New Location, More Options

SimCom and Socata Aircraft, the US subsidiary of EADS Socata, announced Tuesday the expansion of SimCom's TBM 700 training programs with the addition of a new training location and increased training options. SimCom now offers Socata TBM 700 training at both of its Orlando, Florida and Scottsdale, Arizona centers.

Operators have a choice between simulator-based instruction offered at the Orlando center and in-aircraft programs offered through both the Orlando and Scottsdale centers. The new location expands the nationwide network of professionally trained TBM instructors available to TBM operators.

Increased training options at both centers include introduction of an upgrade course. This new course is specially designed for the piston or low time pilot upgrading to the TBM 700. Course content is personally tailored to cost effectively meet individual insurability requirements. Through a series of customized flights in the customer's aircraft, the upgrade training provides instruction specific to the pilot's aircraft and operational environment. An expanded network of instructors provides for flexible scheduling. Training may be taken sequentially or in modules designed to fit individual schedules.

As Socata's exclusive factory authorized training provider for the TBM 700, SimCom offers numerous specialized courses including: 6-Day Initial, 3-Day Recurrent, 2-Day Advanced Refresher, and Upgrade.

"The new Upgrade course, combined with our unique FAA approved type specific FAA Level 5 TBM 700 simulator (which was built in cooperation between SimCom and Socata), provides a new standard in training for piston and low time pilots. Our TBM training programs combine advanced simulation technology with the latest computer animation - all at an unmatched value in today's training market. Training programs are insurance industry approved, and are taught by factory trained, career aviation instructors with specific expertise on their respective aircraft," said Tracy Brannon, Senior Vice President and Managing Director, SimCom Training Centers.

"As this fleet continues to grow, we remain committed to providing the best in simulation and training programs. In addition, our Scottsdale and Orlando training locations are ideal for owners who wish to bring their family with them to combine training and a family vacation," adds Brannon.

"Our customers have consistently given SimCom high marks for the training they have received," said Stephane Bernard, Socata Aircraft's President and CEO. Their unique custom TBM 700 simulator which was built in cooperation between our two companies, coupled with SimCom's professional training program and their dedicated instructors, provide safety benefits, which help promote a robust TBM community. In addition, SimCom's new Upgrade course is ideal for our lower-time customers that are "moving up" from piston singles or twins and makes it easier for our customers to become "Insurance Qualified" and safe to fly the TBM."

FMI: www.panamacademy.com, www.socata.eads.net