Full Flight Simulator Will Be Ready For Service Start-Up This Summer

Pilot training with the first Level D full-flight simulator for Airbus Helicopters’ new EC175 rotorcraft will be available from this summer, using an Indra-built system located at the Airbus Helicopters Training Services facility in Marignane, France.

Its near-term availability will enable pilot training to begin ahead of the first EC175 customer deliveries later in 2014. This motion-based full-flight simulator incorporates a state-of-the-art visual projection system with a 210 deg. by 80 deg. continuous field of view to recreate the most realistic flight conditions for immersive training.

Development of the simulator has been a collaborative effort. Indra experts worked closely with their Airbus Helicopters counterparts to develop the simulator in parallel with the aircraft’s development. Thereby the simulator data package by Airbus Helicopters ensures that the flight model and all aircraft systems of the simulator are emulated fully identical with the real aircraft.
 
“Pilots will be able to practice all required operational tasks and procedures in normal and emergency situations, both flight and mission related,” said Indra Vice President Carlos Suárez “. Developing this project represents a good opportunity for Indra, as we look forward for a bright future for the EC-175, with growing sales worldwide.”
 
In addition to the Level D full-flight simulator, a flight navigation procedure training (FNPT) also built by Indra will be installed at the Airbus Helicopters Training Services center in Marignane. This provides valuable pilot training opportunities on a fixed-base system that is complementary to the full-flight simulator.
 
“Our significant investment in these training tools underscores Airbus Helicopters’ commitment to a high level of service and support for EC175 users,” said Airbus Helicopters President Guillaume Faury. “By offering quality training, operators of this new-generation helicopter will be able to fly safely and efficiently – fully benefitting from the EC175’s modern systems and avionics.”
 
The EC175 was developed in close consultation with operators, creating a medium twin-engine helicopter suited for a wide range of missions, including offshore crew transport, search and rescue, private transport, utility and medical evacuation operations. It features Airbus Helicopters’ new Helionix avionics suite and a digital 4-axis autopilot, providing increased safety through reduced pilot workload, enhanced situational awareness, improved flight envelope protection and system redundancy.
 
Certification of the EC175 was issued by EASA in January, clearing the way for Airbus Helicopters’ deliveries to the initial customers later this year.

(Image provided by Airbus Helicopters)

FMI: www.airbushelicopters.com