FlightSafety International (FSI) is to establish a full-service learning centre at the UK’s Farnborough Airport, with training scheduled to begin next year. FSI says the centre will bring advanced flight simulators and training systems closer to many business aircraft operators.

A spokesman said: “The comprehensive resources of our simulator design and manufacturing organisation in Tulsa will permit the rapid development of a diverse selection of JAA-approved training programmes and simulators for the new centre at Farnborough.”

TAG Aviation has been involved in

a five-year project to develop Farnborough into a major business aviation centre in Europe. In January of this year, the company received CAA certification of the airfield, which led to the finalisation of TAG’s 99-year lease on the property. In addition to runway improvements and ILS installation, the design of a new terminal and office complex will be completed soon.

TAG Aviation’s ceo Roger McMullin said: “FlightSafety’s decision to make a major commitment to Farnborough not only validates our belief in the important role the airfield will play in the future of business aviation in Europe, but also complements our objective to transform Farnborough into a leading centre for business aviation services in Europe.

“We are equally enthusiastic about the number of good jobs that will be added to the local economy and the associated benefits that FlightSafety’s presence will bring to the Rushmoor community.”