VRM Switzerland was the first company to develop a Virtual Reality Flight Training Device that was qualified by EASA in April 2021. The opportunities this creates are extensive.
DÜBENDORF, April 26, 2021 – As a world premiere, EASA qualifies a type-specific Robinson R22 Virtual Reality Training Device developed and built by VRM Switzerland. The version for the Airbus H125 will follow shortly. Thanks to a unique technology developed in-house, the Swiss high-tech training solution provider is the first to receive approval for a VR training solution from an aviation authority.
New opportunities
This opens up new opportunities for pilots, flight schools and helicopter companies. Pilots can now have simulator time credited to their flight training and benefit from the high training value of the device. A sophisticated overall system creates a full-body immersion. This gives the pilot the feeling of sitting in a real helicopter. In addition, the software is optimized for VR glasses. This has the great advantage that the pilot has exactly the same visual representation as in the real helicopter, which is unique.
Realistic flight training
Fabi Riesen, CEO at VRM Switzerland says: «Pilots should receive realistic training on simulators. This allows helicopter operators and flight schools to fly more efficiently and safely. Thanks to the qualification from EASA, we can offer training with the possibility of crediting flight hours. To make this possible, a lot of preparatory work was necessary. The suitability of the VR concept was verified through a training evaluation program together with EASA involving pilots of various nationalities from industry and aviation authorities, including helicopter flight instructors and test pilots.»
Positive feedback from customers
Customers have already responded positively to the qualification of the simulator solution. Today the Norwegian company Helitrans has reserved two spots of the AS350/H125 out of the existing 15 qualification slots in 2021, and confirmed options for the upcoming simulators R44, AW09, H135 and H145. This shows impressively that schools and professional operators have been waiting for a VR simulator solution for a long time, with which flight training can be improved and also simplified. The qualification now gives them the certainty that the investment will pay off.
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