The two flight training device (FTD) simulators that were introduced at the Eurocopter training academies in Donauwörth and Dallas at the end of 2007 are currently undergoing an exhaustive quality control review. Before the end of the year, both simulators should receive their JAR-FSTD H (FTD level 3, FNPT(1) level III) certification for Germany, and the FAA Part 60 (FTD level 6) certification for the United States.

Both simulators will be available for at least 2,000 hours of training per year, and will be a key element in developing a high-quality training offer. They will ensure effective, safe and cost-effective training to prepare pilots for standard flights, specific missions and emergency situations. Simulators play a vital role in Eurocopter’s worldwide training strategy (see inset).
Both simulators will be up and running at the Donauwörth and Dallas training academies as soon as the quality controls and certification procedures are successfully completed.
These two simulators are the result of close cooperation between German, American and Spanish engineers from Eurocopter, the Spanish manufacturer INDRA and CAE Deutschland.
One option available is a 6-axis motion system that simulates the helicopter’s movements. Both simulators recreate exact replicas of the EC135 cockpit with displays that are compatible with night vision goggles (NVG). Plans call for training courses with third-generation NVGs.
The high resolution display system is capable of reproducing a field of view of 160° horizontally by 80° vertically. It is possible to simulate 3D scenarios such as offshore platforms, accident scenes and heliports, weather conditions, including fog, snow and clouds, and poor visibility like brownout and whiteout inside a dome six meters in diameter that provides an extraordinary level of realism.
The original equipment manufacturer (OEM) software, which can simulate a flight loop, is Eurocopter’s main contribution. Each simulator is configured to represent the most advanced version of the EC135, and the simulators will be updated on a regular basis.