Market Intelligence: North America

US Regional Operator CommuteAir Integrates Visionary Training Resources VR Headset in Train the Trainers Course

USA – CommuteAir has partnered with Visionary Training Resources (VTR) to introduce FlightDeckToGo virtual reality (VR) headsets for aircraft familiarization training. The airline recently conducted a “train the trainers” session to integrate the new technology into its pilot training programs.

In January 2024 VTR had established a formal relationship with CommuteAir, a leading regional airline operating as United Express. This expansive partnership incorporates the world’s most advanced training technology into the pilot training curriculum at CommuteAir. VTR’s proprietary FlightDeckToGoⓇ provides current and future CommuteAir aviators with an unparalleled training experience.

The partnership agreement began with Embraer ERJ145 ground-based procedural flows. CommuteAir spent more than two years reviewing VR opportunities and the past year incorporating VR into an AQP training footprint. CommuteAir expects to train hundreds of pilots, beginning with flight deck flows for initial training.

CommuteAir flight training is focused on providing industry leading training using the most advanced technologies to develop the safest and best-trained pilot workforce in the industry. Lance Lau, CommuteAir’s Director of Flight Crew Training, said in 2024 “VTR’s virtual reality headsets and handsets will enhance our current training program for the more than 200 pilots we’re hiring annually by enabling them to familiarize themselves with our aircraft’s cockpit using a realistic simulation. CommuteAir trainees will practice flight deck orientation, flows, and procedures with the assistance of the VTR’s virtual instructor and eye-tracking features.”

Source: CommuteAir
Photo Credit: CommuteAir

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Flightdeck Solutions Teases 2025 A320 Fixed Training Device Launch with Existing Customer

Canada – headquartered flight simulator manufacturer Flightdeck Solutions, Ltd. (FDS) has teased the upcoming launch of a new A320 Fixed Training Device (FTD). The device has been ordered by AviaSim.

In 2023 AviaSim, which offers tailor-made simulation experience for pilots, acquired its second Flightdeck Solutions’ A320 Flight Training Device (FDS-A320-FTD) for its training center at Delta Hotels by Marriott Montreal in Canada.

Source: Flightdeck Solutions, Ltd.
Photo Credit: Flightdeck Solutions, Ltd.

 

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US Regulator to Update Part 141 Pilot School Regulations – Seeks Industry Input in 2025

Washington D.C., USA – The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced a public meeting and request for comments on the modernization of pilot schools under Part 141 regulations. The initiative aims to update training regulations to align with modern technological advancements and evolving industry needs.

  • The FAA is initiating public engagement on the modernization of Part 141 regulations through a series of meetings, beginning with a virtual session on March 6, 2025.
  • The initiative seeks to address outdated training regulations that have roots in early pilot training practices and the Civil Air Regulations.
  • The FAA emphasizes that updates should support 21st-century challenges related to technology, safety, and advancements in training methodologies.
  • The National Flight Training Alliance (NFTA) has been named co-chair of the initiative, raising industry discussions about the potential influence of large-scale training providers in shaping the regulatory updates.
  • The Flight School Association of North America (FSANA) has urged all flight training stakeholders to participate in the process to ensure that all perspectives are considered.
  • The FAA is requesting written comments on the proposed modernization efforts, with a submission deadline of March 21, 2025.

The FAA said: “The process of licensing or certification of pilot schools in the United States is approaching 100 years of existence. Although the FAA has revised certain regulatory requirements pertaining to pilot schools during this time, part 141 still has many foundational ties to Civil Air Regulations (CAR) part 50, which was implemented in the 1940s. Regulations for pilot schools are typically promulgated to improve safety, reduce aircraft accidents, and embrace changes such as advances in technology and the need for data collection and analysis. Modernizing part 141 would address challenges pertaining to certification, certification management, examining authority, and evolving technology and learning methods. The FAA’s objective of modernizing part 141 is to increase safety and create a foundation for a more structured training environment to aid in the reduction of general aviation accidents and fatalities.

Therefore, part 141 must be analyzed to determine how it can evolve with the changing aviation industry. Over the course of the project, the FAA is seeking engagement from the flight training industry through participation in public meetings and submitted comments. Collaboration within the industry is encouraged to stimulate the innovation of a modern part 141 that will serve the needs of current and future pilot schools, as well as provide a robust and safe training environment that instills the necessary knowledge, skills, critical thinking, and aeronautical decision making in its pilots to create a safer national airspace system.”

See the FAA announcement here.

Source: FAA

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Flight Training Industry Vendors Set to Showcase Products at 2025 Flight School Operators Conference

Orlando, USA – The 2025 Flight School Operators Conference is set to host a diverse lineup of vendors and exhibitors, offering attendees a unique opportunity to engage directly with key suppliers and service providers in the flight training industry. These companies play a vital role in advancing aviation training through innovative products, services, and solutions that enhance efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and safety.

