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Helicopter Manufacturer Unveils New Army Training Helicopter at 2025 Army Aviation Mission Solutions Summit 

United States – Robinson Helicopter Company (RHC), one of the world’s leading manufacturer of light helicopters, unveiled the new R66 Army Training helicopter at the 2025 Army Aviation Mission Solutions Summit (Quad A) in Nashville, Tennessee. As the only American-designed and manufactured helicopter in its class, the R66 offers a dependable and affordable training solution for the Army’s IERW (Initial Entry Rotary Wing) program.

The Robinson R66 helicopter offers significant advantages as the U.S. Army’s next rotorcraft trainer. The R66 consistently has the lowest acquisition and lowest direct operating cost (DOC) and most advanced safety features in its class. Through vertically integrated manufacturing, more than 85% of all R66 parts are made in Robinson’s Torrance, California manufacturing facility. This American-made philosophy ensures consistent parts availability and the highest part quality.

Inside the aircraft, the R66 incorporates its signature instructor-friendly cyclic design, providing enhanced instructor oversight for improved control and safety in the learning environment. Designed for real-world training, the R66 exceeds demanding Army training requirements and ensures a smooth transfer of skills to operational environments.

The integration of advanced Garmin G500H TXi and GTN750 avionics provides enhanced situational awareness and facilitates digital cockpit habit transfer. The intuitive powerplant, equipped with a power turbine governor and twist-grip throttle, simplifies engine management, crucial for effective training. The R66 helicopter also comes standard with an integrated 4k cockpit camera to further enhance safety and support ongoing training.

“The R66 embodies American-made readiness, built with reliability, quality, and durability at its core, and we are committed to providing seamless American-made support,” said David Smith, president and CEO of Robinson Helicopter Company. “Pilots worldwide learn critical power management skills and achieve true flight readiness in a Robinson aircraft. This foundation prepares them exceptionally well for future operational demands.”

In conjunction with Quad A, Robinson Helicopter Company released the latest installment in its Climb Higher video series, “American-Made Readiness and Pilots of Tomorrow,” featuring highly experienced, former Army aviators and Robinson pilots. These videos highlight their direct experience with Robinson helicopters and underscore the platform’s effectiveness in preparing the Army’s next generation of skilled aviators. The series offers compelling insights into the critical role Robinson aircraft play, from law enforcement missions to training thousands of pilots over the last half century.

About Robinson Helicopter Company
For more than 50 years, Robinson Helicopter Company has been at the forefront of the helicopter industry by delivering safety-enhancing technologies, including OEM-designed crash-resistant fuel cells, 4K cockpit video cameras, autopilot systems, impact-resistant windshields, and NVG-compatible cockpits. Robinson is committed to developing, manufacturing, and supporting the most reliable and efficient helicopters in the industry. 

Source: Robinson Helicopter Company
Photo Credit: Robinson Helicopter Company

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Pilot Assessment Solution Provider Symbiotics Welcomes New Business Development Manager – Lance Avery

United Kingdom – Symbiotics has announced the appointment of Lance Avery as its new Business Development Manager, as the company continues to expand its international growth in aviation training selection and assessment solutions. To learn more about Symbiotics or Mr Avery – you can connect with him here.

About Symbiotics
Symbiotics is a global leader in the delivery of pilot selection and assessment solutions. The company supports airlines, training organizations, and military operators worldwide with its innovative psychometric testing and human factors assessment tools, ensuring optimal performance and safety across flight operations.

Source: Symbiotics
Photo Credit: Symbiotics

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France’s ENAC Orders 30 Elixir Aircraft

France – Elixir Aircraft, a French manufacturer of training aircraft, has been selected by the French National Civil Aviation School to replace its fleet of VFR* aircraft. Thirty Elixir aircraft will be delivered to ENAC between 2026 and 2027. The Elixir is a 4th-generation aircraft equipped with a OneShot carbon structure, a unique and innovative solution thanks to its simplicity. This design, combined with an ultra-fuel-efficient engine, reduces CO2 emissions by 70%.

