Market Intelligence: -Suppliers

ASTi’s SERA Boosts Pilot Training for Japan Airlines MPL Program

Japan – Advanced Simulation Technology inc. (ASTi) is pleased to announce that Japan Airlines (JAL) recently adopted its Simulated Environment for Realistic ATC (SERA) product as a key component in their Multi-Crew Pilot License (MPL) First Officer Program. JAL’s MPL program allows students to start training with zero cockpit experience and emerge as fully qualified, type-rated, commercial airline First Officers. CAE, in partnership with JAL, hosts this training program at its Phoenix, AZ facility.

During Phase 2 of the MPL program, SERA’s simulated air traffic control (ATC) environment provides a variety of new training scenarios forcing student pilots to react appropriately. In place of routine actions, SERA introduces events like weather diversion around a storm cell, runway go-around, altitude hold on climb-out due to air traffic, and more. SERA gives students the opportunity to practice differing levels of ATC interaction complexity from the safety of CAE’s 737NG level D full flight simulators (FFS). Further, SERA represents a significant cost savings to the airline, as CAE no longer has to fly real jet aircraft, which was the method previously used to expose trainees to ATC communication.

While it’s been almost 20 years since simulated air traffic control environments (SATCE) were identified as required for MPL training, JAL is the first airline to adopt a SATCE solution and put it into daily use. The first training class to use SERA for simulated ATC recently graduated after about three months’ time with zero percent failure rate. JAL’s embracing of SATCE technology is nothing short of visionary, and ASTi is proud to be the SATCE solution for such a successful and innovative training initiative.

About ASTi
ASTi is the leading supplier of communications, automated ATC and sound systems to the training and simulation industry. ASTi meets FAA, EASA and equivalent Level D qualifications with simulators around the world. Since 1989, ASTi has fielded over 12,000 systems at more than 800 installation sites in the U.S. and 49 other countries.

Source: ASTi
Photo Credit: ASTi

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Kore Aviation Named Official Headset Partner of Missouri Flight School Short Final Aviation

Branson, Missouri, USA — Kore Aviation is proud to announce a new partnership with Short Final Aviation, an Arkansas and Missouri-based flight school known for its practical, experience-driven approach to pilot training. Through this collaboration, Kore Aviation becomes the official headset partner for Short Final, providing KA-1 headsets for student use in flight training, discovery flights, and beyond. The partnership also includes exclusive headset pricing for enrolled students.

“We care deeply about giving students the kind of training that sticks with them well beyond checkrides,” said Caleb Green, Chief Flight Instructor at Short Final Aviation. “The KA-1 helps us do that. It’s a headset our students can count on, whether they’re working through radio calls with ATC or flying to a new airport for the first time. It’s dependable, comfortable, and it works every time.”

“We’re excited to support a school that’s all about building confident pilots with real experience,” said Min Kim, President of Kore Aviation. “Short Final isn’t just teaching people how to fly, they’re helping them grow as pilots who are thoughtful, capable, and ready for anything. We’re proud to be part of that mission.”

Source: Kore Aviation
Photo Credit: Kore Aviation

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UK-based Bristol Groundschool’s Managing Director Alex Whittingham Honoured for Lifetime Contributions to Aviation Education

United Kingdom – The Air League has honoured one of British aviation’s most influential figures, Alex Whittingham the owner of Bristol Groundschool, with its highest accolade – the Founder’s Medal – in a ceremony held last week at The House of Commons, Westminster.

This prestigious award, regarded as one of British aviation’s most distinguished honour, recognises individuals whose lifetime achievements have left a transformative and lasting legacy in aerospace. Alex Whittingham, who retired from Bristol Groundschool (BGS) earlier this year, was selected for his pioneering contributions to professional pilot training worldwide.

Over the past three decades, Alex has revolutionised the way aspiring pilots prepare for their careers, dramatically improving the accessibility, quality, and effectiveness of theoretical training. Since founding BGS in 1992, he has been a driving force behind the development of modular pilot training and distance learning, empowering over 22,000 pilots – many of whom now fly for major airlines including British Airways, Emirates, Virgin, EasyJet, and Ryanair.

Under Alex’s leadership, BGS was the first ground school to integrate computer-based learning into its ATPL (Airline Transport Pilot Licence) training. His development of the widely-used BGSonline Question Bank and an extensive ATPL video library has set the gold standard for aviation education, helping thousands of students worldwide prepare for critical licensing exams.

Alex’s influence also extended beyond the classroom. When several UK flight schools closed unexpectedly, he offered free ATPL theory courses to affected students, ensuring their training could continue uninterrupted. He also played a key role during the COVID-19 pandemic, overseeing BGS’s seamless transition to fully online instruction – a move that preserved continuity for thousands of students during global travel restrictions.

In addition to his educational achievements, Alex has helped shape regulatory policy across Europe. At the request of EASA, he authored an Alternative Means of Compliance (AltMoC) to make KSA (Knowledge, Skills and Attitudes) training viable for smaller training organisations – a solution that has since been widely adopted across the continent.

