SAF Aerogroup has made an investment in Loft Dynamics’ virtual reality (VR) flight simulation training devices (FSTDs). This acquisition of simulators enhances training programs across the company’s two academies. SAF Aerogroup will operate Loft Dynamics’ EASA-qualified Airbus H125 VR FSTD to safely and sustainably train its wide range of crews. Additionally, it will utilize the Airbus H145 VR FSTD to provide realistic and highly immersive scenario-based training for rescue pilots.

SAF Aerogroup’s new Loft Dynamics simulators will be housed at the company’s Tournon base in the Savoie, France, and will offer high-fidelity pilot training at its academy. Students now have access to Loft Dynamics’ unrestricted 360-degree 3D view, which enables precise control of the helicopter according to high-resolution references; a six-degrees-of-freedom highly dynamic motion platform, which accurately replicates the aircraft’s movements and haptic sensations, including the feeling of skids touching the ground; and a proprietary Pose Tracking System that makes cockpit operations intuitive.

"Pilots need to be able to train for the variety of scenarios they may encounter, including recovery from a vortex ring state, inadvertent IMC prevention, mountain landing with varying up and downdrafts, or sling load operation — that type of training can’t be done safely and regularly today,” said Tristan Serretta, CEO of SAF Aerogroup. “Loft Dynamics’ sims fill that critical void for us.”

“Training and checking in real helicopters come with certain risks and hinder commercial operations. The simulator enables training and checking in a safe environment at any time, independent of weather conditions,” explains Jens Westh, Chief Operating Officer at Loft Dynamics. “Training is made as realistic as possible, allowing for the simulation of malfunctions as they would occur in reality. This forces pilots to take concrete actions rather than just discussing what would be done in each situation. We are convinced that this will enhance flight safety in both the short and long term, in line with the EASA Rotorcraft Safety Roadmap.”