VistaJet is launching a new business aviation pilot training centre in Amsterdam, opening in Q1 2027, in association with AeronautX, an AX Aero Group company. The centre, designed for and by business aviation pilots, provides a fresh alternative for operators seeking a personalised and practical approach to training.

AeronautX is an Austrian-headquartered professional pilot education and type rating provider for regional and business jet models. AeronautX provides a variety of EASA and UK CAA-certified educational pathways for both beginners and experienced aviators.

Its purpose-built facility, near the global aviation hub of Schiphol airport, will initially support training for the Bombardier Challenger series, with additional types planned over time.

Tailored to individual and organisational requirements, every element of the training experience, from instructor engagement to facilities and technology, is designed to build pilot proficiency, confidence and operational readiness. Training programmes include initial type rating through base training, recurrent training, Type Rating Instructor (TRI) qualification and a range of operator-specific courses.

As part of the launch of the new centre, AeronautX has also entered a strategic partnership with VistaJet, supporting the operator's continued growth in Europe and investment in its expanding Challenger fleet. VistaJet will use the Amsterdam facility to support its own Challenger pilot training requirements, while AeronautX will independently provide simulator access and training programmes to other operators.

The partnership reflects AeronautX's approach of combining close collaboration with leading operators with an independent training platform that remains open and accessible to the wider business aviation market.

Programmes are developed and delivered by highly experienced, operationally current pilots with a depth of aircraft-specific expertise rarely found in the industry. Acting as both instructors and mentors, they bring first-hand knowledge of the aircraft, onboard systems and real-world operations to every stage of training.

Jörg Oberhofer, founder and CEO, AeronautX, says: “By combining innovation with real world operational expertise and a highly personalised approach, AeronautX is redefining what operators and pilots should expect from a training provider.

“VistaJet has built its reputation around exceptionally high standards of safety, service and operational consistency, making it a natural strategic partner for AeronautX. Our partnership with VistaJet demonstrates the flexible model we are building in Amsterdam: supporting the specific requirements of leading global operators while remaining an independent training provider serving operators of all sizes.”

Nick van der Meer, Vista's chief operating officer, adds: “High-quality and consistent pilot training is fundamental to our operation. Our partnership with AeronautX gives us access to the latest simulation technology and a modern, purpose-built training environment in Amsterdam, supporting the continued development of our own Challenger pilot training programme. We look forward to a successful partnership with AeronautX in Amsterdam.”

Niall Olver, chairman, AX Aero Group, continues: “Our goal at AeronautX is to deliver training within a trusted, relationship-driven environment. We believe exceptional training comes from combining advanced technology with a frictionless and exceptional learning experience. For decades, pilot training has been dominated by large, standardised providers. It is time for a new approach.”

Guided by modern training methodologies, including Competency-Based Training and Assessment (CBTA) and Evidence-Based Training (EBT), and enhanced by the latest digital learning tools, pilots benefit from faster, more effective learning.

AeronautX is part of AX Aero Group, an aviation technology business delivering end-to-end corporate aviation solutions, encompassing flight training, aircraft management and operations, simulation, technology and flight testing through its six specialised aviation brands, Axis Flight Simulation, Axis Aviation, Axis Technologies, Aeroset Flight Test, AeronautX and Propair Flight.

AeronautX's initial investment in the Amsterdam facility is approximately €40m, according to AX Aero Group chairman Niall Olver.