Market Intelligence: -Suppliers

Leading Provider of Fire Trainers Flame Aviation Installs New Fire Trainer for Cathay Pacific

Hong Kong – On January 19, 2025, Flame Aviation officially launched the new V9000 Commander™ XR next-generation fire trainer at Cathay Pacific. Thanks to Cathay Pacific’s thorough preparations, the on-site acceptance went seamlessly. Following the launch, a group of instructors and technicians were trained on operating and maintaining the fire trainer.

The installation was particularly challenging because the fire trainer had to be hoisted to the seventh floor (!) of the training center and brought inside through the façade. Despite these complexities, the operation was completed successfully.

This is the second V9000 Commander™ in Hong Kong since Hong Kong Airlines has one in operation since 2019 and is installed on the rooftop of the eleven story high HKA headquarters. This new device offers Cathay Pacific all possible inflight fire scenarios, something this state-of-the-art fire trainer is specifically designed for.

Flame Aviation is recognized as the industry standard in fire trainers, making it the preferred choice for airlines and training centers worldwide. The sophisticed, high-quality and reliable fire trainers are trusted globally to deliver effective and realistic fire training.

Source: Flame Aviation
Photo Credit: Flame Aviation

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UK Veterans’ Flying School Wings4Warriors Takes Off in 2025

Staverton, UK – Wings4Warriors, a UK military charity, has launched a dedicated flight training centre for veterans at Gloucestershire Airport. The Veterans’ Flying School was officially opened by HRH The Princess Royal on 16 January 2025 and will train veterans as professional pilots on a not-for-profit basis.

The ceremony, also attended by His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Gloucestershire, Mr. Edward Gillespie, began with an introduction by Gloucestershire Airport’s Managing Director, Jason Ivey, and Mark Radcliffe, Founder of Wings for Warriors. Her Royal Highness toured the facility, observing a lesson in progress, speaking with instructors and students, and meeting key supporters, trustees and veterans who have benefited from the programme.

Wings4Warriors was founded in 2012 after founder Mark Radcliffe, then a flight instructor, met an amputee Royal Marine with dreams of becoming a commercial pilot. Since then, the charity has supported more than 30 veterans into aviation careers, including former Royal Engineer Sam Taylor, severely injured in Afghanistan, and now flying for a major UK airline.

“Having our own charitable training school is a game changer. It allows us to significantly reduce the financial burden of commercial pilot training, with fees around 40% of the standard cost. This makes us an excellent prospect for airlines seeking to partner with an innovative cadet programme as an intelligent solution to their recruitment needs. We also have support from leading industry training partners, including Padpilot and Private Radar, so we’re able to deliver a learning experience which is second to none. The net result is a newly qualified First Officer who brings real-world experience, and a work ethic rarely found elsewhere,” said Mark Radcliffe.

The Veterans’ Flying School is an Approved Training Organisation (ATO), offering veterans a pathway to training as airline pilots pro bono. This has been made possible by the generous support of key stakeholders including the CABWI Awarding Body, Armed Forces Covenant Trust and Veterans’ Foundation. The school aims to train 6-10 veterans every 18 months.

“It’s the least we can do for those who’ve given so much for our freedom. Nothing brings the Padpilot team greater joy than to be able to support these incredible people into the air through the VFS,” said Nathan Gray, CEO of Padpilot and former Royal Navy Commander.

“We are incredibly proud to be home to the Veterans’ Flying School and we look forward to seeing these individuals soar in their new endeavours,” said Jason Ivey, Managing Director, Gloucestershire Airport

The event concluded with the unveiling of the plaque and a touching moment when The Princess Royal was presented with a posy by Mr. Radcliffe’s young daughters, Molly and Emma.

About Wings 4 Warriors
Wings4Warriors is a UK registered charity (no. 1148093) that provides wounded, injured, or sick service men and women with a future worth fighting for by training them as professional pilots. W4W offers a range of programs designed to address the physical, psychological, and economic needs of veterans and their families.

About Private Radar
Private Radar flight school management software serves over a hundred flight schools and aero clubs in more than 30 countries, helping them manage operations and enhance safety protocols.

About Padpilot
Padpilot creates digital teaching and learning resources for pilot training. Their digital courseware enables training providers to deliver comprehensive, engaging ground school for student pilots during the theoretical knowledge phase of training. 

About Gloucestershire Airport
Gloucestershire Airport is a thriving general aviation airport and offers a range of services including flight training, aircraft maintenance, and business charter. The airport is committed to supporting the local community and promoting aviation as a career path.

Source: Wings4Warriors
Photo Credit: Wings4Warriors

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US Aviation Academy Founder Mike Sykes to Join AeroSummit 2025 Panel

Las Vegas, Nevada, USA – AeroSummit 2025, powered by Stratus Financial, will take place at the Wynn Las Vegas from May 21-22, 2025, with Demo Day scheduled for May 23. This event brings together aviation professionals to explore key industry topics, network with peers, and experience cutting-edge aviation technology firsthand.

