HNZ Group Partners, in Montreal, Quebec, has received Transport Canada approval on its Frasca-built AS350 Level 7 flight simulation training device (FSTD). The FSTD is convertible between three different configurations of the aircraft including the AS350 B2 analog instrument panel, the AS350 B2 vehicle and engine multi-function display (VEMD) instrument panel and the AS350 B3e VEMD instrument panel.
The Frasca device is the first Level 7 FSTD certified in Canada. While HNZ has used simulation training for its twin engine aircraft for many years, the implementation of synthetic training for current AS350/H125 series aircraft represents a deliberate and significant step in improving the safety of single engine aircraft.
Features of the FSTD include Frasca TruVision Global visual system with projection display in a totally enclosed spherical screen (200-degree x 70-degree field-of-view). Databases including the Edmonton area and specialized training scenarios at various locations in Canada will be provided.
The FSTD also includes a vibration platform, Simplicity IOS, and cargo mirror simulation.
The FSTD and classroom facilities are located in the Main Terminal building of the Edmonton International Airport. The device will be used as part of a Transport Canada approved training program for HNZ Group pilots as well as being available for dry or wet lease by other helicopter operators.
The FSTD will be available for demonstration flights at the Edmonton Airport during the HAC (Helicopter Association Canada) convention, Nov. 11 to 13.
“It is gratifying to see Level 7 approval on this innovative project with Canadian Helicopters,” said John Frasca, president of Frasca International. “Incorporating this advanced FTD into their program will enhance training and improve safety. This program should become a model for other helicopter operators throughout the world.
“We also see great potential to expose simulation and aviation safety to the general public as result of the simulator being located in the Edmonton International airport.”
“We are pleased to partner with Frasca and the Edmonton International Airport (EIA) in order to bring this FSTD to western Canada,” said HNZ’s president and CEO, Don Wall. “We believe that the introduction of this device into our training program will enhance our industry leading safety standards for the benefit of our crews and customers. Synthetic training is recognized by Transport Canada and our major customers as being a highly effective tool, and this FSTD represents the very leading edge of technology in simulated flight. As a result of this acquisition, we will realize significant safety as well as environmental and economic benefits, and we expect that other operators in the industry will also want to avail of this opportunity.”
