TRU Simulation Introduces Cessna Grand Caravan EX Veris VR Flight Training Device

Nevada, USA – Flight simulator manufacturer TRU Simulation, a Textron company and affiliate of Textron Aviation, has introduced its first Cessna Grand Caravan EX-configured Veris Virtual Reality Flight Training Device (FTD). Announced in Las Vegas on 20 October 2026 during NBAA-BACE, the new configuration expands the manufacturer's simulator portfolio to support turboprop pilot training for commuter, cargo, charter and utility aircraft operators.

• The Grand Caravan EX becomes the fourth aircraft configuration announced for the Veris platform, joining the Bell 505 helicopter, Cessna Skyhawk and Airbus H125 helicopter. It is the first Caravan-specific training device in TRU Simulation's portfolio.
• According to Textron Aviation, more than 3,100 Caravan and Grand Caravan aircraft have been delivered worldwide, with the fleet accumulating over 25 million flight hours. The aircraft family is certified in 100 countries, providing an international operator base for the new training device.
• The new configuration is intended to support pilot familiarisation, procedural instruction and proficiency development for operators using the Grand Caravan EX in passenger, cargo and special-mission operations.
• The new device features a physical cockpit replicating Grand Caravan EX instrumentation, flight controls and Garmin G1000 NXi avionics. Its dual-seat configuration supports single-pilot and multi-crew instructional scenarios, while training can be conducted with or without a VR headset. The wider Veris platform incorporates a fully electric six-degree-of-freedom motion system, digital electric control loading, a Varjo VR/MR headset and an image generation system powered by Unreal Engine.
• AFM previously reported that TRU Simulation was preparing to demonstrate its Cessna Skyhawk Veris at NBAA-BACE 2026, with the fixed-wing training device designed to meet FAA Level 7 FTD standards. The Grand Caravan EX represents a further aircraft configuration within the same simulation platform.

Statements

• "The Veris platform was created to make high-fidelity simulation accessible to more operators and training organizations, helping to meet the growing need for efficient pilot training and proficiency development across the industry. The Grand Caravan EX serves a broad range of missions around the world, from cargo and commuter operations to special mission and utility flying, making it a natural addition to the growing Veris portfolio. This device gives operators another tool to enhance pilot preparedness while balancing training effectiveness, flexibility and cost," said Jerry Messaris, President and CEO of TRU Simulation.

About TRU Simulation
TRU Simulation + Training Inc. is a US flight simulation equipment manufacturer headquartered in Tampa, Florida, operating as part of Textron and affiliated with Textron Aviation. The company develops and manufactures Full Flight Simulators, Flight Training Devices and virtual reality simulation systems for business aviation, rotorcraft, commercial aviation and defense customers, reporting more than 240 qualified and supported devices across over 120 customers worldwide.

Source: TRU Simulation