Global Pilot Training Group and Simulator Engineering Service Provider Simaero Strengthens North Africa Ties with Tunisia

Tunisia – Simaero, a leading global independent provider of full-flight simulator training and simulator engineering services, has conducted a strategic business mission in Tunis, Tunisia, aiming to deepen its footprint in North Africa’s growing aviation training market. Amir Mekhaeil, Business Development Director at Simaero, conducted the two-day visit.

Today, I had the pleasure of meeting with some of our clients here — engaging discussions, valuable insights, and exciting opportunities for collaboration ahead. It’s always rewarding to see how strong partnerships are built on trust and shared ambitions. Looking forward to continuing these fruitful exchanges tomorrow and strengthening Simaero’s presence in this dynamic region.” stated Mr Mekhaeil.

Source: Amir Mekhaeil (Simaero)

Related Posts

Lufthansa Aviation Training and Aeroplanned Partner to Strengthen the Lufthansa Group Airline Pilot Pipeline

Global – Aeroplanned, the leading software platform dedicated to flight training planning, is pleased to announce its partnership with Lufthansa Aviation Training (LAT). Through this collaboration, Aeroplanned is proud to support LAT in strengthening and streamlining their cadet training operations at European Flight Academy (EFA), the Lufthansa Groups’ pilot school. The new partnership will help to ensure every cadet is ready for airline training, on time, to meet the growing demand for pilots.

European Flight Academy brings decades of experience in ab initio training and a strong reputation for delivering top-tier cadets to its airline partners. With training centres in Germany, Switzerland, and the United States, EFA prepares over 300 cadets annually for careers in commercial aviation.

Aeroplanned was built specifically to meet the complexity of this task. The software provides unmatched visibility into what it takes to deliver pilots – bringing together operational data to model future cadet numbers, track student progress, and predict exactly when resources will become constrained. This level of clarity supports better forecasting, tighter coordination, and stronger outcomes.

  • Petra Schreer, Manager Capacity Planning LAT Pilot Schools, Lufthansa Aviation Training, says: “With Aeroplanned, we have gained a software solution that provides us with a clear, real-time overview of our capacities, utilization, and student progress – all with just a few clicks. This is of great value to our international flight school. Efficient and forward-looking capacity planning is critical to the success of any flight training organization, and we are very pleased to have found a partner in Aeroplanned who truly understands our needs. Their deep insight into the operations of a commercial airline group is clearly reflected in a software solution that is both practical and effective. Throughout our collaboration, we have experienced a high level of professionalism from the team and look forward to continuing our work together.

By adopting Aeroplanned, EFA can now plan years in advance with far greater accuracy. This not only simplifies training operations but also ensures the right capacity is in place to deliver every required pilot.

  • Jen Liddle, CEO of Aeroplanned, says: “Lufthansa has always stood out to us as a global symbol of excellence in aviation, and that impression has only been reinforced by working with their aviation training division, Lufthansa Aviation Training. Their clarity, professionalism, and standards are exceptional. We’re incredibly proud to be supporting them with a platform designed to bring structure and foresight to the complex task of delivering future pilots.

Together, LAT and Aeroplanned are shaping a more efficient, reliable, and connected future for pilot training.

About Aeroplanned
Aeroplanned is purpose built resource planning software created exclusively for the pilot training industry. Designed to support long term training goals with precision, the platform enables training providers to set clear targets, optimise their operations, and make confident decisions years in advance. With powerful forecasting and scenario modelling, Aeroplanned transforms high level planning into clear, actionable pathways while also supporting daily execution to keep training on track. Based in New Zealand and operating globally, Aeroplanned partners with leading flight schools and training organisations to ensure students complete their training on time and progress seamlessly through a fully connected pilot pipeline.

Source: Aeroplanned
Photo Credit: LAT

Related Posts

Elite Simulation Solutions Delivers SACAA-Certified ELITE S923 FNPT II MCC to Cape Town Flight Training Centre

South Africa – Elite Simulation Solutions AG, a leading Swiss innovator in certified flight simulation technology, is pleased to announce the successful sale, delivery, and subsequent Civil Aviation Authority of South Africa (SACAA) certification of its flagship ELITE S923 FNPT II MCC flight training device to the Cape Town Flight Training Centre (CTFTC), based at Cape Winelands Airport in Durbanville, Western Cape.