His work has earned the admiration of industry leaders and peers alike.

“Alex is one of the founding fathers of distance learning in aviation,” said Niko Gerrits of Orbit Groundschool. “He transformed theoretical knowledge training by making it seamless, engaging, and highly effective.”

Colin Dobney, Head of Training at Stapleford Flight Centre, added: “Today’s students display a far deeper understanding thanks to Alex’s vision and relentless pursuit of excellence.”

Alex said after receiving the Award: “It’s an incredible honour to receive the Founder’s Medal from the Air League. I’ve been fortunate to spend my career doing something I love – helping aspiring pilots achieve their dreams. This award is a tribute not only to my journey, but to the many talented and dedicated people I’ve worked with over the years. The future of aviation depends on accessible, high-quality training, and I’m proud to have played a part in that evolution.”

As a mentor, educator, advocate, and innovator, Alex Whittingham’s lifelong commitment has reshaped the global landscape of pilot training. The Founder’s Medal serves not only as recognition of a remarkable career, but as a tribute to a legacy that continues to inspire future generations of aviators.

Source: Bristol Groundschool
Photo Credit: Bristol Groundschool

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RedboxVR’s VR Motion Flight Simulator Debuts at Royal International Air Tattoo 2025

United Kingdom – RedboxVR, a provider of immersive VR flight simulators, showcased its RBS‑2 VR Motion Flight Simulator at the Royal International Air Tattoo as part of the Royal Air Force Air Cadets’ immersive training exhibit. The appearance underlined a growing partnership between RedboxVR and the RAF Air Cadets.

Previously, RedboxVR collaborated with RAFAC at Air Cadets training facilities and at RAF Cosford air show, supplying portable Xbox‑based kits, Pico ultra headsets with haptic Mavrik Pro blasters, and running Spawnpoint’s RE:COIL VR software.

Source: Photo Credit:

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HAVELSAN to Provide Training Solution for Calidus’ B-250 Aircraft

United Arab Emirates – Within the scope of IDEF 2025 International Defense Industry Fair, a significant cooperation agreement was formalized between HAVELSAN and UAE-based defense company Calidus for the development of advanced training systems tailored to the B-250 light attack aircraft.

Under the signed agreement, HAVELSAN will develop simulators and integrated training solutions that will constitute the core of the B-250 training infrastructure.

This agreement builds upon the initial protocol signed during SAHA EXPO in October 2023 and was formalized following the successful technical and commercial negotiations.

As part of the agreement, HAVELSAN will deliver the following systems to Calidus:

  • B-250 Flight Training Device (FTD)
  • B-250 Part Task Trainers (PTT)
  • Briefing and Debriefing Station (DBR)
  • Cockpit Entry/Exit Simulator (CIES)
  • A Computer-Based Training System (CBT)

Managing Director and Calidus CEO Dr. Khalifa Albooshi expressed his confidence in the collaboration, stating that it will result in paving a long-term strategic partnership between two companies.

Dr. Khalifa Albooshi highlighted that selection of HAVELSAN as a training solution provider for B-250 will ensure high-tech and modern training solution for Calidus customers and will train next-generation of pilots in line with B-250’s exceptional operational capabilities. Dr. Khalifa expressed his pleasure on the capability development at Calidusthrough this partnership, which is at the heart of Calidus’ core mission as one of the leading defence technology companies of UAE.

Commenting on the agreement, HAVELSAN General Manager Dr. Mehmet Akif Nacar stated: “Through our international partnerships, we aim to sustainably expand the global footprint of Turkish defense technology exports. This contract with Calidus reaffirms HAVELSAN’s proven expertise in training and simulation technologies on a global scale. By leveraging fully indigenous capabilities, we are proud to offer modern, integrated, and reliable solutions to meet the B-250 platform’s training requirements.”

This partnership will provide quality operational training to Calidus Customers while further reinforcing the global export potential of Türkiye’s defense industry technologies.

Source: HAVELSAN
Photo Credit: Calidus

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H55 and Bristell Showcase General Aviation / Flight Trainer Aircraft in Both Electric and Combustion at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh

USA – H55 and Bristell are showcasing a unique milestone in aviation at this year’s EAA AirVenture: the only general aviation aircraft certified under CS/FAR-23 available in both all-electric and combustion versions. On display at Booths #296 & 297, the Bristell B23 product line—including the fully electric B23 Energic powered by H55’s electric propulsion system—offers operators and flight schools a true side-by-side choice for their fleets. 

This dual offering isn’t just a technical achievement—it marks a pivotal step in making clean aviation accessible, scalable, and commercially viable. 

The B23 Energic, a fully electric two-seat aircraft has been developed with Bristell and is powered by H55’s proprietary Electric Propulsion System (EPS). Certified under European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) CS-23 in the first half of 2026, and entry into service in the USA in 2027, the aircraft is designed for flight schools and general aviation, offering zero emissions, quite noise, and comparable operating costs to piston-powered aircraft. 