The École Nationale de l’Aviation Civile (ENAC) is Europe’s leading aeronautical university. It trains students for careers in aeronautics and air transport, including engineers, air traffic controllers and pilots. Every year, 2,000 students are trained in France and abroad. In addition to its historic campus in Toulouse, ENAC operates its aviation activities from eight other sites in France. The school is committed to renewing and modernising its fleet, which will consist of 97 aircraft by 2025. For the VFR segment, the Elixir, certified in 2020 and produced in La Rochelle, has been selected for a firm order of 30 aircraft. Airline pilots trained by ENAC will thus complete part of their training on the Elixir from 2027 onwards.

Founded in 2015 by three engineers, Elixir Aircraft obtained EASA certification for its 100-horsepower two-seater aircraft in 2020. Since then, 35 aircraft from the La Rochelle factory have been flying across Europe. There are 300 aircraft on the order book.

The Elixir is a fourth-generation aircraft with a simplified, all-composite aerostructure called Carbon OneShot. It comprises only nine parts, with no rivets or glue. This innovative technology offers almost unlimited potential, increased safety and reduced maintenance, while also making the aircraft lighter, thereby reducing fuel consumption compared to models with metal or partially composite structures.

This innovative design, combined with an ultra-fuel-efficient engine that reduces CO2 emissions by 70%, makes the Elixir a quiet aircraft and limits its operating cost to €50 per hour. These advantages are particularly suited to operators with high flight cycles, such as training centres.

In addition, the Elixir’s full glass cockpit avionics provide student pilots with an environment very similar to that which they will encounter when flying commercial aircraft.

The Elixir has joined the fleets of private schools such as Airbus Flight Academy in France, Leading Edge Aviation in the United Kingdom and Spain, Fife Flight Centre in Scotland and Egnatia Aviation in Greece. ENAC’s order provides Elixir Aircraft with public recognition and valuable support for its industrial development.

“We are very proud to integrate the Elixir into the fleet of ENAC, Europe’s leading aeronautical school. It is an honor to succeed the French manufacturers who have marked the history of this elite institution. This contract is the reward for ten years of work in the design, certification, and industrialization of our aircraft. We look forward to meeting the first ENAC pilots trained on the Elixir in a few years,” said Arthur Léopold-Léger, co-founder and president of Elixir Aircraft.

“The Elixir fits perfectly with our ambition for ENAC’s future fleet, built around three strategic axes: educational, economic, and environmental performance. One of ENAC’s missions is to support the transformation of the air transport sector towards more sustainable aviation, and the major fleet renewal operation, with the support of our supervisory authority, is part of this strategy. We are delighted and excited about our partnership with Elixir Aircraft,” said Olivier Chansou, Managing Director of ENAC.

Source: Elixir Aircraft

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Acron Aviation Revamps its Pilot App to Improve Efficiency and Optimize Safety

Global – Acron Aviation, formerly L3Harris Commercial Aviation Solutions, a global leader in aviation technology, announced the launch of Astra. This customizable iOS app transforms how pilots’ access and utilize flight performance data. The official unveiling took place at the Airline and Aerospace MRO and Flight Operations IT Conference in Amsterdam, where Acron Aviation showcased firsthand how Astra informs safety management and flight operations teams through its intelligent dashboard, and empowers pilots with personalized performance metrics and actionable intelligence through the customizable iOS app.

Astra uses advanced flight data analytics to provide pilots with crucial insights before and after each flight, through the iOS app’s safety module, while prioritizing safety and fuel efficiency. The Efficiency module delivers comprehensive monitoring of fuel consumption, wear-and-tear indicators, and performance metrics through an intuitive dashboard, enabling fleet-wide oversight for management teams while driving performance improvements in the flight deck.