About the Device

The ELITE S923 FNPT II MCC is a state-of-the-art flight simulation system designed for Multi-Crew Coordination (MCC) training, fully compliant with both South African CAA & EASA CS-FSTD(A) Issue 2 standards as a Flight and Navigation Procedure Trainer II MCC (FNPT II MCC), and also certified under FAA’s AATD Level 5 in the USA as well as Australian CASA FSD2 Cat B approved. Based on the renowned King Air B200 platform, its convertible configuration enables seamless operation as both Single-Engine Piston (SEP) and MultiEngine Piston (MEP) trainers.

Featuring dual-pilot dynamic control loading, authentic switchology, active electrical and fuel panels, pressurization and oxygen system simulation, Original Garmin GTN650 GPS avionics, and an immersive analogue and glass cockpit visual environment, the S923 FNPT II MCC delivers exceptional realism and training value.

Sale & Delivery

Following an agreement earlier this year, Elite successfully delivered the ELITE S923 FNPT II MCC to CTFTC at its dedicated Flight Simulation Facility in Bellville, Cape Town. This milestone significantly augments CTFTC’s training capabilities, offering advanced, versatile instrumentation to support both MCC and IFR training requirements.

CAA SA Certification

The simulator has been rigorously assessed and granted SACAA FNPT II MCC certification, permitting its use in official instrument, commercial, and MCC training programs in accordance with South African aviation standards.

Executive Perspectives

Rene Huddlestone, Sales & Marketing Director at Elite Simulation Solutions, remarked:

“We are immensely proud to introduce the ELITE S923 FNPT II MCC to South African airspace. This device not only reinforces our commitment to delivering elite-level simulation technology but also aligns with the rigour and depth of pilot training that CTFTC is renowned for. SACAA certification underscores the simulator’s excellence and readiness for multi-crew coordination training in a regulatory-compliant environment.”

Findlay Smith, CEO of Cape Town Flight Training Centre, commented:

“The arrival and SACAA certification of the ELITE S923 FNPT II MCC device represent a transformative development for CTFTC. This advanced simulator elevates our training offerings – enabling us to deliver superior MCC and IFR instruction while meeting international standards. Our instructors and students alike will benefit from the unprecedented realism and versatility this simulator brings.”

About Elite Simulation Solutions AG
Based in Dübendorf, Switzerland, Elite Simulation Solutions has, since its founding in 1987, engineered certified flight training systems distributed globally. With over 35 years of experience, a footprint exceeding 450 certified simulators across 51 countries, and compliance with ISO 9001 standards, Elite is celebrated for delivering high-performance, dependable simulation solutions, backed by a guaranteed certification success rate.

About Cape Town Flight Training Centre (CTFTC)
Established in 2003 and located at Cape Winelands Airport, CTFTC is a SACAA-licensed Aviation Training Organisation (ATO 1115), offering a full suite of pilot training—from Private Pilot Licence (PPL) through Commercial (CPL), Instrument Ratings, Instructor Ratings, and hour-building programs. With over two decades of delivering world-class flight instruction, CTFTC continues to set the benchmark for flight training excellence in South Africa.

Source: Elite Simulation Solutions

Related Posts

US-based Robinson Helicopter and magniX Partner to Launch Electric R66

USA – Rotorcraft manufacturer Robinson Helicopter Company has announced a strategic partnership with electric aviation technology company magniX to jointly develop an electric-powered demonstrator helicopter based on the Robinson R66 platform. This collaboration marks a significant step in the evolution of electric vertical lift aircraft, with the first flight of the demonstrator targeted for late 2026.

  • Robinson Helicopter Company is developing an electric R66 demonstrator in collaboration with magniX, with first flight expected by the end of 2026.

  • magniX will supply its fully integrated electric propulsion system, including its newly introduced HeliStorm engine and Samson battery systems, both tailored for rotorcraft applications.

  • magniX has prior experience electrifying Robinson helicopters, including the first electric R44 flight in 2022 and a hydrogen-electric R44 flight in March 2025.

  • The electric R66 project aims to address key mission types with a zero-emission, cost-effective and certifiable solution.

  • In parallel, Robinson Helicopter has launched a new trade-in programme allowing existing owners of the R22, R44, and R66 models to upgrade to new aircraft.

