Dublin, Ireland – Simtech Aviation has announced the expansion of its Dublin-based pilot training facilities through a long-term partnership with Aer Lingus, part of International Airlines Group (IAG), one of the world’s largest airline groups, supporting the delivery of advanced full-flight simulator training for Airbus aircraft.

The programme will see the introduction of new CAE full-flight simulators for the Airbus A320, A330 and A321XLR at Simtech’s Dublin training centre.

The A320 CEO/NEO and A330 CEO/NEO Full-Flight Simulators are scheduled to enter service in early 2026, with the A321XLR simulator to follow in early 2027.

The partnership is designed to support growing airline pilot training demand and further strengthens Dublin’s position as a key European Aviation training hub.

Founded in 2001, Simtech Aviation is approved by the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) and EASA as a leading European Approved Training Organisation (ATO). The company has trained more than 5,500 student pilots and works with airlines and flight schools across Ireland, the UK and Europe, delivering training across Airbus, Boeing, and ATR aircraft.

In addition to the newly announced simulators, Simtech currently operates a broad range of training assets at its Dublin facility, including:

• ATR 500 and ATR 600 full-flight simulators supporting EASA type rating and recurrent pilot training
• A fixed-base Boeing 737-800NG simulator used for APS MCC training for both EASA and UK CAA cadets along with stand-alone EASA MCC course
• An Airbus A320 full-flight simulator, with increased availability anticipated from mid-2026, enabling expanded pilot assessment activity and future training programmes

Together, this capability positions Simtech Aviation as Ireland’s largest full-flight simulator training centre, supporting airline and cadet pilot training across multiple aircraft types.

Alongside its airline training operations, Simtech has become a recognised centre of excellence for student pilot training, working closely with Irish, UK and European flight schools to deliver airline-aligned advanced simulator programmes. Its focus on instructor expertise, modern infrastructure and operational reliability has positioned Simtech as a trusted partner in preparing pilots for airline operations.

This partnership represents an important milestone in Simtech Aviation’s long-term development and reinforces its commitment to supporting airline and pilot training requirements well into the future.

About Simtech Aviation 
Founded in 2001 and headquartered in Dublin, Simtech Aviation is a leading European aviation training organisation approved by the IAA and EASA. The company provides airline pilot training, type ratings, APS MCC programmes and recurrent training across Airbus, Boeing, and ATR aircraft, serving airlines and flight schools throughout Ireland, the UK and Europe. 

About International Airlines Group (IAG) 
International Airlines Group is one of the world’s largest airline groups, comprising Aer Lingus, British Airways, Iberia, Vueling and LEVEL. IAG operates a fleet of modern aircraft across short-haul and long-haul networks and continues to invest in training, sustainability and fleet development to support long-term growth.

Source: Simtech Aviation
Photo Credit: Simtech Aviation