Technology and people are the center of it all
The training academy facilities are basically broken up into five different areas: classrooms for ground training, simulation bay for flight training, airframe and component bay for pilot and maintenance training, administrative areas, and client amenity areas that include a cafe, workout space, and client rest and study rooms.
Naturally, the bulk of training occurs in the ground training classrooms and flight simulation areas. At the core of virtually every training method, technology is used to improve and enhance the way clients learn to fly, operate, and maintain their aircraft.
In the classrooms, each client is equipped with computer stations and iPads in order to access training aids and related training manuals. For example, prior to stepping foot into the full-flight simulator, emergency procedures can be run from the classroom white board in which the instructor can fail individual systems, such as electrical or hydraulics. This allows the student to see the full cockpit instrumentation and visualize what indications will be seen in the cockpit, as well as see how individual aircraft systems will be affected on systems synoptic pages.
Without a doubt, the benefits of the advanced ground training prepares students as they transition over into the simulation training, which uses some of the most advanced helicopter simulation technology in the world. On the subject of training and technology, Eichman said, “Leonardo is a technology company.
We have a team of training specialists and engineers dedicated to the development of training devices with advanced capability.” The academy’s newest simulator, the AW169 is equipped with a 12-foot dome, high-definition audio and visual projections, and a high-fidelity electronic motion and feedback system.
Technology development is so integral to Leonardo’s holistic approach to its clients that it has created a new concept called the “digital twin.” Della Bella described it as “one of the most modern concepts that we are trying to deliver in a concrete way.” He went on to use the AW169 as an example by explaining that the aircraft, simulators, and training products are developed in-house without third parties. The benefits of this digital-twin concept is that it allows connections between the aircraft, training, and simulator to maintain timely continuity and alignment as changes occur to the aircraft.
Naturally as the client base continues to expand, training and technology development cannot happen without people. Developing a capable and competent team has become one of the company’s top priorities. “Our Leonardo family of professionals are the key to our industry success,” Della Bella said. “We are committed to attracting, retaining and mentoring our people, creating a common focused purpose of exceptional products, services, and customer experiences throughout our global customer support and training operations.”
Given my personal experiences training at Leonardo in both Italy and the U.S., I believe that commitment is real.
64
Sept/Oct 2021
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