FACTS Training, a company which provides emergency procedures training for pilots, corporate flight attendants and engineers, has expanded its ‘decompression’ training module for crew members.

The company, which is part of the AirCare Solutions Group, has added the Reduced Oxygen Breathing Device (ROBD) to all of its training locations, enabling crew members to experience the effects of hypoxia – a hot topic at this year’s EBACE – in a controlled environment.

The ROBD can simulate altitudes of up to 30,000 feet. As part of the training, the crew member is tested for reduced visual capabilities and reduced motor and cognitive skills. Heart rates and oxygen saturation levels are measured throughout the training.

“Our goal is to always be the frontrunner in providing new and challenging training experiences for corporate pilots and flight attendants,” said AirCare ceo Doug Mykol.

The company notes that its three to six day initial training course, priced at $3,950, is also proving very popular in the US and FACTS offers the ‘only mobile motion-based corporate cockpit and cabin simulators that promote pilot, flight attendant and passenger coordination.’ As well as providing training at its own facilities, the company provides in-house training for companies worldwide.

Mykol says that one aspect of training in particular has proven to be very popular. “Although it’s not required, and is included in the cost of the initial and recurrent training, aircrew combative training is always popular.”

Mykol reports that the majority of cases where such training has been put into use by corporate air crews has been outside of aircraft. “The training takes place in a cabin environment, though, so they can deal with threats at close-quarters.”