In January 2023, Spain-based flight simulator manufacturer entrol will install its H14 FNPT II MCC simulator based on the Bell 429 at HeliSpeed Academy's base in Blackpool in the UK.

The H14 is equipped with GTN 750 and GTN 650 units, a three channel cylindrical visual system with a FOV of 200ºx40º and a vibration system to replicate the normal and abnormal flying conditions such as vortex rings, translational lift and turbulence.

This simulator will also have additional screens to conduct training in oil rigs and ships, both day and night.

The simulator is highly configured to support special onshore and offshore helicopter operations such as HTAWS, helidecks, oil rigs, ships and even complex medevac and hospital operations.

The simulator will also support HeliSpeed's special areas of training such as night vision imaging systems and night vision goggle training. The simulator will hold and support training to both EASA and UK CAA approval standards.

HeliSpeed CEO Geoff Packer says: “This B429 simulator will be the first new simulator addition to support HeliSpeed helicopter training academy packages. It allows our pilot training school to support and provide both safe, efficient and cost-effective training in the complex world of helicopter onshore and offshore operations and night vision operations training. This simulator will also enable HeliSpeed Solutions pilots in the upskilling of our contract pilots to meet all our client's mission specific requirements.”

This will be the second simulator entrol instal in the UK; the first was an H19/AW109 SP FNPT II MCC machine delivered to the Helicentre Aviation Academy in Leicester in January this year.