Approved As A Level 6 Flight Simulation Training Device

The FAA has granted Level 6 certification for the first AW139 flight simulation training device (FSTD) to be operate by Era Training Center (ETC). This certification will allow helicopter operators to conduct AW139 training in ETC's device under CFR Part 61 or train in the FSTD with their own instructors.

ETC's AW139 FSTD has the latest flight software for the AW139 flight management system (FMS) and replicates the aircraft in every detail. A high-fidelity simulation of the helicopter's flight characteristics and a high-performance electric control loading system, providing high fidelity control forces, gives pilots a realistic "flying" experience. To add to the reality, the FSTDs have a high-fidelity simulation of the avionics and helicopter systems (engine, fuel, etc.) based on true aircraft data and a digital sound system for both instructor/crew communication providing realistic aircraft and equipment aural cues.

The FSTD's visual system provides high-resolution imagery with a 200 x 70 degree field of view presented on a spherical screen using TruVision Global, featuring worldwide coverage. The base map includes over 10,000 runways, coastlines, and other geographic features, allowing line-oriented flight training (LOFT) that is unparalleled.

The FSTD has an Instructor Operating System (IOS) located behind the crew seats that allows the instructor to monitor crew training and control simulation. Control functionality includes scenario and sortie definition, malfunction injection and parameter freeze via a highly flexible and user-friendly workstation designed to optimize instructor workload. Together with the addition of the AW139 FSTD ETC has expanded its Lake Charles, Louisiana facility by over 30%, with two new simulator bays (one for a future device), briefing/debriefing rooms and additional office and classroom space.

AgustaWestland, as prime contractor, partnered with Frasca International, Inc. (Frasca) to support the development and production of the FSTDs, with work carried out at Frasca's facilities in the U.S. and at AgustaWestland's facilities in Sesto Calende, Italy. Frasca built the two FSTDs currently offered for training programs by ETC.

FMI: www.eratrainingcenter.com