The dual certified Level 3 Flight Training Device / Level B FFS features a GrandNew light twin helicopter with IFR cockpit to offer VFR/IFR single and dual pilot flight and mission specific training. The FFS helps familiarise pilots with the latest technology found in the GrandNew cockpit, which features Flight-Logic Synthetic Vision EFIS (Electronic Flight Instrument System) with a FMS (Flight Management System), HTAWS (Helicopter Terrain Awareness Warning System), HITS (Highway In The Sky) and embedded flight recording functions.

AgustaWestland has also signed a cooperation agreement with Swiss Aviation Training (SAT) for the supply of synthetic training services through the Swiss HEMS provider Rega’s Full Flight Simulator (FFS). The training services will be available for customers operating GrandNew light twin helicopters, with courses being carried out at the SAT Training Centre, located in Zurich. Under this agreement the AgustaWestland Training Academy will deliver type rating, refresher and recurrent courses, as well as instructor training, comprising theoretical ground training in the classroom and/or via distance learning and utilizing the FFS which will be operated and maintained by SAT.

John Ponsonby, SVP Customer Support & Training said “The signing of this agreement further testifies to AgustaWestland’s commitment to providing the best training devices as essential enablers in the delivery of mission capability to operators. It also reinforces our longstanding partnership with Rega and sustains the delivery of advanced training services for the growing customer base of the GrandNew light twin, helping to maximize the exploitation of its still unmatched operational capabilities.”

SAT and AgustaWestland also plan to create dedicated mission training courses together, with the opportunity to benefit from Rega’s extensive knowledge as one of the most experienced HEMS operators in the world.

Swiss Aviation Training (SAT), a subsidiary of Swiss International Air Lines, is an internationally-active training organisation. SAT is fully licensed as a fixed wing Flight Training Organisation (FTO) and Type Rating Training Organisation (TRTO) and has among others, approvals from JAR-FCL1 / EU-OPS1, JAR-FSTD A, and JAA and manages already various fixed wing simulators in its Training Centre located in Zurich.

Acknowledged as one of the most experienced air-rescue organisations in the world, Rega operates ten Da Vinci single pilot cockpit-equipped aircraft plus one GrandNew helicopter featuring Rega dedicated mission kits. The Da Vinci, a highly customised variant of the GrandNew was specifically developed to meet Rega’s requirements and will enable the operator to meet its mountain rescue requirements well into the 21st century.