  • This trade-in offer supports aircraft upgrades that include enhanced safety features, advanced Garmin avionics, and options to secure deposits on the forthcoming R66 NxG or R88 models.

Statements

  • “magniX’s proven experience in electric propulsion, and previous experience with the R44 makes them the right partner to collaborate on alternative powerplant solutions,” stated David Smith, President and CEO of Robinson Helicopter Company.

  • “This agreement allows us to develop market-leading, zero-emission solutions that meet the needs of many critical mission types.”

  • “We have demonstrated the clear cost, noise and safety benefits of magniX’s fully-integrated electric powertrains,” said Riona Armesmith, CTO of magniX.

  • “The new trade-in programme underscores Robinson Helicopter’s commitment to prioritising safety and reliability across its products,” added Smith. “It’s easier than ever for owners to step into a new aircraft, complete with modern features like impact-resistant windshields and advanced Garmin avionics, or even secure a deposit for our upcoming R66 NxG or R88 models.”

Source: Robinson Helicopter Company

Related Posts

Canada’s WestJet and CAE Sign 15 Year Training Agreement for 8 Bay FFS Training Center

Canada – WestJet and CAE announced the signing of a 15-year training agreement under which CAE will establish the Alberta Training Centre of Excellence (the Centre) for Aviation and Aerospace—a cutting-edge aviation training facility in Calgary, subject to customary contingencies. Slated to open in 2028, the 126,000 square foot facility will house eight full-flight simulators, with capacity for expansion, alongside cabin trainers and state of the art digital learning tools. WestJet will be the Centre’s primary commercial airline customer and be the first to schedule initial and recurrent training for pilots and cabin crew on Boeing 737MAX, 737NG, 787 Dreamliner, and De Havilland Dash 8-400 (Q400) aircraft. In partnership with Mount Royal University (MRU), the facility will be the first of its kind in Canada to combine state-of-the-art training equipment with collaborative research and development initiatives.

“WestJet’s commitment to being the first commercial airline customer at the Alberta Training Centre of Excellence is testament to our investment in our current and future WestJetters and in Calgary as an aviation hub,” said Alexis von Hoensbroech, Chief Executive Officer of the WestJet Group. “This 15-year contract is a significant commitment that will ensure our people receive the highest standard of training for years to come, and we’re very pleased to join forces with CAE, a global leader in aviation training and fellow Canadian company, to bring this project to life.”

“Today marks a proud moment for CAE and for Canadian aviation,” said Matthew Bromberg, CAE’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “The Alberta Training Centre of Excellence represents what’s possible when industry, academia, and government come together with a shared vision for innovation, safety, and workforce development. As global demand for aviation professionals accelerates, this centre positions Canada to remain at the forefront of training excellence. I am grateful to our partners for their trust and collaboration in shaping the future of aviation.”

“We’re honoured to take our longstanding partnership with WestJet to new heights and thank them for their continued trust and confidence,” said Michel Azar-Hmouda, CAE Division President, Commercial Aviation. “The Alberta Training Centre of Excellence marks a major milestone in CAE’s growth in Western Canada and underscores our commitment to being where our customers need us most. This achievement is also a testament to the collaboration and support of our government and industry partners, whose contributions helped bring this vision to life. We look forward to welcoming pilots and cabin crew to this state-of-the-art facility, proudly supporting these professionals for the moments that matter.”

A centerpiece of Calgary’s aviation hub

This initiative marks CAE’s expansion into Western Canada and anchors Calgary as a strategic hub for aviation workforce development. The high-quality training environment will support WestJet’s growing workforce, as well as personnel from other carriers, and will also serve the next generation of commercial aviators from Mount Royal University (MRU).

The facility is also expected to generate new jobs in construction, education and training, and will support both WestJet and CAE’s commitment to safety and operational excellence while driving economic opportunity and global connectivity for travel, trade and commerce.

Construction will begin later this year, with training operations and ongoing research and development initiatives launching upon completion in 2028.

Meeting the demand for aviation talent

WestJet’s long-term expansion strategy depends on a robust talent pipeline, and MRU’s collaboration with WestJet at the Alberta Training Centre of Excellence will expose prospective professionals to commercial aviation through an Airline Transition Program (ATP) to be launched soon. The program will combine specialty training for MRU aviation students from WestJet with allocated simulator training time at the facility.