  • Notable companies exhibiting at the event include:
    • Aircraft Wheel and Brake
    • Aircraft Engine Specialist
    • Aircraft Spruce & Specialty
    • Alsim
    • Ameravia, Inc.
    • AOPA
    • Assured Partners Aerospace
    • Aviation Conversations
    • Aviatize
    • Avemco
    • Airplane Sim Solutions
    • Cirrus Aircraft
    • Collegiate Housing Services
    • David Clark Company
    • Delta Hawk Engines
    • FlightLogger
    • Flight Schedule Pro
    • FlightSchools4Sale.com
    • Flight Sim Wings
    • Flycore
    • ForeFlight
    • Four Forces
    • FRASCA
    • Garmin International
    • Gleim Aviation
    • Gold Seal Ground Schools
    • Kore Headset
    • Lightspeed Aviation
    • Lycoming Engines
    • NATA Compliance Services
    • NAFI
    • PlaneEnglish
    • Piedmont Airlines
    • Private-Radar
    • Right Rudder Marketing
    • Rotax Engines
    • Skybound
    • Simbird by Montauk Systems
    • Southern AeroMedical Institute
    • Southern Cross Aviation
    • Sporty’s
    • Stratus Financial
    • Symbiotics
    • Talon Systems LLC
    • The DTSB, Inc.
    • Travers Aviation Insurance
    • Tecnam
    • Textron Aviation
    • UpskillAir
    • Virgin Experience Gifts
    • Wings Leasing

Source: FSANA
Photo Credit: FSANA

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US Flight Training Group SEG Expands with New 2025 Satellite Training Base and Deployed AATD

DeKalb, Illinois, USA – Illinois Aviation Academy (IAA), home to the Atlas Cadet Academy, has announced the opening of a new satellite flight training base at DeKalb Taylor Municipal Airport (KDKB). The expansion aims to enhance accessibility to professional pilot training in Illinois while strengthening the pipeline for future Atlas Air first officers.

  • The new training location will feature an FAA-approved Advanced Training Device (ATD) to support instrument training under IAA’s FAA Part 141 program.
  • The expansion aligns with IAA’s mission to provide high-quality flight training for both recreational and professional pilot candidates.
  • Enrollment is now open for the Atlas Air Academy, designed to prepare pilots for potential first officer positions at Atlas Air, one of the world’s largest Boeing 747 operators serving both cargo and passenger markets.
  • The academy is operated by Spartan Education Group.

Statement:

“This expansion aligns with IAA’s mission to make quality flight training accessible and streamlined for aspiring recreational and professional pilots across Illinois.” – Robert Werderich, Executive Vice President of Flight Operations, Spartan Education Group. 

Source: Illinois Aviation Academy
Photo Credit: Illinois Aviation Academy

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Flight Training Financing Provider Stratus Financial Welcomes Scott Schondau as Chief Financial Officer

USA – Stratus Financial LLC, a leading provider of financing solutions for student pilots, is pleased to announce the appointment of Scott Schondau as the company’s new Chief Financial Officer (CFO). This strategic addition to the leadership team further reinforces Stratus Financial’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge financial solutions while positioning the company for long-term success.

“Scott’s appointment as Chief Financial Officer represents a significant step forward for Stratus Financial,” said Anthony Geraci, CEO of Stratus Financial. “With over two decades of experience in finance, capital markets, and strategic financial management, Scott brings a wealth of expertise that will be invaluable as we continue to scale and expand our business. His proven ability to develop and execute sophisticated financial strategies, coupled with his leadership in optimizing financial operations, will play a critical role in enhancing our organizational efficiency and driving sustainable growth. Scott’s experience in managing complex financial portfolios and mentoring high-performing teams aligns perfectly with our vision for Stratus’s future. We are confident that his leadership will be instrumental in helping us navigate the next phase of our growth while continuing to deliver value to our customers, investors, and stakeholders.”

Brandon Martini, COO of Stratus Financial noted, “As we grow our portfolio and further refine our offerings in the flight school loan market, Scott’s expertise in financial strategy and operational optimization will be key to ensuring we maintain a solid financial foundation. He has a proven track record of driving significant growth, improving financial processes, and enhancing organizational efficiency, all of which will contribute to our ability to execute on our long-term vision. We are confident that with Scott at the helm of our financial strategy, Stratus will not only maintain its competitive edge but will continue to set new standards in the industry for financial excellence and customer-centric innovation.”

Throughout his 25 year+ professional career, he has held Managing Director and similar roles at prestigious financial firms such as J.P. Morgan/Bear, Stearns, Deutsche Bank and Guggenheim. Most recently, he was CFO for an auto finance & loan servicing company and an EVP, partner and advisory board member for a private equity firm.

“I am both honored and excited to join Stratus Financial as Chief Financial Officer,” said Scott Schondau, Chief Financial Officer at Stratus Financial. “Stratus has established itself as a leader in providing innovative financial solutions to students pursuing careers in aviation, and I look forward to contributing to this mission. With over two decades of experience in finance and capital markets, I am committed to strengthening the company’s financial infrastructure and ensuring we maintain our position of leadership in the flight school loan sector. By improving financial processes, optimizing operational efficiencies, and driving strategic initiatives, my goal is to support Stratus’s continued growth and success as we expand our offerings and enhance our impact on the aviation industry. I’m eager to collaborate with the talented leadership team to further elevate Stratus as we help more aspiring pilots achieve their dreams.”

As CFO, Scott will oversee Stratus Financial’s financial operations, working alongside the executive team to refine financial strategies, streamline internal processes, and maintain a high standard of financial integrity across all functions. His leadership will be instrumental in ensuring Stratus continues to meet the evolving needs of students pursuing careers in aviation.

Source: Stratus Financial
Photo Credit: Stratus Financial

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