Group airline within 24 months of graduating. Flight schools also offer a range of financial options. These include loans to cover most of the fees after an initial down payment, (as offered at Lufthansa’s European Flight Academy ) or options to split training into modules so the upfront costs are lower (provided in the UK at L3Harris Flight Academy) . L3Harris also offers selected scholarships.

Pilot training opportunity 2: diversity and inclusion

“Increasing diversity and inclusion in pilot training is another way the industry is tapping into new talent pools,” says Jainita. “Key first steps for flight schools are to pay attention to unconscious biases, provide role models and mentors for students from underrepresented groups, and think carefully about different learning styles,” argues Jainita.

“Then financial assistance is vital, and many airlines and associations are taking positive steps in this area.” Initiatives like JetBlue’s Fly Like a Girl , the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals’ ACE Academy and the Urban Youth Flight Foundation are introducing young people from diverse backgrounds to piloting as a potential profession.

“Then when it comes to flight training itself, airlines and flight schools are improving access,” Jainita points out. The United Aviate Academy by United Airlines is a leading example. In partnership with JPMorgan Chase, the airline is offering $2.4 million in scholarships via associations like Women in Aviation International, the Latino Pilots Association, the National Gay Pilots Association, and many others. It aims to train 5,000 new pilots through the school, with at least 50% of them women. DELTA’s Propel Collegiate Pilot Career Path Program is another positive example, while Alaska Airlines has partnered with association Sisters of the Skies.

Pilot training opportunity 3: advanced technology

“Remote training can improve inclusion too,” Jainita comments. “Relocation, rent and living costs are a significant financial burden for students, so even a few weeks of remote training can make a big difference.” This is precisely what the Native American Aviation Association is offering to Native American students in partnership with online flight schools.

“Technologies like VR and AI can accelerate and optimize the learning process, which again means lower total expenditure for students,” comments Jainita. For example, Embry-Riddle Aeronautics University uses a customized VR platform for students to practice tasks like preflight inspections, maneuvers, and radio communications. Students who have used this VR platform are progressing more quickly through their in-plane training. And IBM’s FlightSmart tool uses AI to monitor over 4,000 variables in flight simulators and then analyze the data to provide precise, actionable feedback. “Combining VR with AI has exciting potential. It can provide immersive training, while monitoring trainees’ and providing detailed feedback,” comments Jainita. “Overall, these technologies can save students time and money.”

No time like the present

“In light of these 3 opportunities, my tip to students is to have high expectations and really search around for the best pilot training packages,” concludes Jainita. “Whether it is new technologies, new inclusion initiatives or improved financial aid, airlines, flight schools and governments are all invested in increasing the number of pilots available. At Aerviva, we are continuously working on collaboration opportunities with training providers around the world who offer high-quality and affordable training. We are committed to being part of the solution, and to finding the right options for our students.”

Source: Aerviva

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