The busy event packed out the convention center with booths and stands, as well as the special educational program prepared by the organizers. As well as the regular seminars with topics that focused on safety, a women in aviation day and other issues that affect aviation generally, there were specific sessions that were of great interest to the special missions sector. On Tuesday, there was a talk on dealing with unanticipated yaw for mountain rescue teams. On Wednesday, there was a helicopter emergency medical services (HEMS) day, with several sessions covering elements that included hoisting, communication, the history of HEMS and much more. Thursday rounded off the conference with a police and aerial firefighting day, covering topics such as heavy-lift aircraft, operational challenges, and hazard reporting, among others.

Some of the highlights from the exhibiters follow.

Airbus and Østnes Helicopters

Airbus and Østnes Helicopters, the official distributor for Airbus Helicopters in the Nordic countries, announced a contract for 10 Airbus H125s. They will join a fleet of more than 150 H125s in the region.

“Nordic customers require a truly versatile helicopter which can perform a wide range of missions,” said Frode Østnes, CEO of Østnes Helicopters. “The H125 has proven that it has the capabilities time and again. Our customers in the region depend on these aircraft for essential missions and we are determined to ensure they benefit from short delivery times. This order ensures we have the best availability for the best helicopter.”

“With the contract for 10 H125s, we are proud to write another chapter in our more than 30-year partnership with Østnes Helicopters,” said Thomas Hein, Head of Europe Region at Airbus Helicopters. “The H125 is the world’s most successful single-engine helicopter and we are happy that Østnes is strongly committed to supporting our ambition to expand our market share in the Nordic region. With this agreement we look forward to further strengthening our presence in this region.” 

Air Ambulance Technology

Air Ambulance Technology (AAT), provider of bespoke emergency medical services (EMS) and VIP interiors for helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft, announced that it has had Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approval for EMS and VIP interior kits for the Airbus H145 and the EC135. This is significant for the North American market as sometimes these approvals "can take up to 14 months to go through", said Florian Müller, Business Development and Marketing for AAT; now air medical operators in the USA can benefit from AAT’s medical and VIP interiors on the popular platform.

AAT also announced an approval of a medical stretcher for heavy-weight patients. A completely new design, it is rated for aircraft and to support patients up to 150kg. This stretcher was developed to meet the needs of air ambulance operators, who are increasingly attending patients that are heavier than before, and so the stretcher is lightweight, robust, comes with more handles, and has straps and supports for patient packaging and securing during flight.

ASU and Boston MedFlight

Boston MedFlight (BMF), a nonprofit critical care transport service, announced the purchase of E3 night vision goggles (NVG) from Aviation Specialties Unlimited (ASU). 

The white-phosphor night vision image intensifier technology in E3 NVG reduces eye strain and minimizes blooming or shadowing from ground lights. E3 NVG help mitigate fatigue and potential long-term injury for operators, particularly in demanding conditions.

The white-phosphor night vision image intensifier technology in E3 NVG reduces eye strain and minimizes blooming or shadowing from ground lights

Dan Meyer, VP of Sales at ASU, said: “Boston MedFlight’s commitment to the health and safety of their pilots and clinicians is evident in their decision to purchase E3. These NVG not only improve performance but also help safeguard the wellbeing of those tasked with lifesaving missions. Boston MedFlight is one of the most respected air operations in New England and they impact a large geographic region. Countless lives are saved because of their work and that aligns perfectly with our mission to advance safety.”

“This purchase is a major investment in the safety of our employees,” said Rick Kenin, Chief Operating Officer for Transport at Boston MedFlight. “Our team is tasked with performing lifesaving missions every day, often in challenging environments. Improved visibility and reducing the weight of their equipment allows them to focus on the critical tasks of piloting our aircraft and providing patient care.”

Avincis and TracPlus

Avincis made an impact at the show with its new branding. Visitors were welcomed at the entrance of RAI Amsterdam with the stairway and escalators displaying Avincis’ new colors and logo. As well as the development of a new ‘face’ of the company, its size (with Europe’s largest emergency aerial services fleet) and growth have led to a drive for recruitment of top personnel, and they encourage people looking to develop their careers to get in touch.

