EC135 Level D Full Motion Simulator arrives at Helicopter Flight Training Center

Since its opening in 2012, the Helicopter Flight Training Center has seen continuous expansion, and recently added its first full motion simulator. The EC135 P2+ Level D Full Flight Simulator arrived from FlightSafety International’s DFW facility.

“We have anticipated the arrival of the full motion simulator and are very excited to begin utilizing it for training,” said Director of Part 135 training John McClure. The simulator is on schedule for certification in May and will be available for training in June. The co-launch customers were announced during HELI-EXPO 2014. Air Medical Group Holdings (AMGH) has a four-year training agreement, while California Shock Trauma Air Rescue Ambulance (CALSTAR) has a five-year agreement to use the EC135 simulator at the Helicopter Flight Training Center.

“The addition of the full motion simulator is a huge asset for our training center,” said McClure. “We can offer a well-rounded program with the new EC135 and the existing AS350 Level 7 Flight Training Device.” Both simulators are equipped with NVG capability. The facility has space for two more simulators, and the training staff is exploring options to meet industry needs.

“At Metro Aviation, we fully realize the value of sim training and that is why we have used simulators to train our pilots ever since they became available,” said Metro Aviation President Mike Stanberry. Metro was among the first to use simulators in the HEMS industry, and did so before simulators even existed for the types of aircraft their pilots were accustomed to flying.

“We played a large role in the development and innovation of the first EC135 full motion simulator. To witness it being put together from the ground up gives us first hand knowledge of the inner workings and level of sophistication encapsulated in this cutting-edge technology,” said Stanberry. “The installation of the EC135 full motion sim not only drives home the commitment Metro has to the industry and its flight operations customers to provide a well-rounded and safe service, it provides particularly sweet ‘icing on the cake’ as pilots can complete FAA-approved check rides in this simulator.”

The Helicopter Flight Training Center is located in Shreveport, La. For more information about the training center or dry leasing training time in a simulator, visit HFTCShreveport.com