TRU Simulation + Training, a Textron Inc. company, and FlightSafety International have signed a letter of intent to form a joint venture to provide training for Textron Aviation's broad product line of business and general aviation aircraft. TRU and FlightSafety will combine their assets and capabilities, including their simulators, courseware and world-class teams, to support their global customers' training needs.

“The combination of our training capabilities will enable us to provide best-in-class pilot and maintenance training programmes to our customers around the world,” says David Davenport, co-CEO and president, commercial, FlightSafety International. “For more than 40 years FlightSafety has served Textron Aviation customers, and this venture will allow us to offer more flexible training options by leveraging the capabilities of both organisations. We also want to recognise Bruce Whitman's significant contributions. He was instrumental in the initial planning and actively participated in the development of this important agreement. As always, Bruce's focus was to ensure that the joint venture would benefit our customers and enhance the training they receive.”

“The new joint venture will enhance our ability to service our growing customer base,” adds Gunnar Kleveland, president of TRU Simulation + Training Inc. “With Textron Aviation continuing to expand its product portfolio with aircraft such as the Latitude, Longitude, Hemisphere, Denali and SkyCourier, it is critical we provide the full scope of training services our customers require. This joint venture will allow us to better address that demand.”

TRU will serve as the exclusive supplier of new Textron Aviation simulators to the joint venture. TRU will also continue its other operations, including the design and manufacture of training simulators and provide training solutions for the global aviation industry and military customers.

The transaction is expected to close in the next several months, subject to finalising definitive documentation and regulatory approval.