Virtual Reality Enhances Cockpit Realism with Hybrid Setup

Textron's Bell Flight Training Academy will be using a brand new type of Virtual Reality Flight Simulator at their flagship location, with a brand-new Veris VR Flight Simulator.

The unit was recently shown off at the HAI Heli-Expo 2024, offering clients a clean-sheet design that combines a traditional full-motion experience with visual augmentation to make it feel even more like the real thing. Bell Training Academy will be the launch customer for the type, and begin using the simulator on the Bell 505 later this year.

The Veris features 6 degrees of freedom about its motion base, with TRU's 'REALFeel control loading system', garnering it status as a Level 7 FAA FLight Training Device, and an EASA Level 3 standard sim. Certification for both entities is currently underway, further adding value for clients when they can log time in it. Its controls are largely analogous to Level D full flight sims, with tactical cockpit panels providing all the same switches and avionics expected on a real aircraft. The virtual reality component is found in the headset, which replaces the views outside the windows while blending the flight deck into a cohesive flying experience. 

“The Bell Training Academy is honored to be the official launch customer for the Veris VR Flight Simulator for the Bell 505 and provide advanced training solutions to the aircraft’s growing customer base,” said Chad Sparks, general manager, Bell Training Academy. “Our world-renowned institution aims to deliver the most comprehensive maintenance and flight training for Bell customers, and we’re excited to collaborate with TRU Simulation, another Textron business unit, to support Bell’s global network.”

"TRU is dedicated to advancing simulation technology through innovation. The Veris offers the benefits of a full flight simulator experience in a compact, cost-effective and pioneering design," said Jerry Messaris, vice president and general manager, TRU Simulation. "Furthermore, due to its innovative clean-sheet design and focus on efficiency, the manufacturing process for this simulator is highly streamlined. We eagerly anticipate the enthusiastic reception of this groundbreaking new category of simulators by the BTA, rotorcraft and fixed-wing communities."

FMI: www.TRUSimulation.com