Modular, Flexible and Cost-Effective Solution
RS Flight Systems (RSFS) and RotorSky have achieved successful EASA qualification of the first F-Light Line H135 Helionix flight simulation training device (FSTD), the companies jointly announced on 18 January.
The EASA qualification was provided by Austrian aviation authority Austro Control late last year for RotorSky’s first EC135 T3H (H135) FTD at its headquarters in Linz. The unique, modular and upgradable F-light line trainer is a joint project of RSFS and Reiser Simulation and Training, powered by Reiser’s proven Level D software. Compared to most currently available helicopter FNPTs and FTDs, the modular F-light line H135 Helionix training devices are driven by the same Level D software as a full flight simulator (aerodynamic and engine models, avionics, visual and aural cues, etc.). Only the QTG is adapted appropriately for the nature of the target device – generic aircraft class for FNPT and type-specific for FTD. The instrument panels are a one-to-one representation of the real avionics. For customers seeking even more cost-effective solutions, however, simpler generic solutions are available.
The FNPT is available in two versions: a generic instrument panel layout that displays analogue instruments, and the glass cockpit Helionix replica, which is standard in the FTD. The FNPT will be used for multiple ab-initio training programs, such as PPL, CPL, IR and MCC. This will elevate training, providing:
• Higher training quality – the simulator allows for training unavailable in the real aircraft;
• More cost-efficient training – better simulator usability, even in poor weather conditions;
• Environment-friendly training – very low energy consumption.
The FTD is already intended for H135 instrument rating training, and upcoming new regulations will oblige crews in helicopter emergency medical service (HEMS) operations to conduct initial and recurrent training on an appropriate FSTD. The H135 (and the very similar H145) are the main platforms currently in regular HEMS use.
Maximilian Rommel, RSFS CEO, emphasises that his team is in constant dialogue with flight schools, ATOs and operators of small rotorcraft fleets. They generally cannot justify the cost of their own Level D device. “The qualification of our modular F-light line training device marks a milestone in the future of Helionix flight training”, he suggests.
Christian Gruber, RotorSky GM ATO adds, “RSFS […] managed to integrate the full Reiser Simulation and Training Level D software on a very cost-efficient FNPT cockpit. The result is a unique FTD for EC135 T3H, using real flight data for both the simulation model of the dynamics and the flight systems. RotorSky is [committed to contributing] to the helicopter training industry with an offer that significantly improves aviation safety, as it will boost pilots’ learning curve[s] while being [the] most competitive on the market”.