AeroSummit 2025 shared that Mike Sykes, founder of the US Aviation Academy, will join AeroSummit 2025 as a panelist.

AeroSummit 2025 Panel Topics:

  • Own or Partner? Navigating Maintenance Partnerships in Aviation
    • Explore strategies to manage maintenance costs, foster partnerships, and ensure operational excellence with insights from industry leaders.
  • Taking Flight: Strategies for Operating a Successful Flight School Business
    • Learn the essentials of running a thriving flight school, from compliance and student recruitment to fleet management and growth strategies.
  • The Sky’s the Limit: Leasing vs. Owning an Aircraft
    • Understand the financial and operational impacts of leasing vs. owning aircraft to make informed decisions for your fleet.
  • Insights into Aviation Insurance
    • Gain expert advice on navigating aviation insurance, covering risk assessment, cost mitigation, and regulatory compliance.
  • Flight School Masterminds: Scaling Success
    • Connect with flight school operators to share strategies for growth, efficiency, and student retention at any scale.
  • Elevating Education: Insights from Flight School Experts
    • Discover best practices in curriculum development, instructor training, and technology integration to enhance aviation education.
  • Nurturing Tomorrow’s Aviators: Mentorship and Career Readiness
    • Tackle key issues like mentorship and career preparation to help students succeed in training and airline careers.
  • Insights from the Airlines
    • Dive into the latest airline trends and innovations, gaining strategic perspectives from top industry professionals.
  • Stop the Drain: Identifying and Removing Struggling Students Early
    • Discover strategies to quickly identify students who may not succeed, minimizing resource drain and optimizing graduation rates. Learn how to refine your screening process, implement early interventions, and maintain a streamlined schedule that benefits both staff and students.

All Inclusive Aerosummit Experience:

  • 3 meals and 2-all inclusive receptions with appetizers and open bar
  • 5 scheduled networking opportunities: connect with aviation professionals during five scheduled networking sessions
  • Exhibit hall: explore cutting edge aviation technology and meet industry leaders

Event Highlights:

  • Student & CFI Track: Now Open for Registration
    • AeroSummit is excited to introduce a new educational track at this year’s conference designed specifically for flight school students and Certified Flight Instructors (CFIs). These “Roundtables” will feature in-depth discussions on topics directly relevant to aspiring pilots and instructors, hosted by industry experts and aviation trade organizations. These sessions will provide valuable insights and practical advice, fostering a collaborative learning environment outside of the main panels focused on flight school owners.
  • Special Discounts for Students and CFIs
    • Take advantage of heavily discounted tickets exclusively for students and CFIs! Share this opportunity with your team and students to ensure they don’t miss out. Contact us today to receive your exclusive discount codes and secure access to this incredible event.
  • Demo Day Update: Get Ready for an Unforgettable Experience
    • AeroSummit is thrilled to share an exciting update about Demo Day on May 23rd. This hands-on experience at AeroSummit will give you an exclusive look at the latest aircraft models from top manufacturers. Whether you’re considering upgrading your flight school fleet or simply curious about thenewest aviation technology, Demo Day is the perfect opportunity to:
      • Explore the latest aircraft models from the manufacturers.
      • Book sales flights (as available) to experience performance firsthand.
      • Connect with manufacturers to ask the tough questions.

Source: Stratus Financial
Photo Credit: Stratus Financial

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Pooleys Flight Equipment to Exhibit at Pilot Expo 2025 in Brussels

Elstree, UK – Pooleys Flight Equipment, founded in 1957, is a UK headquartered, family owned and operated business, and a confirmed exhibitor at the upcoming Pilot Expo 2025 in Brussels on February 21-22, 2025. Pooleys, a highly respected name in the Aviation industry, a leading manufacturer and publisher of Aviation pilot training and flight equipment, have set the industry standard in many areas of manufacturing and publishing, not only in the UK, but globally. Pooleys equipment is currently sold to over 100 countries around the world. Excellent customer service lies at the very heart of Pooleys business, as well as an unwavering passion for Aviation which underlines everything Pooleys does. Pooleys success is not just down to its dedicated, knowledgeable and loyal team, but also to its customers – pilots, flight training organizations, dealers and enthusiasts. Much of what you see in Pooleys today is thanks to the passion and commitment of many people from around the world within our Aviation community.