Mitesh Patel, VP and GM Flight Data Intelligence at Acron Aviation said: “With Astra, we’re closing the gap between Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and actual flight performance.” Patel continued, “by leveraging Machine Learning algorithms and our database of 45 million flights, we’re delivering personalized, timely, and engaging feedback directly to pilots. Astra represents a significant advancement in how airlines can monitor and optimize fuel consumption and reduce wear-and-tear. This approach not only enhances safety it also improves operational effectiveness and reduces costs.”

Astra is a strategic partnership with FuelVision, a champion for flight efficiency and data-powered performance to create a more sustainable future, with Elena Escrivá de Romaní Pérez, CEO FuelVision saying: “Astra increases awareness and engagement with efficiency programs by providing pilots with individual feedback and coaching, as well as providing detailed analytics on fuel consumption patterns, identifies potential savings opportunities, and offers actionable recommendations to optimize flight operations.” She continued, “FuelVision was founded by pilots, which means we do things in a fundamentally different way and our starting point is always through the lens of a pilot.”

For management teams, Astra provides valuable data that highlights positive performance and identifies areas for improvement in efficiency and risk mitigation. The platform allows tracking of adherence to SOPs and ROI, with fully customizable parameters that can be used to inform and adapt fleet-wide pilot training based on performance insights. For pilots, Astra is designed to reduce app fatigue by consolidating critical information into one intuitive platform.

Demonstrations of Astra will continue throughout the Airline and Aerospace MRO and Flight Operations IT Conference in Amsterdam from June 17-18, 2025, as well as being available at the 2025 International Paris Airshow.

Key features:

  • Advanced Efficiency Module: Comprehensive monitoring and analysis of fuel consumption patterns, aircraft wear-and-tear indicators, and operational effectiveness metrics through an intuitive dashboard
  • FDM-Powered Intelligence: Machine learning algorithms analyze flight data monitoring information, identifying opportunities to improve adherence to standard operating procedures
  • Comprehensive Benchmarking: Pilot performance is measured against other crew members in their fleet, with recommendations built on ML models trained on a vast database of 45 million flights
  • Unified Performance View: Provides a cohesive view of safety metrics, wear-and-tear indicators, and fuel efficiency data
  • Personalized Training: Customized training plans based on individual performance data
  • Pre-Flight Briefings: Delivers route-specific data and operational knowledge before takeoff
  • Timely Debriefs: Processing over 25,000 flights daily within minutes, feedback is provided within 15 minutes of landing, aligning with safety and efficiency priorities
  • Through a strategic partnership with FuelVision, Astra’s Efficiency module increases awareness and engagement with efficiency programs

Acron Aviation’s industry-leading Flight Data Monitoring platform, Flight Data Connect, processes over 25,000 flights daily within 5 minutes and is a key component of IATA’s Flight Data eXchange program. Astra integrates seamlessly with Acron Aviation’s Flight Data Monitoring platform but is also compatible with third-party systems.

Source: Acron Aviation
Photo Credit: Acron Aviation

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Stick n Throttle Aviation Enhances its Training with a New ALSIM ALX Simulator

South Africa – flight simulator manufacturer ALSIM is delighted to share that Stick n Throttle Aviation, a flight training school in South Africa, has recently invested in 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, 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.

Etienne BEKKER, Director & Head of Training at Stick n Throttle Aviation, says “The ALSIM ALX is a natural choice for the multi-faceted options it offers in a single generic simulator. In addition, ALSIM is well represented in South Africa, with satisfactory performance for qualification within the SACAA. The product works and performs as required for SACAA qualification and is supported by well-known factory assistance throughout the process.

Stick n Throttle Aviation is proud to be linked to the ALSIM team. From the start of our experience, it has only been a breeze with adequate information supplied as required. Support from the sales team to the current dispatch and upcoming staff training has been well-informed and ahead of time. We are confident the installation will be a pleasurable experience when it all arrives.”

Leonardo RODRIGUES, Sales Manager at ALSIM, adds: “We are delighted to support Stick n Throttle Aviation in enhancing their training capabilities with the addition of the ALSIM ALX, and would like to thank them for their confidence.”

