Market Intelligence: -Suppliers

Malaysia’s MAB Academy Selects CAE to Deliver a New Boeing 737MAX Full-Flight Simulator

Malaysia – CAE announced the signing of an agreement for the delivery of a state-of-the-art Boeing 737MAX full-flight simulator (FFS) to MAB Academy, the training and development arm of Malaysia Airlines Group (MAG). This new agreement reinforces a relationship that spans almost two decades of collaboration, innovation, and shared dedication to elevating pilot training standards. The new Boeing 737MAX FFS, which will be deployed at MAB Academy’s new flight simulator building in Sepang, is scheduled to be ready for training in July 2026, enhancing its training capacity and world-class capabilities.

“Malaysia Airlines has been a valued partner since 2008, and we’re proud to support their continued growth with the delivery of this new Boeing 737MAX full-flight simulator,” said Michel Azar-Hmouda, Division President, Commercial Aviation. “This simulator reflects our shared commitment to safety, innovation, and training excellence. According to our 2025 Aviation Talent Forecast, 98,000 new commercial pilots will be needed in the Asia Pacific region over the next 10 years, and CAE is committed to working with airline partners like Malaysia Airlines to train the next generation of pilots.”

Datuk Captain Izham Ismail, Group Managing Director of MAG said, “We are pleased to strengthen our long-standing partnership with CAE through the addition of this state-of-the-art Boeing 737-8 full-flight simulator. As we continue to expand our fleet and enhance our operational excellence, this investment underscores our commitment to safety, innovation, and continuous improvement in pilot training, while strengthening our role as a leading, trusted aviation training centre. The new simulator will elevate our in-house capabilities at MAB Academy, enabling us to deliver world-class training that meets the highest global standards while supporting the growth of our next generation of pilots.”

This announcement coincides with the visit of the Prime Minister of Canada, the Right Honourable Mark Carney, to Malaysia for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit. His presence underscores Canada’s commitment to strengthening international partnerships and supporting Canadian innovation abroad.

“We would like to thank Prime Minister Carney for visiting CAE’s training centre in Kuala Lumpur. His steadfast support for Canadian businesses like CAE highlights the vital role that Canadian-developed technologies, including our advanced flight simulators, play in enhancing aviation safety worldwide,” added Mr. Azar-Hmouda.

The new Boeing 737MAX FFS is equipped with the CAE Prodigy Image Generator (IG), which leverages Epic Games’ Unreal Engine to deliver a highly realistic and effective training experience. This advanced technology enables photorealistic visuals and dynamic motion modeling, creating a deeply immersive environment that enhances pilot preparedness and operational confidence.

In addition to the new B737MAX FFS, Malaysia Airlines also operates an ATR 72-500 FFS and an A330 NEO FFS, which was certified in September 2025, strengthening the Academy’s capacity to meet increasing training requirements.

Together, CAE and MAB Academy have built a robust training infrastructure, aligning with evolving industry demands while maintaining best-in-class safety and efficiency. With advanced simulation technology and regional training centres in Kuala Lumpur and across the region, CAE continues to deliver the expertise and capacity needed to meet evolving industry demands.

About Malaysia Aviation Group
Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) is a global aviation organisation comprising three core business portfolios: Airlines, Loyalty & Travel Services, and Aviation Services. The Airlines portfolio serves global, domestic, and segmented markets through Malaysia Airlines – the national carrier; Firefly and MASwings – regional airlines focused on connecting communities across Malaysia; and Amal by Malaysia Airlines – the leading one-stop pilgrimage travel solutions centre.The Aviation Services portfolio offers a full suite of capabilities, including maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), cargo and logistics, ground handling, and training. This includes MAB Engineering; MASkargo – a one-stop cargo and logistics provider; AeroDarat Services – a comprehensive ground handling solutions provider; and MAB Academy – a centre of excellence for aviation and hospitality training.