TracPlus partners with Avincis to deliver next-generation operational intelligence

TracPlus was selected by Avincis to deliver operational intelligence and tracking across its fleet of around 220 aircraft. The partnership will bring together all aspects of Avincis’ operations – from emergency medical services to search and rescue and aerial firefighting – across its 180 bases onto one coordinated management platform.

John Boag, Group CEO at Avincis, said: “TracPlus stood out for their ability to seamlessly consolidate our diverse operations into a single, coherent system. Their ability to integrate hardware from existing install devices was instrumental in our decision. This seamless integration not only simplified our transition but also revolutionized how we answer the critical questions of ‘Where are my aircraft and what are they doing?’

TracPlus stood out for their ability to seamlessly consolidate our diverse operations into a single, coherent system

“With TracPlus, we’re able to achieve a level of operational visibility and efficiency which we simply couldn’t before, and we didn’t need to change any of the tracking devices already installed. This comprehensive approach to data analytics and operational intelligence has revolutionized our understanding of fleet performance, safety metrics, and operational efficiency, and ensures Avincis remains at the forefront of aerial emergency services.”

Bell and GPMS International

Bell Textron entered into an expanded collaboration and distribution agreement with GPMS International for Foresight MX, the industry’s leading predictive health and usage monitoring system (HUMS), for the Bell 407, 429, 212, and 412 series aircraft. With this agreement, Foresight MX is now a Bell-supported HUMS solution for these aircraft, and available for purchase directly through GPMS or Bell.

“Our Bell 407 customers have been thrilled with Foresight MX since the supplemental type certification (STC) was approved in 2018,” said Van Wilson, Director of Customer Support at Bell. “Subsequently, GPMS expanded its STC portfolio to include more of our platforms, including most of our in-production fleet, and we’re excited to bring these new HUMS options to operators. HUMS is a key element in our support strategy and expands on our goal of a smart connected fleet.”

Foresight MX is a hardware plus software service delivering all-in-one flight data monitoring, rotor track and balance, engine performance monitoring, and component health monitoring. The system moves data automatically post-flight and allows operators to view the health of their fleet from anywhere in the world with any browser-enabled device. With this agreement, customers can also seamlessly share data with Bell to improve remote support and gain powerful maintenance guidance.

Bluedrop Training & Simulation and Air Rescue UK

Bluedrop Training & Simulation, designer and developer of advanced training solutions, presented again this year with its innovative and state-of-the-art Portable Hoist Mission Training System (HMTS). Designed for rear-crew training on special missions, the simulator is capable of advanced live cable management, crew communication, mission rehearsal, physics of swinging loads, and seamless integration with a variety of flight training devices, NVG, and environmental conditions; is configurable to any fuselage type, on-the-fly mission changes, basic and advanced training for all levels of crew readiness; sets up in minutes; and is deployable anywhere, anytime.

In partnership, Air Rescue UK was also present demonstrating the way that the simulator helps to train rear crew in any situation that they may face in a safe and repeatable manner. It also has the benefit of providing standardization of training across the whole organization. Attending was also the first recipient of the Mike Holman Training Scholarship, which aims to bring one scholar per year up to pre-operator conversion standard as a helicopter technical crewmember for hoist operations.

Bucher Leichtbau and Savback

Savback, an independent aircraft vendor, announced a global partnership with Bucher Leichtbau, the Swiss multi-mission helicopter interiors company. This strategic collaboration underscores both companies’ commitment to customer-centered, mission-ready solutions.

Bucher Leichtbau is celebrated for its flexible, high-performance interiors, designed to meet the unique needs of private helicopter operators. Unlike government or foundation-run services, these operators often prioritize versatility to maximize aircraft usage across a range of missions – from HEMS and VIP transport to law enforcement, cargo, firefighting, and military roles. Bucher’s adaptable solutions, including the AC70 flex (for Airbus H145) and AC67 flex (for H135), give operators the agility to switch configurations effortlessly, ensuring they are always prepared for the next mission.

