Mercy Flight Central has signed the first training contract for the AW119Kx IFR helicopter, utilising Leonardo's state-of-the-art VxR simulator to enhance pilot training and operational readiness.

Recently approved by the FAA as a Level 7 simulator, the VxR will significantly improve the New York state-based aeromedical nonprofit organisation's flight training programmes. With this agreement, Mercy Flight Central takes a major step toward advancing helicopter air ambulance flight training methodologies. The contract provides Mercy Flight Central pilots with an immersive and risk-free environment to refine flight skills in critical mission scenarios, tasks that would be too dangerous to perform in a real helicopter.

“The use of the AW119 IFR VxR simulator signifies a crucial step toward transforming Mercy Flight Central's training and safety protocols,” remarks Fabrizio Peano, Leonardo's VP of simulation and training. “This cutting-edge synthetic training device provides dynamic, immersive training scenarios replicating real-life emergencies, empowering HAA pilot professionals to sharpen their skills in a safe, controlled environment. This enhancement in training will boost their readiness, response times and safety in critical situations, instilling confidence in their quality of care.”

“The opportunity to train in the AW119 Level 7 simulator will increase the overall readiness of our pilots, giving each of them the confidence in and enhancing their flying skills as they fly and serve our communities through life-saving critical care transport,” adds Scott Armstrong, Mercy Flight Central's director of flight operations.

The VxR leverages Leonardo's expertise in simulator design and mission support, utilising native helicopter data for the highest fidelity. Its compact footprint supports single-engine (VFR and IFR) and light-twin-engine helicopters, ensuring highly accurate pilot perception and control handling for single-pilot operations. This technology improves training effectiveness and safety, also allowing crews to train collaboratively through interconnected simulators cost-effectively.

The design and certification capabilities, combined with genuine flight test data, ensure compliance with stringent FTD Level 7 FAA requirements, solidifying Leonardo's commitment to next-generation training solutions that enhance mission readiness and operational efficiency.