About CAE
At CAE, we exist to make the world safer. We deliver cutting-edge training, simulation, and critical operations solutions to prepare aviation professionals and defence forces for the moments that matter. Every day, we empower pilots, cabin crew, maintenance technicians, airlines, business aviation operators, and defence and security personnel to perform at their best and when the stakes are the highest. Around the globe, we’re everywhere customers need us to be with approximately 13,000 employees at around 240 sites and training locations in over 40 countries. For nearly 80 years, CAE has been at the forefront of innovation, consistently seeking to set the standard by delivering excellence in high-fidelity flight simulators and training solutions, while embedding sustainability at the heart of everything we do. By harnessing technology and enhancing human performance, we strive to be the trusted partner in advancing safety and mission readiness—today and tomorrow.

Source: CAE

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Italy’s Professional Aviation Expands Fleet with 3 New Tecnam Aircraft

Italy – Professional Aviation, one of the largest flight training organisations in the country, has expanded its training fleet with the delivery of three new Tecnam aircraft — two single-engine P2008JC and one multi-engine P2006T NG — reinforcing its commitment to continuous investment in pilot training capacity.

Earlier in the month Professional Aviation welcomed the final class of the year, inducting 40 new students into its pilot training programme.

Professional Aviation achieved 16,000 flight hours in 2024 and launched a new helicopter academy, expanding its training portfolio.

Curious to hear more about Professional Aviation – check out the interview with AFM here: Growing to Become One of the Largest Flight Schools in Italy – Professional Aviation Academy – AFM.aero

Source:  Professional Aviation

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ELITE Simulation Solutions Delivers Convertible Diamond DA-40/DA-42 FAA AATD Flight Training Device to Nigerian College of Aviation Technology

Nigeria & Switzerland –  ELITE Simulation Solutions is proud to announce the successful installation of an ELITE Diamond DA-40/DA-42 FAA convertible AATD flight training device at the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT) in Zaria, Nigeria. This milestone marks ELITE’s first Diamond DA-40/DA-42 installation in West Africa and underscores the company’s growing presence across the African continent.

Strengthening Pilot Training in Nigeria

Founded in 1964, the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology is the premier aviation training institution in Nigeria and one of the most respected in Africa. The addition of ELITE’s advanced DA-42-class simulator significantly enhances NCAT’s training capabilities by providing students, instructors, and professional pilots with a high-fidelity, certified training environment.

The new DA-42 simulator bridges theoretical instruction and real-world flight experience in a safe, efficient, and cost-effective manner, empowering NCAT to continue producing highly qualified pilots to meet the growing demands of Nigeria’s and Africa’s aviation industries.

This latest installation highlights ELITE’s commitment to supporting aviation education and infrastructure development in Africa, contributing to the expansion of regional training capacity and aviation safety standards.

Technical Highlights & Capabilities

The ELITE Diamond FAA approved DA-40/DA-42 convertible platform is engineered for realism, flexibility, and ease of installation. In fact NCAT’s technicians installed the simulators themselves after having received training at ELITE’s HQ in Zurich, Switzerland.

Key features of the installed DA-40/DA-42 Advanced Aircraft Training Device include:

  • Garmin G1000 NXi replica avionics: Provides a fully accurate avionics suite identical to that of the real aircraft.
  • Compact, modular design: Allows for transport and installation through standard doorways, ideal for various training facility layouts.
  • Immersive visual system, with small footprint
  • Simple installation

While configured as a Diamond DA-42, the simulator is convertible to a DA-40 variant, ensuring long-term adaptability for future training needs.

Complete Solutions & Ongoing Support

ELITE provided end-to-end delivery, installation support and instructions, as well as instructor training. The company will continue to provide software updates, maintenance, and re-certification services to guarantee sustained performance and regulatory compliance.

This deployment exemplifies ELITE’s dedication to delivering complete, certified, and cost-efficient flight simulation solutions for aviation academies and training centers worldwide.