“This partnership is a significant step forward in our commitment to exceeding client expectations,” said Bucher’s Director Sales and Programs MIC, Rolf Kraus. “Collaborating with Savback, a company with a heritage and client focus that mirrors our own, enables us to reach a broader audience seeking versatile interior solutions that can seamlessly transition across multiple missions each day. Our shared dedication to client satisfaction and operational excellence fuels our drive to push the limits of what’s possible, positioning us to set new benchmarks in the rotary market,” he added.

This collaboration enables us to reach a broader audience seeking versatile interior solutions that can seamlessly transition across multiple missions each day

Centum

Centum, the specialist in airborne cellular signal intelligence and communications, has launched its new brand identity, marking a pivotal step in its strategy to enhance its leadership in the global aeronautical mission systems market.

Javier Chamorro, President and Founder of Centum, said: “This strategic move represents a significant step for Centum, allowing us to focus our efforts on strengthening our leadership position in the global market for mission-critical aeronautical products. We develop and provide cutting-edge products and services covering communications, navigation and surveillance for anything that flies, from drones to helicopters and to fixed-wing aircraft.”

Chamorro concluded: “This rebranding reflects Centum’s commitment to driving sustainable long-term growth and consolidating our status as a key player in the international markets.”

Centum also launched the next generation of its Lifeseeker airborne phone location system. The latest features and enhancements will make it easier and faster for search and rescue (SAR) teams to find casualties in even the most challenging terrain.

Chamorro said: “We are very clear that our job is to help SAR teams to rescue people as quickly and efficiently as possible. That is why we are fully committed to constant innovation, always looking for the latest technological developments to find new ways of enhancing Lifeseeker.”

Additionally, Chamorro announced Cellair, an aeronautical cellular communications technology that enables the deployment, control and management of a private network. In a single device, it integrates and implements all the services and protocols required to deploy a complete and fully functional private network. In turn, this enables the exchange of voice and data between the various devices connected to each other, allowing a connection to an external network through a gateway.

Dart Aerospace

Dart Aerospace has seen significant growth and was presenting its acquisition of FPT Industries and SEI Industries. This has doubled staff from 400 employees to 800, and has seen the aerospace mission-critical equipment and related services organization enhance and expand its service offering to include the firefighting technology Bambi Bucket from SEI and the float systems and fuel cells from FPT. Aerial firefighting has been associated with the Bambi Bucket for over 40 years since its introduction in 1982, and its lightweight ‘plug-and-play’ capability ensured that it was suitable for a wide range of operators from the beginning. The growing need for versatile and effective firefighting in the shadow of the threat of increasing wildfires means that this development for SEI and Dart is welcome news.

Entrol

Entrol, manufacturer of European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and FAA-certified flight simulators, showcased its latest Bell 412 FTD Level 3 simulator. The simulator, specifically purchased by Global Helicopter Service (GHS), demonstrated its advanced features and training capabilities. The simulator has been developed to replicate the specific configuration used by GHS, providing a unique training tool that mirrors real-world operations – which includes humanitarian aid, transporting injured patients, or providing support solutions to government operations.

Luis Olarte, CEO and Founder of Entrol, said: “This simulator represents a significant achievement for Entrol, being the first FTD Level 3 of this model in our portfolio. We look forward to showcasing its capabilities and providing visitors with a hands-on experience of the quality and realism we bring to helicopter training.”

Entrol also announced the sale of its first full-flight Level B simulator to the Italian-based operator Air Corporate. The simulator, based on the AW139 model, will be installed in 2026 and is designed to deliver a comprehensive training solution that covers all mission profiles, from firefighting to offshore transport. This new achievement strengthens Entrol’s position as a key provider of cutting-edge simulation technology in the aviation industry. The simulator is equipped with a customized ENVISION database, which includes mission-specific environments for firefighting, SAR, EMS, and offshore operations, providing pilots with an immersive and realistic training environment.

Entrol further announced a new milestone with the development of its latest simulator based on the AW169, a modern twin-engine helicopter renowned for its versatility in lifesaving missions, including air ambulance, law enforcement, and offshore, and executive transport. This new simulator is set to be completed by 2025.

