The technological capabilities in today’s glass cockpits and automation are astounding, and sometimes can be quite overwhelming for pilots to learn. This can bring challenges to training safely and effectively. Until recently, most commercial helicopter flight simulators were limited to larger, type-rated aircraft or military aircraft applications.
“We are now starting to see light and medium twin-engine helicopters able to train in flight simulators, such as our H125 and H145 full flight simulators. Now, pilots can receive the type of training that used to be reserved only for larger helicopter types. I think this is a move in the right direction for the industry,” Presnal says.
An Eye on the Future and Innovation
Coptersafety’s impact extends beyond individual pilot training. The company also plays a crucial role in promoting industry- wide safety standards and innovation. By sharing its expertise and best practices, Coptersafety contributes to a culture of safety within the helicopter industry that ultimately benefits pilots, operators and passengers alike.
According to Presnal, “Statistically, 20% of helicopter flight- related accidents occur during flight training. Simulators are suited for training situations which are impractical, dangerous, or expensive to reproduce in a live environment. In a simulator, the environment is designed and controlled to avoid hazards. A trainee can make errors and then learn from them, as well as repeat normal and abnormal procedures which may not be considered appropriate or safe to train in the actual helicopter.”
Simulators have been used for pilot training for decades, thus the benefits of simulator training are well-known. Technical features such as customized visual scenarios create a big advantage, especially for helicopter recurrent training. Currently, new technologies such as virtual reality (VR), mixed reality (MR) and augmented reality (AR) are being introduced in many helicopter flight-training environments.
Coptersafety’s head of training, Mikko Kallio, sees the continued benefits of Level D full-flight simulators for pilot training and does not see that changing. “We’re always monitoring the development of training platforms and are open to new technologies for use as part of a pilot’s training, such as AR, VR, or MR,” he says.
In addition to new simulation tools, training methods have evolved over the years, especially evidence-based training (EBT) that has progressively been incorporated into recurrent airline training. “The idea behind EBT is using data from the aviation industry, such as safety reports and operational data, to essentially act as an indicator for what pilot training should emphasize. This will most probably be the development for recurrent helicopter training as well,” Kallio says.
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In a world where safety is paramount, Coptersafety’s dedication to advanced simulation training sets a new standard for helicopter pilot proficiency. By combining cutting-edge technology, expert instructors, and a personalized approach, the company is shaping the future of helicopter safety, one simulated flight at a time. The Finnish company is a testament to the power of simulation, proving that the safest way to learn to fly is often by staying firmly grounded.
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