“We are proud to partner with the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology, an institution that has long been at the forefront of shaping West Africa’s aviation professionals. This installation marks a significant milestone in elevating pilot training standards across Nigeria and the wider region. The invaluable support of ELITE’s trusted Nigerian representative, Mahmoud Shehu of Transtek, has been instrumental in helping us extend our flight path across West Africa.” –  Rene Huddlestone, Sales Director, ELITE Simulation Solutions

Source: ELITE Simulation Solutions
Photo Credit: ELITE Simulation Solutions

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Acron Aviation Names Craig Collins CFO, Caitlin Johnson to Lead Avionics Finance Division

Global – Acron Aviation has announced the appointment of Craig Collins as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO).

  • Craig Collins joins Acron Aviation from Elbit Systems of America, where he served as Chief Financial Officer since 2021, overseeing a $1.7 billion portfolio and more than 3,500 employees across defense, homeland security, and commercial aviation markets.

  • Collins previously held senior financial leadership roles at L3Harris Technologies and L3 Technologies, including Vice President of Finance and CFO for the Aerospace Systems Segment (with $4 billion in global revenue) and Senior Vice President and CFO for the Electronic Systems Segment (with $3 billion in annual revenue).

  • His tenure with L3 Communications encompassed multiple global divisions, including the Precision Engagement & Training Sector, where he oversaw operations supporting both defense and commercial customers.

  • Acron Aviation CEO Alan Crawford highlighted Collins’ leadership style and sector familiarity, emphasizing his alignment with the company’s values of speed, accountability, and transparency.

  • The company also announced that Caitlin Johnson will assume the position of Chief Financial Officer for Acron Aviation’s Avionics segment, reflecting continued internal leadership development within the organization.

Statement

  • “Could not be more excited to have Craig Collins join us at Acron Aviation as Chief Financial Officer,” said Alan Crawford, CEO of Acron Aviation. “Craig’s many years of A&D experience, familiarity with Acron Aviation, and hands-on, servant leadership style make him a perfect fit for us. We also all know Craig will MoveFast, OwnIt and SpeakCandidly in line with our values. I am also excited for Caitlin Johnson as she takes on the incredibly important role of CFO of our Avionics segment.”

Source: Alan Crawford (Acron Aviation)

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Cathay Flight Training Centre Welcomes New CAE Airbus A320neo Full Flight Simulator

Hong Kong – Cathay has further reinforced its commitment to safety and operational excellence with the delivery and installation of a state-of-the-art Airbus A320neo full-flight simulator at the Cathay Flight Training Centre.

This latest flight simulator is manufactured by CAE, a global leader in training and critical operations solutions for aviation. The new simulator further supports Cathay’s efforts to meet the growing demand for world-class pilot training as it embarks on a comprehensive fleet renewal and expansion plan.

The Cathay Group is investing well over HK$100 billion in its fleet, cabin and lounge products, and digital innovation to strengthen the Hong Kong international aviation hub and elevate the customer experience. This includes orders for more than 100 state-of-the-art narrowbody, regional widebody, long-haul widebody and large freighter aircraft joining the Group’s modern fleet in the coming years, with more than 30 of these being A320neo and A321neo aircraft.

Cathay held a special ceremony in Cathay House to welcome the new simulator from CAE. Cathay Chief Operations and Service Delivery Officer Alex McGowan and Cathay Director Flight Operations Captain Chris Kempis welcomed a delegation from CAE, led by Michel Azar-Hmouda, Division President, Commercial Aviation CAE, as well as special guest Captain Lawrence Wong, Chief, Flight Standard of the Civil Aviation Department for the ceremony.

Cathay’s Alex McGowan said: “Cathay and CAE have built a longstanding partnership focused on delivering high-quality training for pilots and crew, with a shared commitment to safety and operational excellence. Over the years, we have integrated a wide range of CAE training devices at our Flight Training Centre in Hong Kong. This partnership has helped Cathay to establish a state-of-the-art training environment, supporting the development of world-class aviation professionals.

“The recent addition of the A320 Neo CAE 7000XR Simulator marks another milestone in this collaboration, further strengthening Cathay’s training capabilities, advancing our training technologies, as well as nurturing future aviation talent.”

