Market Intelligence: North America

Flight Simulator Manufacturer Unveils New Virtual Reality VR Flight Simulator for Helicopter and Fixed-Wing Pilot Training

TRU Simulation announced on February 27 a new, cutting-edge Veris™ Virtual Reality (VR) Flight Simulator that provides helicopter and fixed-wing model customers with a more cost-effective and innovative solution to accomplish pilot training. Unveiled during this week’s HAI Heli-Expo, the Veris simulator is a clean-sheet design that combines industry-leading features of a full flight simulator (FFS) with immersive virtual reality technology to empower pilots to navigate the skies confidently. Equally exciting is that Bell Training Academy (BTA) has been named the launch customer and will be the first to use the Veris simulator for training on the Bell 505 helicopter later this year.

TRU Simulation + Training Inc., an affiliate of Textron Aviation Inc., is a Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) company that designs, manufactures and delivers high-fidelity training devices and full-motion simulators for civil and defense customers.

“TRU is dedicated to advancing simulation technology through innovation. The Veris offers the benefits of a full flight simulator experience in a compact, cost-effective and pioneering design,” said Jerry Messaris, vice president and general manager, TRU Simulation. “Furthermore, due to its innovative clean-sheet design and focus on efficiency, the manufacturing process for this simulator is highly streamlined. We eagerly anticipate the enthusiastic reception of this groundbreaking new category of simulators by the BTA, rotorcraft and fixed-wing communities.”

The Veris VR Flight Simulator is designed to meet both FAA flight training device level 7 and EASA flight training device level 3  standards. Certification activities with both FAA and EASA are in process.

“The Bell Training Academy is honored to be the official launch customer for the Veris VR Flight Simulator for the Bell 505 and provide advanced training solutions to the aircraft’s growing customer base,” said Chad Sparks, general manager, Bell Training Academy. “Our world-renowned institution aims to deliver the most comprehensive maintenance and flight training for Bell customers, and we’re excited to collaborate with TRU Simulation, another Textron business unit, to support Bell’s global network.”

The Veris simulator includes a fully electric six degrees-of-freedom motion base to produce accurate flight cues and vibrations. It also features TRU’s REALFeel control loading system, providing the same realistic flight control sensations found in its level D full flight simulators. Tactile cockpit panels allow the pilot to interact with the aircraft switches and avionics just as they would in the aircraft. Finally, a VR headset replaces the traditional visual system, immersing the pilot into the flight environment.

The Veris offers state-of-the-art simulator components, including:

  • TRU’s new Image Generator, powered by Unreal Engine®
  • Electric six degrees-of-freedom motion base
  • Custom modeled airports
  • Varjo VR/MR headset
  • Digital electric control loading system
  • Newly designed Instructor Operating System
  • Qualification test guide testing
  • Remote instructor control unit
  • Lesson plan and debrief systems (optional)

TRU Simulation is an industry leader in developing advanced, high-fidelity full flight simulators and flight training devices. TRU’s new Veris VR Flight Simulator will leverage the same flight data, software baselines and advanced technologies used in its top-end level D FFS to produce an identical great experience in a virtual world, which brings a higher level of fidelity and accessibility to simulator devices. The device is designed to accommodate multiple rotorcraft and fixed-wing aircraft types.

About TRU Simulation

TRU Simulation + Training Inc., an affiliate of Textron Aviation Inc., is a leading provider of high-fidelity training devices and full-motion simulators for the aviation industry. With a strong commitment to excellence and innovation, TRU Simulation has been at the forefront of flight simulation technology for over a decade. Our customized simulator solutions empower pilots to navigate the skies confidently, while our state-of-the-art technology ensures safe and realistic training experiences.

About Textron Aviation      

We inspire the journey of flight. For more than 95 years, Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. company, has empowered our collective talent across the Beechcraft, Cessna and Hawker brands to design and deliver the best aviation experience for our customers. With a range that includes everything from business jets, turboprops, and high-performance pistons, to special mission, military trainer and defense products, Textron Aviation has the most versatile and comprehensive aviation product portfolio in the world and a workforce that has produced more than half of all general aviation aircraft worldwide. Customers in more than 170 countries rely on our legendary performance, reliability and versatility, along with our trusted global customer service network, for affordable and flexible flight.     

About Textron Inc.     

Textron Inc. is a multi-industry company that leverages its global network of aircraft, defense, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell, Cessna, Beechcraft, Pipistrel, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Arctic Cat, Textron Systems, and TRU Simulation.

Source: TRU Simulation
Photo Credit: TRU Simulation

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Aviation Distance Learning Provider, CPaT, Welcomes Steve Dennis as Vice President of Training Design

CPaT Global, the world’s leading provider of distance learning for the airline and aviation industry, announced the appointment of Steve Dennis as the new Vice President of Training Design. With over two decades of experience in aviation training and organizational leadership, Steve brings a wealth of knowledge to CPaT’s team.

“We are thrilled to welcome Steve to CPaT as our new Vice President of Training Design,” said Dave Rapley, President and CEO, CPaT Global. “His expertise and strategic vision will be instrumental in advancing our mission to provide world-class aviation training solutions to our global clientele. Steve will be responsible for spearheading the development of innovative training strategies and solutions tailored to meet the evolving needs of the aviation industry such as Competency Based Training and Assessment, and beyond.”

