'Environmental Helo Ops' Course Will Benefit

Students in Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University's Helicopter Specialty Degree program will be even more well prepared for work in the helicopter industry, thanks in part to L-3 Communications. L-3 has donated a set of Night Vision Goggles (NVG) to be used within the Bachelor of Aeronautical Science Helicopter Speciality degree program.

The university's Prescott, AZ campus will using the NVGs in the advanced course, "Environmental Helicopter Operations" in which students learn about operating helicopters in adverse weather and other conditions, including day, night, and Night Vision Goggle (NVG) operations. The ground instruction on NVG operations is in accordance with the ground training requirements outlined in FAR Part 61.31(k).

"L-3 Communications is particularly pleased to have Embry-Riddle recognize and use our NVGs as part of their advanced helicopter operations instruction," stated Tom Horwath, Director, Business Development, L-3 Communications. "Embry-Riddle has always been on the forefront of emerging technology, so it only makes sense that industries such as L-3 contribute to that effort. With the ever-increasing focus on NVGs in commercial aviation, this donation supports the next generation of helicopter pilots who will be using our products in the future."

According to Assistant Professor Bryan Cox, "NVGs are playing an ever increasing role in night helicopter operations. We are pleased to have NVGs and L-3 supporting our students. It provides not only hands-on training but the field trip to L-3 also gives students an appreciation for emerging technology they will undoubtedly be using in the helicopter industry."

The fact that the Tempe, AZ L-3 Warrior Systems Electron Tube Operations facility is close by to Embry-Riddle's Prescott campus provides for unique opportunities, according to Professor Cox. Field trips give students the opportunity to see the sophisticated manufacturing process used to build the complex microchannel plates as well as other components of the NVGs.

FMI: www.l-3com.com