First OEM To Get VR Sim Training, Powered By Loft Dynamics

Loft Dynamics announced that Airbus Helicopters received regulatory approval to deliver a type rating program using a VR flight simulator from the French Civil Aviation Authority (DGAC) for conducting type rating training for the AS350-B3e through the use of a Loft Dynamics VR simulator.

This extends a series of regulatory progress in Europe following EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency) approval in 2023 for the use of the company’s H125 VR Simulator for all elements of pilot training and checking.

The French approval represents the first national aviation agency to approve a type rating training program without the use of a full flight simulator or FFS. It also gives the industry a clear plan for how OEMs, ATOs (approved training organization), and regulators can work together to scale safe and more accessible pilot training in Europe and beyond.

Fabi Riesen, CEO of Loft Dynamics said, “Helicopter training and checking has long faced a painful trade-off: rely on limited-access, cost-prohibitive full flight simulators, or conduct high-risk maneuvers in the aircraft itself. One-third of all helicopter accidents occur during training and checking—that tells you everything.

Riesen continued, “With this approval, Airbus, EASA, and DGAC have shown how we begin to reverse that statistic and what the future of safer, more accessible pilot training looks like. This milestone proves that our VR technology is ready to support complex certification programs—including with one of the world’s most respected OEMs. It also builds on the important regulatory groundwork laid by EASA and reflects the bold leadership of Airbus in turning the vision of safer, more scalable training into reality.”

Yann Guerin, Head of Training Operations at Airbus Helicopters said, “I am thrilled to announce that our ATO has been approved by the French DGAC to deliver AS350B3e type rating using a combination of Loft dynamics VR simulator and helicopter. It is an important milestone for us in line with the Airbus Helicopter’s objective to reduce the number of accidents for light helicopters worldwide. The safety of our customers is paramount for us.”

FMI:  www.loftdynamics.com/