Flybe, Europe’s largest regional airline, has selected US-based FlightSafety International to provide two state-of-the-art full flight simulators for its new Training Academy, namely for the Bombardier Q400 and Embraer E-Jet 170/190 aircraft, the Q400 sim being the first to arrive next month.
The simulators will be situated at the new Flybe Training Academy located at Exeter International Airport and will be equipped with FlightSafety’s industry leading VITAL X Visual System and electric motion and control loading technology. They will not only be used to train Flybe’s own pilots but, in a cooperative marketing agreement, also provide other Q400 and E-Jet operators with the opportunity to purchase surplus simulator hours on site. Prior to the E-Jet sim being installed in early 2012, FlightSafety will be providing Flybe with Embraer 170/190 training services at its facilities in Amsterdam and at Paris Le Bourget airport.
Andrew Strong, Flybe’s chief operating officer says: “The high quality simulation equipment, exceptional support and outstanding value FlightSafety provides made them the best choice for our Training Academy. Our pilots, and those from the other operators we support, will appreciate the quality, reliability and scheduling flexibility these new simulators will offer.”
Adds Eric Hinson, executive vice president at FlightSafety International: “We are pleased that Flybe has selected FlightSafety to provide the Bombardier Q400 and Embraer E-Jet aircraft simulators for their Academy in Exeter. Having served Flybe for over 13 years, we recognise and appreciate their commitment to enhancing aviation safety through professional training, using comprehensive training programmes and state-of-the art equipment.”