AW139 Simulator Opens for North Sea Crews

Bristow Group and Leonardo have celebrated the operational readiness of a new AW139 Full Flight Level D Simulator at Bristow Helicopters’ simulation hall in Dyce, Aberdeen, close to the International Airport.

Developed by Leonardo and CAE through their Rotorsim Joint Venture, the system adds to an existing AW189 Level D Full Flight Simulator which is already in service, expanding the number of available simulation devices and the capabilities provided to Bristow and third-party crews.

The purpose-built centre houses simulators, six classrooms and specialist instructors, and serves Bristow’s oil and gas and Search and Rescue pilots.

The move reflects the partners’ commitment to providing service as close to areas of operations as possible, such as the North Sea, an area for long range offshore missions and Search and Rescue operations, supporting the energy industry as well as local communities.

Nigel Piercey, Bristow Head of UK Training, said: “We are delighted to see the AW139 simulator now installed at our Aberdeen Training Centre. This new simulator will provide a tremendous capability for supporting pilots as they train on the AW139 aircraft, delivering mission-critical services for our UK and international customers.”