FlightSafety International has expanded its Columbus Learning Center, increasing capacity from 14 to 20 full-flight sims to meet growing demand for aviation training.

Located next to John Glenn Columbus International airport, the expansion enables the company to train more aviation professionals from around the world and marks the latest stage in FlightSafety's continued growth in Central Ohio. Since opening the Learning Center in 1999, the company has expanded the facility several times and relocated its global headquarters to Columbus in 2021.

Ben Carter, executive vice president of Learning Center operations at FlightSafety International, says: “2026 marks two major milestones in FlightSafety's history: our 75th anniversary and the completion of the expanded Columbus Learning Center.”

He adds: “This expansion will enable us to meet the increasing demand for high-fidelity training while reinforcing our commitment to preparing aviation professionals around the world to save lives through exceptional training experiences.”

More than 125 instructors support nearly 4,000 pilots who train at the Columbus Learning Center each year, delivering around 175,000 hours of aviation training annually. Across its global network of Learning Centers, FlightSafety provides approximately 2.3 million hours of training each year.

The additional sim capacity is expected to increase annual training reservations by 42 per cent once the new sims become operational. FlightSafety employs more than 370 people in Central Ohio and says the expansion will support continued workforce growth at both the Columbus Learning Center and its global headquarters. FSI Defense, a FlightSafety International company, also provides simulation technology and training support at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio.