WATS Interview: TRU Simulation and Training: A Leg Up on the Competition

TRU Simulation + Training’s agreement with Boeing to design and manufacture the full flight simulator (FFS) training suite for the new 777X puts the division of Textron in the first tier of training solutions providers with capabilities in general/business, military and commercial aviation.

“They did a very serious procurement and its good to see they chose us over the competition, said a beaming Ian Walsh, TRU President and CEO during a press briefing at WATS. “There is a shift occurring where customers want a deeper relationship with their training providers.”

TRU Simulation’s ongoing contract awarded two years ago to develop and supply the training suite for the single-aisle 737 Max could have been the chief reason Boeing decided to reward Tru with the 777X contract, which gives the company a major foothold in the widebody aircraft training sector.

“Clearly, they have embraced innovation and are reshaping the industry,” said Sherry Carbary, Vice President of Boeing Flight Services. “TRU’s work on the 737 Max training suite and their technical capabilities convinced us they are the right partner to develop the training suite for Boeing’s next generation twin-engine jet.”

George Karam, VP and GM, Air Transport Simulation expects the FFS and related training solutions to be delivered to Boeing Flight Services sometime before the 777X enters commercial service between 2019-2020. TRU Simulation will provide all the training equipment for the 777X to Boeing training centers worldwide.

Walsh did not downplay the enormity of the award and the revenue potential it gives TRU Simulation in the marketplace.“It’s big,” said Walsh. “We don’t talk the number side, but it is over a ten year period and these are big dollar items.”

As the new kid on the block, the award is particularly gratifying. “It is nice to be validated,” said Walsh. And being recognized by Boeing “sends a very strong message.” Asked if Tru Simulation would partner with Boeing on training programs with other airlines. “It hasn’t been discussed, but it is certainly a possibility.”

Boeing is purchasing the equipment and services for training of the 777X. The contract is for the FFS and flxed training devices.