Blackcomb Helicopters, a tour and utility company in the Pacific Northwest and Western Canada, has acquired a simulator from Loft Dynamics to increase its flight training capabilities while also removing the inherent safety risks and the carbon emissions of in-flight training. Both companies will work closely with Transport Canada to demonstrate the technology's national safety and training value.

Blackcomb Helicopters will operate the VR Airbus H125 training device at its Boundary Bay airport location near Vancouver. The simulator is an exact replica of the Airbus H125 helicopter, its most widely used aircraft. Equipped with a 3D high-resolution panoramic view, dynamic six-degrees-of-motion platform and full-replica cockpit featuring a unique pose tracking system, the simulator offers realistic and intuitive operation. It is the world's first and only qualified VR flight simulation training device (FSTD), enabling pilots to complete proficiency checks, periodic H125 flight training and operational check rides.

"Our pilots regularly navigate challenging coastal and mountainous conditions, but adequately training for these scenarios is inherently dangerous," says director of operations Chris Haslock. "With Loft Dynamics' simulators, we're able to customise weather conditions, visual cues and landscapes based on what is typically encountered, so it's the exact in-flight experience without compromising safety and with zero carbon emissions. It's a complete game-changer."

"We're thrilled to partner with a respected helicopter operator like Blackcomb," adds Loft founder and CEO Fabi Riesen. "Our technology has significantly improved pilot safety and skills in complex conditions and scenarios, whether it's search and rescue missions in the Swiss Alps or heli tours in the Colorado Rockies. We look forward to bringing these benefits to Blackcomb and working together to showcase a more sustainable, safe and scalable future for aviation in Canada and beyond."