CAE will lead the design, development, and ongoing operation of the Centre, with MRU taking a leading role as the primary post-secondary collaborator by contributing academic research expertise and supporting mentorship and career-integrated student learning opportunities in partnership with both CAE and WestJet.

The agreement to develop the Centre of Excellence builds on the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between WestJet and the Government of Alberta, signed in 2022, to drive economic recovery and growth through the aerospace, aviation and logistics sectors in the province.

Government of Alberta – “The Training Centre of Excellence is about more than supporting one project. It is about securing Alberta’s place as a leader in aviation for decades to come. From training pilots to advancing aerospace technology, Alberta is stepping up to ensure our province is not only keeping pace with global demand but setting the standard for excellence. Calgary will be recognized worldwide as a hub of aviation expertise, and Alberta will be known as the place where talent, innovation and opportunity come together to power the future of flight,” said Danielle Smith, Premier of Alberta.

“Our government is excited to help make the Alberta Training Centre of Excellence in aviation and aerospace a reality here in Calgary. This investment is a result of our focus on making Alberta the best place to do business. Low corporate taxes, reduced red tape, and competitive incentive programs like the Investment and Growth Fund continue to attract world-class investments, support workforce development, create jobs, and grow the economy,” said Joseph Schow, Minister of Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration.

Mount Royal University –“Mount Royal University is excited to partner with CAE and WestJet in shaping the future of aviation training, accelerating the path from first flight to a career in the industry. Through this collaboration, students will experience transformative opportunities—including advanced training programs, access to advanced simulators, CAE scholarships, and networking and mentorship from industry leaders.

Combining cutting-edge simulation technologies with integrated teaching and research initiatives will elevate our Aviation programs and empower the next generation of aviation professionals to lead with safety, innovation, and excellence,” said Mount Royal University president and vice-chancellor, Dr. Tim Rahilly.

The City of Calgary – “Calgary is positioning itself as a national leader in aerospace innovation, and this $6.9 million investment marks a pivotal step forward,” said Mayor Jyoti Gondek. “By developing local talent, advancing research and supporting industry collaboration, we’re helping solve national challenges while building a more resilient and future-focused economy as Canada’s inland port.”

Calgary Airports – “The development and construction of the Alberta Centre for Excellence is a major step forward in establishing Calgary and Alberta as a leader in critical aviation infrastructure,” says Chris Dinsdale, President and CEO of Calgary Airports. “Envisioned at Calgary Airports, it will be a cornerstone in YYC AeroNex, a future-focused network of facilities that connects technology, innovation, infrastructure and education to transform our local economy and build the next generation of aviation professionals.”

Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund –“Today marks another important step in making our city and our region an aviation hub. The Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund (OCIF), along with our partners at the Government of Alberta, CAE, WestJet, and Mount Royal University, is committed to help build the aviation workforce of tomorrow. Through OCIF, we’re helping do what Calgary does best: connecting bold ideas with the right people together to make amazing things happen and to build a strong, resilient economic future for our city,” said Brad Parry, CEO and President, Calgary Economic Development and CEO, Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund.

About WestJet
WestJet took to the skies in 1996 with just over 200 employees and three aircraft operating service to five destinations. Since then, WestJet has pioneered low-cost travel in Canada, cutting airfares in half, and increasing the flying population in Canada by more than 50 per cent. Following integration with Sunwing in 2025, more than 14,000 WestJetters support nearly 200 aircraft and connect guests to more than 100 destinations across North America, Central America, the Caribbean, Europe and Asia.

As a major Canadian employer that includes WestJet Airlines, Sunwing Vacations Group and WestJet Cargo, the WestJet Group is Canada’s leading low-cost airline and largest vacation provider, with a united purpose of providing affordable and accessible air and vacation travel to Canadians.

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.

About Mount Royal University
Mount Royal University is one of Canada’s top destinations for undergraduate studies. It offers small class sizes and personalized student services within a scholarly community renowned for academic excellence and a focus on teaching and learning. Founded in 1910, Mount Royal remains dedicated to the success of its students. Today, more than 15,000 students choose from 13 bachelor’s degrees and 38 majors. More than 110,000 Mount Royal alumni are contributing to their communities worldwide.

