Germany-based RS Flight Systems (RSFS) and Austria's ATO RotorSky have achieved EASA qualification of the first F-Light Line H135 Helionix flight simulation training device.

Shortly before the end of the year, RotorSky obtained EASA qualification from the Austrian aviation authority Austro Control for its first EC135 T3H (H135) flight simulation training device installed at its headquarters in Linz airport. The 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 helicopter FNPTs and FTDs on the market, 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. The FNPT is available in two versions: a generic instrument panel layout that displays analogue instruments and the Helionix glass cockpit replica which is standard in the FTD.

The FNPT will be used for multiple ab-initio training programmes like PPL, CPL, IR and MCC. Training quality is higher as the simulator allows for additional training that for safety reasons cannot be performed in the real aircraft; it is more cost-efficient due to lower hourly rates of the simulator along with better usability even during poor weather conditions; and it contributes to more environmentally-friendly pilot training with very low energy consumption.

The FTD is designated to be used for H135 instrument rating training. Further on, upcoming new regulations will oblige technical crew members (TCM) of HEMS operations to perform initial and recurrent training on a suitable FSTD. The H135 and the very similar H145 are the main helicopter types used in HEMS operations. RotorSky will offer the FTD also for TCM training to enable the pilot's assisting crew members to keep and develop their recurrent skills.

The RSFS team is in constant exchange with flight schools, ATOs and operators of small rotorcraft fleets who 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,” says CEO Maximilian Rommel.

“We are very proud to be working together with RSFS, which managed to integrate the full Reiser Simulation and Training Level D software on a very cost-efficient FNPT cockpit," adds RotorSky general manager ATO Christian Gruber. "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 convinced to contribute to the helicopter training industry with an offer that significantly improves aviation safety, as it will boost the pilot's learning curve while being most competitive on the market.”