About Stick n Throttle Aviation
Stick n Throttle Aviation is a flight training school based at Morningstar Airfield in the Western Cape, South Africa. Located within the well-known Morningstar Flying Club, it offers an ideal environment for flight training, just five minutes from both Cape Town International Airport and the General Flying Area, with Table Mountain as the key reference point for VFR operations. The school delivers high-quality training from NPL through CPL, including night, instrument, and instructor ratings. Ground school is led by specialists who ensure that all instruction material is understoodand applied. Facilities include modern classrooms and an approved SACAA PPL exam center. From October 2025, Stick n Throttle will integrate a new ALSIM ALX simulator, expanding its training capabilities to include MCC,JOC, PBN (GNSS), FMC, and turbine introduction courses. With a diverse fleet from the Sling 2 to the Piper Turbo Arrow, Stick n Throttle combines professional instruction with personalized aviation training.

About ALSIM
ALSIM has been developing and manufacturing FAA & EASA certified FNPT II, FNPT II MCC and AATD flight simulators. ALSIM is well recognized for its experience and know-how since 1994. We’re proud to say our hardware & software is made 100% in house, which means peace of mind for our customers. ALSIM’s main objective relies on innovation: we aim to anticipate our clients’ needs and remain at the cutting edge of technology. Today, we have more than 450 devices installed and certified in over 60 countries, with over 400 clients.

Source: ALSIM
Photo Credit: ALSIM

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PlaneSense Adopts MINT TMS to Fully Digitize Training Operations

USA – PlaneSense®, a leading fractional aircraft ownership provider, has officially implemented MINT TMS, a web-based Training Management System from MINT Software Systems, to modernize and streamline its end-to-end training processes. The adoption marks a strategic shift from manual record-keeping to a fully digital training environment—improving data integration, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency across flight operations, maintenance, and scheduling.

  • PlaneSense has deployed MINT TMS, a cloud-based solution to centralize training records, qualifications, compliance, and planning.

  • The TMS implementation includes electronic grading, intelligent forecasting, offline functionality, and mobile app workflows.

  • MINT’s system integrates with PlaneSense’s internal platforms, including FAA Pilot Records Database (PRD) and MS Exchange Calendar sync.

  • The system supports training departments across the enterprise, from pilots and instructors to maintenance technicians at Atlas Aircraft Center.

  • The upgrade enables real-time data tracking, reduces manual workload, improves resource allocation, and enhances training oversight.

Statements:

  • “MINT TMS is uniquely flexible. It’s built to adapt to the specific training requirements of every customer, and for PlaneSense, that means scaling operations efficiently while maintaining the highest standards of safety and compliance. It is a powerful step to modernize its training processes and improve oversight.” – Nick Denton, Chief Customer Officer, MINT Software Systems

  • “I continue to be amazed by the customizations and features that MINT offers. MINT is going to help us in many ways. By transitioning from manual paper record-keeping to MINT’s completely digital solution, PlaneSense will streamline its entire training process.” – Tim Cloutier, Assistant Director of Flight Training for Jet Operations, PlaneSense

About PlaneSense
PlaneSense® is a U.S.-based fractional aircraft ownership program headquartered in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. It operates the largest civilian fleet of Pilatus PC-12 turboprops and PC-24 jets in the country, supported by over 600 personnel, including 240 pilots. The company delivers personalized, high-performance private aviation services across North America, with a reputation for reliability, safety, and customer-centric operations.

About MINT Software Systems
MINT Software Systems, based in Germany, develops MINT TMS, a training management solution used by airlines, training centers, and OEMs globally. Designed for flexibility and compliance, MINT TMS digitizes the full training lifecycle, offering tools for planning, qualification tracking, analytics, and regulatory reporting.