Co-founded by the senior management team from Solar Impulse, André Borschberg, Sébastien Demont, and Gregory Blatt, H55 builds on the groundbreaking success of flying around the world without fuel to now delivering real-world electric aviation solutions. 

André Borschberg, Co-Founder and Executive Chairman, said: “Flying around the world without fuel proved what was possible. With H55, we’re making electric flight practical and accessible. During our Across America tour, we’ve completed nearly 200 passenger flights—and not a single person  stepped out without a smile. That emotional connection is translating into real commercial traction. It’s a powerful confirmation that electric aviation isn’t just part of the future—it’s a key pillar of today.” 

Now Taking Off in the U.S. – A Robust Early Customer Base 

With its first two years of production already sold out, H55 is seeing accelerating demand from U.S. and European operators. The company’s Founder’s Pioneer Edition offer has driven strong commercial interest, with deposits and signed Letters of Interest (LOIs) nearing full allocation. The message is resonating: certified electric aircraft are no longer a vision—they’re a viable business opportunity. 

Meet the Team & See the Aircraft Up Close 

Visit Bristell Booths #296 & 297 to explore the B23 Energic in person. Get cockpit briefings from H55’s pilots and see the company’s electric propulsion system on display. 

Kristen Jurn, North American Sales Manager, said: “It’s exciting to be at Oshkosh for H55’s first U.S. appearance. After flying in seven of the eight states on tour and speaking with hundreds of pilots, instructors, and operators, one thing is clear—electric flight is no longer a prototype story. The B23 Energic is real, it’s certified in Europe next year, and FAA certification will soon follow. It’s quiet, clean, and far more cost-effective to operate—and those who are ready to lead the transition are already lining up. This is more than a debut—it’s a game changer.” 

Why It Matters 

With over 160 takeoffs and landings across seven states during its Across America tour and a 100% safety record, the B23 Energic is proving that electric flight is not only viable—it’s ready for commercial adoption. The key benefits of the B23 Energic include: 

  • Quiet & Comfortable: No vibration or cabin noise, enhancing pilot and student concentration drastically decreasing the pilot workload and physiological fatigue. 
  • Ground Efficient: Low energy consumption during taxiing and circuit training. Block time and flight time are almost the same due to the absence of run-up needs and very short check-list procedure. 
  • Pilot-Friendly Simplicity: No oil changes, fouled spark plugs, faulty magnetos, or weight shifts from fuel burn—just pure focus on flying. 
  • Reliable Endurance: Up to 90-minutes of endurance with an equal recharge time for US delivery models. 
  • Easy Charging: Compatible with standard DC CCS automotive charging. 

Leading the Charge Across America 

Since April, H55 has flown across seven U.S. states—from Florida to Wisconsin—connecting with flight schools, airport operators, regulators, aerospace universities, and government officials. With commercial momentum building, H55 is helping to define the next chapter in sustaining and defining general aviation flight as clean, quiet, and cost-effective. 

About H55
H55 is a Swiss-based company founded by the former Solar Impulse management team: André Borschberg, Sebastien Demont, and Gregory Blatt. Dedicated to revolutionizing the aviation industry, H55 provides certified electric propulsion and battery management systems tailored to a diverse range of aircraft, aiming to achieve sustainable air travel. H55 supplies certified electric propulsion systems with full airplane integration solutions for general aviation and regional transport aircraft. Through its pioneering legacy and commitment to certified solutions, H55’s team of visionary engineers and aerospace experts are at the forefront of driving the aviation industry setting new standards and pushing the boundaries of electric aviation. 

Source: H55
Photo Credit: H55

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Garmin Automates Aircraft Flight Logging with PlaneSync

USA – Garmin, a leading avionics and aviation technology provider, has announced new integrations that enable aircraft owners to automatically share flight log data with a growing list of aircraft analysis service providers. The enhancements, accessible via flyGarmin.com and supported by Garmin’s PlaneSync™ system, aim to streamline engine diagnostics, maintenance tracking, and flight performance analysis—helping aircraft operators maximize the value of their Garmin avionics data.

  • Compatible Garmin avionics systems—when paired with the GDL® 60 datalink and PlaneSync or the Flight Stream 510 wireless gateway—can now automatically upload detailed flight logs to flyGarmin.com.

  • Data captured includes GPS tracks, engine metrics, CO levels, aircraft total time, attitude data, and more.

  • New integrations enable seamless data sharing from flyGarmin.com with leading aviation service providers:

    • Flight Schedule Pro

    • FlySto

    • Crewchief Systems

    • Savvy Aviation

    • novoFlight

    • Navi

  • Once account integration is enabled, flight logs are automatically shared with the selected service provider for analysis or record keeping. Access can be updated or revoked at any time.

  • Aircraft owners using SavvyConnect or Crewchief Essentials can access basic diagnostic and compliance tracking services for free, with expanded functionality available through subscription upgrades.

  • The integration platform is set to go live in August 2025, with additional providers expected later in the year.

Source: Garmin
Photo Credit: Garmin

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