Source: CAE

Related Posts

Flight Simulator Manufacturer Flightdeck Solutions to Showcase Offering at the 2025 UAA Collegiate Aviation Education Conference

USA – Flightdeck Solutions, a Canadian manufacturer of flight simulators, is set to showcase its latest innovations at the 78th Collegiate Aviation Education Conference, hosted by the University Aviation Association (UAA), taking place October 1–3, 2025, at the Hilton Orange County in Costa Mesa, California. Conference attendees are invited to visit Booth 215 to experience Flightdeck Solutions’ simulation capabilities firsthand.

In August 2024 Flightdeck Solutions (FDS) had shared that its Airbus A320 manufactured device at Ohio based Sinclair Community College had done its maiden flight highlighting part of its device deployments in the USA.

Source: Flightdeck Solutions

Related Posts

Acron Aviation and Flight Data Technologies Join Forces to Deliver an Innovative Vision for Flight Data Management

Global – Acron Aviation and Flight Data Technologies (FDT) have signed a strategic partnership to integrate FDT’s high-speed wireless Quick Access Recorder (uQAR) into Acron’s Flight Data Intelligence portfolio, offering air operators a near real-time, end-to-end flight data management solution.

  • The integrated system automatically captures, transmits, and processes flight data immediately after landing, enabling airlines to access actionable insights within minutes.

  • Benefits include:

    • Enhanced flight safety through faster access to operational data

    • Maintenance optimization by identifying technical issues earlier

    • Improved fuel utilization and cost reduction

    • Greater efficiency for flight safety teams, pilots, and engineers

  • The solution is designed to process nearly 100% of flight data worldwide within minutes of arrival, giving operators a global, scalable safety and performance monitoring tool.

  • This collaboration establishes a new benchmark in data-driven airline operations, supporting both safety and efficiency objectives.

Statements

  • “The exceptional performance and low operating cost of FDT’s high-speed uQAR allow airlines to significantly improve their flight data management – from recording to processing – while enhancing safety and reducing operational expenses,” said Natalia Bacearnicova, CEO of Flight Data Technologies.

  • “This partnership delivers a new benchmark for enhancing operational efficiency without compromising safety. The ability to automatically capture, transmit, and process flight data within minutes of landing allows operators to streamline maintenance, optimize fuel utilization, and reduce operational costs,” said Mitesh Patel, SVP & GM, Flight Data Intelligence, Acron Aviation.

  • “By seamlessly integrating the uQAR technology with Acron Aviation’s Flight Data Intelligence platform, operators can process nearly 100% of their flights within minutes of arrival, from anywhere in the world,” added JN Ruby, VP of Flight Data Technologies.

Source: Acron Aviation

Related Posts

US-based Maloy Aircraft Unveils Next‑Gen Trainer MA‑1 Blue Jay

Florida, USA — Maloy Aircraft has unveiled the MA‑1 Blue Jay, a training aircraft designed to push flight schools beyond current limitations by offering enhanced performance, advanced maneuver capability, and an airline‑relevant training environment. This marks a significant step in Maloy’s mission to streamline pilot training through an integrated platform of high‑performance hardware, curriculum, and simulation.

  • The MA‑1 Blue Jay is touted as enabling students to “master core skills earlier, practice advanced maneuvers, and build decision‑making confidence … in a modern, airline‑relevant environment.”
  • Maloy Aircraft aims not just to deliver a new aircraft, but to provide a full training ecosystem: aircraft + simulator + curriculum, designed with consistency, scalability, and alignment to airline standards.

  • The conceptual design phase of the Blue Jay has been completed in January 2025, a milestone on the path toward certification and wider deployment.

See the reveal through the video below.

Source: Maloy Aircraft

Related Posts

Training Aircraft Manufacturer BRM Aero Presents Training Solution at Future Air Force Conference 2025

Czech Republic – BRM Aero, a training aircraft manufacturer and developer of the Bristell aircraft series, is participating as an official partner at the Future Air Force Conference 2025. The company is spotlighting its Bristell B23 model as a cost-effective and integrated solution for modern military pilot training.

  • The B23 is promoted as an efficient and economical trainer aircraft with seamless flight simulator integration for contemporary air force training needs.
  • The Future Air Force Conference 2025, hosted in Prague, brings together air force commanders from around the world to address the evolving challenges in military aviation training.

Source: BRM Aero

Related Posts