  • Pooleys manufactures the world’s largest range of pilot’s kneeboards, flight boards and flight computers, the vast majority made in the UK at its wholly owned and operated manufacturing facility.
  • All Pooleys manufactured products enjoy a lifetime warranty and conform to UK Civil Aviation Authority and EASA standards.
  • Pooleys manufactured products are already used at over 95% of UK flying schools, as well as many globally, including across Europe.
  • Pooleys is able to personalize (bespoke) many Pooleys manufactured products with customer branding, i.e. flight school branding, at no additional charge.
  • Pooleys Flight Equipment EU is located in Ireland, from where it supplies EU customers hassle-free: No customs paperwork or checks, and most importantly, no additional costs incurred.

Attendees at this years’ Pilot Expo will have the opportunity to engage with the Pooleys team as it showcases its comprehensive pilot supplies program. Tens of thousands of individuals and companies across the globe trust Pooleys. Its team looks forward to meeting existing customers in Brussels next month and adding new ones to that ever-growing list.

Source: Pooleys
Photo Credit: Pooleys

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Pilot Assessment Solution Provider Symbiotics to Exhibit and Present at Pilot Expo 2025 in February

Brussels, Belgium – Symbiotics, a leading provider of human performance and aviation psychology solutions, has announced its participation in the upcoming Pilot Expo on February 21-22, 2025. The company will exhibit at stand D6 and contribute to key discussions during the event.

  • Aviation Psychologist Caroline Creane will speak in two sessions:
    • “Developing Pilot Competencies for Future Aviation Selection” in the Future Pilots stream.
    • “Aviation Psychology and the Future of Pilot Selection” in the ACES stream.
  • Pilot Expo provides a platform for Symbiotics to engage with aviation professionals, share insights, and showcase its expertise in pilot selection and competency development.
  • Symbiotics emphasizes the value of attending the event annually to stay at the forefront of industry trends and innovations.

About Symbiotics
Symbiotics, headquartered in Bristol, United Kingdom, specializes in pilot aptitude testing, aviation psychology, and human performance solutions. The company supports airlines, training organizations, and aviation professionals worldwide with tailored assessment and development programs.

Source: Symbiotics
Photo Credit: Symbiotics

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Flight Training Financing Provider Stratus Financial Appoints Sajal Agarwal as Chief Risk Officer

United States – Stratus Financial, a trusted consumer finance platform committed to providing student loans to aspiring student pilots at all levels of experience, has announced the appointment of Sajal Agarwal as its new Chief Risk Officer. With over 20 years of experience in risk management and leadership, Agarwal brings a wealth of expertise to the organization as it continues to innovate in the financial services industry.

  • Agarwal has held senior positions at leading financial institutions, including Capital One, Wells Fargo, SoFI, and SMBC (Jenius Bank).
  • His expertise includes credit risk management and consumer lending products such as student loans, personal loans, credit cards, and Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) solutions.
  • At Stratus Financial, Agarwal will focus on enhancing risk management frameworks and supporting the company’s mission to provide innovative financial solutions.

Source: Stratus Financial
Photo Credit: Stratus Financial

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Italian Flight School Introduces ALSIM ALX Simulator in 2025

Perugia, Italy – Accademia Del Volo has enhanced its pilot training capabilities in 2025 with the addition of an ALSIM ALX Simulator.

The ALSIM ALX provides up to 4 classes of aircraft from single-engine piston, twin engine piston, twin turbine up to medium category twin jet. The device is designed and approved for ATPL, CPL, and MCC in compliance with all current regulatory standards. The ALX offers advanced technology simulation equipment tailored to all specific training requirements. In addition, it has a proven track record for cost-effectiveness and helps save numerous aircraft hours.

About Accademia del Volo
Located in the center of Italy, the training center “Accademia del Volo” is madeof a passionate and aviation addict team. Certified by the ENAC, the academy offers an ATPL Modular or possibly Integrated to their students. Once they have obtained a Frozen ATPL License, they continue with their training department up to MCC/JOC with their brand new ALX. Accademia del Volo has one of the most modern fleets in Italy, fully renovated with new engines. The fleet includes two P2008 with a full glass cockpit, two PA 28, one 180 HP analog layout, and one 200 HP complex retractable landing gear with a full glass cockpit. Additionally, they have a Piper Seneca V and King Air B200 for complex and high-performance IR.

Source: Accademia Del Volo
Photo Credit: Accademia Del Volo

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Air India Flying Training Academy Places Order for Up to 93 Piper Archer DX Aircraft

USA & India – Piper Aircraft is proud to announce a new fleet agreement with the Air India Flying Training Academy. The center has placed an order for 93 Archer DX aircraft, with 31 firm orders for delivery in 2025 and 62 additional options for 2026 and 2027. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in the first quarter of 2025.

Air India’s decision to acquire the Archer DX aircraft is in line with their strategic vision to support their newly established flight training school in the city of Amravati, Maharashtra, India. This flight training school is set to become the largest aviation training facility in South Asia. This agreement also marks a significant step in Piper Aircraft’s ongoing global fleet expansion, particularly into the Asian market.

