Spanish simulator developer entrol has launched the H1000, its first AATD helicopter simulator based on the Bell 505.

The H1000 AATD simulator features a glass cockpit, including a B505 console, systems, procedures and flight controls. It is also equipped with an entrol G1000 replica that is able to reproduce normal, abnormal and emergency operating procedures that can be accomplished at the appropriate AATD scope.

With different customisation options to fill the needs of a wide variety of customers, the H1000 features pilot's flight controls, fibreglass resistant cockpit, a compact instructor station and an entrol 3TV immersive visual system.

The B505 is known for its flexibility and versatility to perform in a wide variety of situations, such as initial helicopter training, external load missions, charter flights or tourism, which reflects the agility and adaptability of the rotorcraft.

“With the release of this new device, we want to increase the offer of high-quality helicopter AATD simulators in the North American market,” comments sales director Nacho Navacerrada. “We believe the H1000 will be an indispensable training tool for helicopter academies in the near future.”

The company has also opened a new US maintenance centre in Denver, Colorado. This expansion has been performed in collaboration with Sunny Communications, which has provided entrol's team with part of the facilities and equipment required.

This new maintenance centre will also include entrol's US showroom, featuring Sunny Communications' entrol H11 FTD Level 5 simulator, based on the EC135.

From this maintenance centre, entrol's experienced personnel, trained in entrol's base in Madrid, will be able to fix and coordinate possible bugs, offes remote and telephonic maintenance support and deliver spares for US timezone customers.

"With this new US based maintenance centre we want to fulfill the needs of the American market with the efficiency expected from an US based corporation. We believe this is the next logical step to increase our presence in the American continent and continue the growth entrol has been experiencing. entrol is fully committed to maintaining a quality service after the sale of the equipment,” states Luis Olarte, CEO and co-founder of entrol.