CAE’s Division President, Commercial Aviation CAE: Michel Azar-Hmouda said: “This A320 full-flight simulator marks a meaningful milestone in our collaboration with Cathay. Featuring CAE’s advanced Prodigy visual system, the device enhances training realism and supports Cathay’s commitment to operational excellence. As Cathay continues to invest in quality and commonality across its training infrastructure, CAE is proud to be a trusted partner on their journey.”

The Cathay Group’s total fleet numbers more than 230 passengers and freighter aircraft. The Group’s premium full-service airline Cathay Pacific currently operates 16 A321neo aircraft, while its low-cost carrier HK Express operates an all-Airbus fleet of more than 40 A320, A321, A320neo and A321neo aircraft.

Source: CAE

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Acron Aviation’s Skyparts and Setna iO Announce Strategic Channel Partnership to Expand Global OEM and USM Parts Distribution

Global — Skyparts, the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Trade Desk of Acron Aviation, announced a strategic channel partner agreement with Setna iO, a global leader in the distribution of used serviceable material (USM) and OEM aircraft parts.

This partnership significantly enhances Skyparts’ global reach and inventory capabilities, supporting its mission to deliver critical OEM-quality solutions with aftermarket agility to the aviation sector, blending OEM integrity with the responsiveness of the USM market.

All products purchased through this partnership come with an OEM-issued airworthiness tag and are backed by OEM warranties. This ensures full traceability and regulatory compliance, critical for customers, and provides confidence in the integrity and quality of the products.

With a focus on current-generation platforms from Boeing, Airbus, Embraer, Bombardier, and ATR, Setna iO supplies both used components through a global network of strategically located warehouses and experienced regional sales teams. This infrastructure enables responsive service and timely delivery of critical parts to operators, MROs, and lessors worldwide.

John Duff, Skyparts Operating Director, said: “This channel partnership with Setna iO creates a smarter, more responsive supply chain that puts the customer first. In an industry where time, cost, and quality are critical, we are delivering a powerful solution for customers seeking dependable serviceable material with OEM assurance.”

Setna iO’s industry-leading expertise in the acquisition and teardown of commercial airframes is another key asset in this collaboration, enabling a steady flow of high-quality USM to be integrated into the Skyparts inventory catalog.

James Roche, Senta iO SVP North America Trading said: “Setna iO is excited to announce our partnership with Skyparts and Acron Aviation, further enhancing our ability to provide high-quality tagged material to the aviation aftermarket. This agreement aligns with Setna iO’s strategic vision to expand our network of partners to better serve our customers globally.”

This agreement marks a major step in the continued growth of Acron Aviation’s Skyparts global partner network, following the successful integration of DASI in 2024. With both Setna iO and DASI on board, Skyparts has expanded geographic coverage, broader inventory access, and more flexible sourcing options for its growing customer base.

About Skyparts
Skyparts is the OEM Trade Desk of Acron Aviation, providing direct access to OEM aircraft parts and components through a network of trusted channel partners. Focused on supporting airlines, MROs, and lessors with reliable, traceable, and warrantied solutions, Skyparts combines the integrity of OEM sourcing with aftermarket agility to deliver value across the aviation industry.

Source: Acron Aviation
Photo Credit: Acron Aviation

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PHI Air Medical Becomes First Air Ambulance Operator in the Americas to Train Pilots with VR Flight Simulation—Using Loft Dynamics’ Simulator

USA — PHI Air Medical, one of the largest air ambulance providers in the United States has become the first air medical operator in the Americas to implement full-motion virtual reality (VR) flight simulation for pilot training. The company has installed a full-motion VR simulator from Loft Dynamics—the first VR system qualified by both the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA)—at its training base in Mesa, Arizona. PHI is now launching an entirely new training program centered around VR and its Airbus H125 simulator, giving pilots round-the-clock access to immersive, mission-specific training that mirrors the urgency and complexity of real-world operations.

PHI transports more than 22,500 patients each year across 82 bases nationwide, operating more than 100 helicopters and logging more than 12.5 million flight hours. With Loft Dynamics’ VR simulator now onsite, PHI has reimagined how its pilots train—enabling continuous, scenario-based practice tailored to the realities of emergency air operations.