“We are excited to welcome Air India to the Piper Flight School Alliance,” stated John Calcagno, President and CEO of Piper Aircraft. “We take pride in supporting institutions like Air India by providing aircraft that are renowned for their reliability and ease of use, ensuring the success of the next generation of airline pilots.”

About Piper Aircraft
Piper Aircraft Inc., headquartered in Vero Beach, Fl., offers aviators throughout the world efficient and reliable single and twin-engine aircraft and is the first general aviation aircraft manufacturer in the world to certify Garmin® Emergency Autoland. The single-engine M-Class series – the M700 FURY, M500, and M350 – offers businesses and individuals elegant performance, value and a superior ownership experience. The Personal Class Archer LX and Archer DLX balance proven performance, efficiency, and simplicity in a piston-powered aircraft. The Trainer Class Pilot 100i, Archer TX, Archer DX, and Seminole aircraft form the most complete technically advanced line of pilot training aircraft in the world. Piper is a member of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association.

About Air India Training Academy
Air India Training Academy is a 600,000 sq ft integrated aviation training academy, the biggest of its kind in South Asia, in Gurugram, India. It aims to train 50,000 aviation professionals, including pilots, cabin crew, ground handling, engineering and security staff over the next few years. Part of the Aviation Academy’s plan is to set up flight schools in preparation for the anticipated pilot shortage. The first flight school will be located Amravati, Maharashtra.

About the Piper Archer DX
Powered by the Continental CD-155 diesel engine, the Archer DX cruises at a speed of 114 KTAS / 211 km/h (at 70% power) on only 5.8 gph / 22 kph of jet fuel. The G1000 avionics come standard and provide a great mix of low workload and high technology. The special flight school interior, and the aircraft overall, -are designed to stand up to the rigors of flight training. The Archer DX offers competitive operating economics with a proven airframe perfect for flight training organizations worldwide.

Specifications: 128 knots at 75% power maximum cruise speed, 522 nm (967 km) maximum range, service ceiling 14,100 feet (4,298 m) maximum approved altitude. Take-off distance 1,608 feet (490m), landing distance over 50-foot obstacle 1,400 feet (427m). Engine: 180 HP Lycoming I0-360-B4A with a Sensenich fixed pitch propeller.

Source: Piper Aircraft

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Flight Schedule Pro Drives Efficiency and Growth at LIFT Academy in 2025

Indiana, USA – LIFT Academy, founded in 2018 to address the pilot shortage for Republic Airways, has grown into one of the largest flight training programs in the United States, with 500 students, 70 aircraft, and 117 instructors. The academy has adopted Flight Schedule Pro to tackle the operational complexities of scaling its operations while maintaining safety, efficiency, and compliance.

“Flight Schedule Pro has been the backbone of our operations since day one. It helps us maximize aircraft utilization, track progress, and keep operations running smoothly. We wouldn’t be where we are today without it.” – Ed Bagden, Director of Operations & Academic Programs, LIFT Academy

Key Challenges Addressed:

  • Resource Utilization: Efficient scheduling of 70+ aircraft, 110+ instructors, and 500 students to minimize downtime and maximize productivity.
  • Operational Complexity: Managing daily schedules, student progress, instructor assignments, and maintenance workflows.
  • Compliance Requirements: Maintaining FAA Part 141 compliance with automated, accurate digital recordkeeping.
  • Data-Driven Decisions: Leveraging analytics to monitor fleet efficiency, student milestones, and instructor performance.
  • Scalability: Supporting the academy’s rapid growth while ensuring operational systems remain adaptable and efficient.

Solutions Delivered by Flight Schedule Pro:

  • Centralized scheduling for aircraft, simulators, and personnel, reducing conflicts and improving resource use.
  • Automated compliance tracking for FAA and TSA regulations, ensuring accurate certification and training records.
  • Real-time dashboards and analytics for fleet utilization, student progress, and operational efficiency.
  • A communication hub connecting students and instructors for streamlined daily operations.
  • Customizable tools tailored to the needs of a large-scale flight training program.

Outcomes:

  • Efficiency Gains: Enhanced decision-making through real-time data, reducing downtime and improving throughput.
  • Fleet Growth: Expanded from 35 to 70+ aircraft with improved utilization.
  • Streamlined Operations: Seamlessly managing daily activities for a growing student and instructor base.

About LIFT Academy
Based in Indianapolis, Indiana, LIFT Academy is a premier flight training organization established to provide highly qualified pilots to Republic Airways.

About Flight Schedule Pro
Flight Schedule Pro provides advanced scheduling and operational management tools for aviation training organizations, enhancing efficiency and compliance through innovative solutions.

Source: Flight Schedule Pro
Photo Credit: Flight Schedule Pro

 

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