Source: MINT Software Systems
Photo Credit: MINT Software Systems

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Intercontinental Aviation Academy to Welcome Diamond Aircraft for Next-Generation Fleet

Austria – Intercontinental Aviation Academy (IAA), the training arm of Intercontinental Aviation Enterprise (IAE), has taken a bold step toward elevating its global training standards by finalizing a draft order for a fleet of brand-new Diamond Aircraft models. This landmark agreement marks the beginning of a strategic transition to next-generation aircraft that will power IAA’s training operations starting in 2026.

The IAA delegation was led by CEO Capt. Wissam Mehyou, accompanied by Deputy CEO for Business Development and Executive Board Member Mr. Frederico Fernandes, and Board Investment & Fund Advisor Mr. Duarte Costa. The team visited Diamond Aircraft’s state-of-the-art manufacturing facility and airport in Austria, where they were received by Diamond Aircraft CEO Mr. Frank Zhang , and Sales representative Mr. Anton Chirkovski.

In a highly productive meeting, both organizations explored the future of their collaboration and growth opportunities. An initial agreement was reached for the introduction of Diamond’s new-generation training aircraft into the IAA fleet. Full details regarding the number of aircraft and the terms of the deal will be disclosed at a later stage.

As part of the visit, the IAA executive team participated in a live demonstration and test flight. The CEO and team personally piloted the aircraft to gain firsthand insight into its performance and features—mirroring the exact training experience that future IAA students will benefit from.

The introduction of Diamond’s cutting-edge training aircraft aligns with IAA’s commitment to delivering world-class aviation education through advanced infrastructure, a modern training fleet, and a student-centered approach.

Source: Intercontinental Aviation Enterprise

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H55 Achieves 104th Electric Landing as Arizona Segment of USA Tour Concludes

Phoenix, Arizona, USA – H55, the Swiss electric aviation pioneer and spin-off of the Solar Impulse project, has completed the Arizona segment of its Across USA Tour, marking a major milestone with its 104th electric landing. This phase of the tour showcased the Bristell B23 Energic, an all-electric trainer aircraft, through a series of demonstration flights, community engagements, and direct outreach with flight schools, fixed-base operators (FBOs), and aviation leaders across the state.

  • 104 electric landings achieved across the U.S., with Arizona marking the third state on the eight-state tour

  • 20 demo flights conducted with 17 certified flight instructors and 4 aviation operations leaders

  • 25 flight schools engaged, including institutions like ASU and ERAU Prescott

  • Airports visited: Mesa Falcon Field (FFZ) and Scottsdale Airport (SDL)

  • The Bristell B23 Energic, powered by H55’s certified electric propulsion and battery management systems, proved its operational viability in Arizona’s high-temperature, high-density air environments. Feedback from instructors and student pilots highlighted the aircraft’s intuitive handling, noise reduction, and training adaptability.

Statements:

Kyle Sauvageau, Flight Instructor, Scottsdale Executive Flight Training: “The simplicity and quiet would benefit instructors, students, and communities alike. I can’t wait to see these take flight at more airports and hopefully at our school.”

Mitchell Rasmuson, Flight Instructor, Sierra Charlie Aviation (100th U.S. Landing Pilot): “It handles just like a standard single-engine aircraft—but the quiet and communication clarity truly felt like the next step in flight training.”

Kailee McGough, Flight Instructor, Leopard Aviation (104th U.S. Landing Pilot): “It’s actually easier than a Cessna. As a student pilot, the quiet cockpit helps you focus without the noise fatigue.”

Kristen Jurn, North American Sales Manager, H55: “Arizona delivered far more than sunshine—it offered a powerful look into the future of flight training, instructor enthusiasm, and community support.”

Gregory Blatt, Co-Founder and Tour Director: “Crossing our 104th landing in Arizona is symbolic. From where Solar Impulse departed in 2013 to today’s Part 23 electric aircraft, this proves that clean aviation has moved from concept to reality.”

About H55
Founded by the team behind Solar Impulse, H55 is based in Switzerland and develops certified electric propulsion and energy storage solutions for general and regional aviation. Its mission is to enable sustainable air travel with scalable, safe, and operational electric aircraft systems.

Source: H55
Photo Credit: H55

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