Prior to joining CPaT, Steve served as the Director of Training Design at CAE, where he played a pivotal role in shaping the training landscape within a highly technical and regulatory-intensive environment. His track record of success in driving positive change and optimizing organizational performance makes him a valuable addition to CPaT’s leadership team.

Steve’s appointment underscores CPaT’s commitment to delivering advanced and reliable solutions to airlines and training organizations around the world. His leadership will further strengthen CPaT’s position as a trusted partner in aviation training.

About CPaT

CPaT Global, LLC (CPaT) is the market leader in distance learning for the aviation industry. CPaT delivers software-as-a-service applications to more than 350 global aviation customers, serving 200,000+ individual training users each year. CPaT pioneered the use of distance learning in aviation training 30 years ago and has built on that legacy to offer new and imaginative training solutions that are practical, forward-looking, and invaluable. CPaT transforms aviation instruction by providing smart training solutions, with in-depth content and interactive courseware spanning aircraft systems, general subjects, and operational procedures.

Source: CPaT
Photo Credit: CPaT

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Global Pilot Training Group AeroGuard Flight Training Center Selected by Air India to Train Pilots for the Airline’s Fly High Cadet Pilot Program

AeroGuard Flight Training Center, a renowned global leader in professional ab initio flight training, is proud to announce its selection by Air India to train the Indian flag carrier’s student pilots within its Fly High Cadet Pilot Program. This agreement demonstrates a significant milestone for AeroGuard and Air India as the two organizations share a commitment to high quality flight training and supporting the growing airline industry in India.

Within this new partnership, AeroGuard will train the next generation of pilots for Air India through a custom-developed course where students will obtain FAA licenses ready for DGCA conversion. Through AeroGuard’s high-quality curriculum, experienced instructors, expansive training facilities and capacity, AeroGuard will play a pivotal role in supporting the world class airline’s aggressive growth plans. Following Air India recruitment and screening, pilot cadets will complete Ground School in India before training at AeroGuard’s flagship Phoenix, Arizona campus that offers an ideal flight training environment with 350+ VFR days a year, extensive local airspace, and consistent student support.

To support this high demand for its training, AeroGuard has been expanding its capacity and plans to train up to 2,000 student pilots across its three U.S. campuses. As part of this growth, AeroGuard recently placed a 90 aircraft order with Piper Aircraft, significantly increasing their current fleet of 100 planes, alongside plans to add a further 25 planes throughout 2024. Additionally, AeroGuard maintains a current population of 200+ instructors, with an additional 600+ U.S. students training to be instructors, as part of their path to 1,500 Hours for airline employment in the U.S..

AeroGuard Flight Training Center’s CEO, Joel Davidson stated, “AeroGuard is honored to be selected by Air India as their preferred flight training provider for their Cadet Pilot Program. This partnership not only validates our commitment to delivering exceptional training for leading airlines worldwide, but also demonstrates our dedication to supporting the growth of the aviation industry in India. AeroGuard is excited to contribute to the success of Air India’s future pilots and establish long and successful careers for hundreds of student pilots.”

As a leading airline in the rapidly expanding travel industry in India, this is a significant leap towards ensuring a consistent skilled pool of next-generation cadets and bridging the First Officer gap. By partnering with institutions like AeroGuard, Air India seeks to maintain stringent quality standards for cadet training while proactively securing future talent pipelines.  Embracing its role as a pivotal player in India’s thriving travel industry, Air India has embarked on a transformative journey. As the airline gears up for expansion, the demand for skilled pilots is poised to surge. AeroGuard’s distinguished curriculum has been meticulously crafted to equip cadet pilots with the requisite skills, knowledge, and confidence to fulfill Air India’s ambitious plans.

About AeroGuard Flight Training Center

AeroGuard Flight Training Center is a global leader in ab initio flight training with three U.S. campuses. Each location offers accelerated commercial pilot training programs to candidates from all over the world. With a commitment to safety and student success, AeroGuard’s high quality training has established airline-ready cadets for over 20 years with more than one million flight hours of training experience and graduating over 7,000 cadets.

About Air India

Founded by the legendary JRD Tata, Air India pioneered India’s aviation sector. Since its first flight on October 15, 1932, Air India has built an extensive domestic network with non-stop flights to cities around the world, across the USA, Canada, UK, Europe, Far-East, South-East Asia, Australia, and the Gulf. After 69 years as a government-owned enterprise, Air India and Air India Express were welcomed back into the Tata group in January 2022.

Air India is navigating through a major five-year transformation roadmap under the aegis of Vihaan.AI, with an ambition to become a world class airline with an Indian heart. The first phase of this transformation, the taxi phase was recently concluded, and focused on fixing the basics. These included bringing back to service many long grounded aircraft, addition of talent across flying and ground functions, rapid upgradation of technology and strengthening of customer care initiatives amongst others. A member of Star Alliance, the largest global airline consortium of leading international airlines, Air India offers seamless connectivity and facilities to passengers all over the world.

Source: AeroGuard Flight Training Center
Photo Credit: AeroGuard Flight Training Center

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