“We fly into the unknown every day—remote crash sites, busy city centers, adverse weather, unfamiliar terrain—and we do it in service of patients who don’t have time to wait,” said Duke Baker, director of aviation operations at PHI Air Medical. “With this technology, we can safely give our pilots any mission at any time, right at our home base, and rehearse until the maneuvers become instinctive—engrained in muscle memory and reflex. And it’s not just a win for us—it’s a signal to the entire industry of what’s now possible. This technology is powerful.”

PHI instructors are building a dynamic curriculum using Loft Dynamics’ full-motion platform, complete with a 360-degree 3D cockpit, force feedback and six-degrees-of-freedom motion. Crews can now routinely train for zero-visibility landings, high-altitude rescues, nighttime operations with night vision goggles (NVGs), variable patient loads, and more.

“This is exactly where VR was meant to go,” said Fabi Riesen, founder and CEO of Loft Dynamics. “Into the hands of people flying complex, time-critical missions. PHI’s adoption of this technology shows what’s possible when training is no longer limited by geography, cost or availability. Together we’re proving that the most realistic, high-stakes scenarios can be trained for—anytime, from anywhere. This isn’t just a milestone for PHI or air medical operators—it’s a turning point for how the entire industry prepares its pilots.”

PHI is working closely with its local FAA office to integrate the Loft Dynamics simulator into its approved training program under Part 135—further demonstrating how VR can meet the rigorous standards of commercial air medical operations. These efforts are expected to set the tone for broader use of VR across the sector.

While PHI is the first to install VR simulation in an air medical training program, others are preparing to follow. Boston MedFlight signed a letter of intent earlier this year to install a Loft Dynamics H145 simulator, signaling growing momentum across the industry.

About Loft Dynamics
Loft Dynamics AG is the global leader in virtual reality (VR) flight training, and the first company with VR simulators qualified by both the FAA and EASA. Trusted by Alaska Airlines, Airbus Helicopters, the Los Angeles Police Department, and more, we serve the full aviation ecosystem—spanning commercial airlines, eVTOLs, and diverse helicopter operators, as well as schools, OEMs, governments, and regulators. Our mission is to make pilot training safer and more accessible, affordable and scalable than ever before. We produce full-motion VR simulators for helicopters, airlines, and eVTOLs that are ten times smaller and significantly more cost-effective than legacy simulators. We also provide a connected suite of solutions that integrate our simulators worldwide, including at-home training kits, virtual instruction from the world’s top pilots and AI-driven training intelligence. Loft Dynamics is leading a global paradigm shift in pilot training and powering the next generation of highly skilled pilots.

About PHI
PHI Air Medical is a leading air medical transport provider, operating over 80 air medical bases in the nation. These bases provide outreach education to local communities and healthcare systems across the nation. Safely transporting more than 22,500 patients each year, each PHI Air Medical base maintains a crew of highly trained pilots, flight nurses, and paramedics – prepared to respond to emergency medical transport requests.

Source: Loft Dynamics

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CPaT Global Announces Partnership with Avia Solutions Group to Standardize Training Across 12 AOCs Worldwide

Global – CPaT Global, a leading provider of distance learning for the airline and aviation industry, announced they have been awarded a new contract with Avia Solutions Group, the world’s largest ACMI provider.

Through this agreement, CPaT will deliver Aircraft Systems, General Subjects, and Safety Courses for Cabin Crew training across Avia Solutions Group’s 12 Air Operator Certificates (AOCs). The partnership will strengthen standardization and elevate training quality throughout the Group, ensuring consistent, high-quality instruction across all operations.

“Partnering with Avia Solutions Group reflects CPaT’s commitment to supporting aviation leaders with scalable and effective training solutions,” said Capt. Greg Darrow, Vice President of Sales. “This agreement provides a strong foundation for standardized training across a global organization with extensive operational reach.”

Source: CPaT

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