Entrol further announced a new milestone with the development of its latest simulator based on the AW169, a modern twin-engine helicopter renowned for its versatility in lifesaving missions, including air ambulance, law enforcement, and offshore, and executive transport

The AW169 helicopter was designed to meet the rigorous demands of EMS and SAR missions. Its cutting-edge technology and advanced systems make it a complex aircraft to simulate, but Entrol has dedicated its top engineering talent to bring this ambitious project to life. “Developing a simulator for a helicopter with such advanced systems is a challenge, but it’s one that we are well prepared for,” added Olarte. “We have assigned our best engineers to this project, ensuring that the AW169 simulator will be as advanced as the helicopter itself.”

ERC System

The German electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft (eVTOL) startup ERC System was present with demonstrators for its emergency air medical aircraft, with a scaled-down model and a virtual reality (VR) demo.

The craft is purpose-built for medical use, engineered for doctors’ and operators’ needs. ERC has collaborated closely with medical experts to tailor its eVTOL to their requirements. It comes with a 450kg payload and high-wing safety design, 5.2m³ cabin and large rear door to make loading easy, ensuring fast, efficient medical transport.

Flysight

FlySight announced the showcase of its advanced OPENSIGHT automatic target recognition (ATR) system and the latest enhancements integrated in the OPENSIGHT Mission Console.

Visitors to its booth had the opportunity to experience firsthand the latest advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) driven target recognition and mission management capabilities.

The OPENSIGHT ATR system leverages advanced AI algorithms to detect and track targets in real time, even in complex environments. This cutting-edge technology enhances mission efficiency across various applications, including surveillance operations, SAR missions, military and law enforcement activities.

“Our OPENSIGHT ATR system represents a significant leap forward in aviation technology both civil and
military,” said Andrea Masini, CEO of FlySight. “By integrating AI-driven target recognition with our open architecture design, we’re providing operators with unparalleled precision and flexibility in mission-critical scenarios.”

By integrating AI-driven target recognition with our open architecture design, we’re providing operators with unparalleled precision and flexibility in mission-critical scenarios

Complementing the ATR system, FlySight also showcased the latest enhancements to its OPENSIGHT Mission Console. New features include a mini-map within the video feed and split-screen functionality; footprint heatmap technology for optimized search patterns; Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) data integration for improved airspace awareness; and Data Distribution Service (DDS) implementation for networked operations. These advancements are designed to streamline workflows and boost operational effectiveness for aviation professionals across various sectors.

Leonardo, Bristow and OHS

Bristow Group, the vertical flight solutions provider, and Leonardo announced that they have finalized a series of long-term agreements that will enhance global fleet support and training for the AW139 and AW189 helicopters, extending into the next decade. These agreements reinforce the strong relationship between the two companies and provide continued support for operations in key markets.

The finalized package includes the following support highlights applicable to Bristow’s global fleet:

Enhanced power-by-the-hour (PBH) agreements for SAR operations and offshore energy services (OES) helicopters, providing tailored maintenance and operational efficiency

A long-term AW189 simulator training agreement in Aberdeen, Scotland, supporting critical pilot training needs

The introduction of an AW139 full-flight simulator in Aberdeen beginning in 2026, alongside the existing AW189 simulator, complementing an already robust training center to support fleet operations in the North Sea

An enhanced global fleet support agreement, covering key performance indicators (KPIs), inventory management, training, HUMS, and other Leonardo-provided services.

Bristow will introduce four new AW189 helicopters into its OES business, scheduled to enter service in 2025 and 2026. The four new AW189 helicopters are part of a previously announced order earlier this year and are expected to provide added flexibility to Bristow’s fleet planning as well as diversification across Bristow’s fleet mix.

Offshore Helicopter Services UK (OHS) is set to further strengthen its contribution to the growing demand for modern, effective rescue missions supporting the energy industry sector in the North Sea with the future introduction of two Leonardo AW139 intermediate twin helicopters. These aircraft are expected to enter into operation during Q2 of 2026. The new AW139s will reinforce the 24/7 emergency responsiveness capability of the operator to save lives in the offshore sector in the extreme conditions of the North Sea, promptly taking off from OHS’ base in Aberdeen.

The significant experience gained by OHS over the years has allowed a continued refinement of SAR and medical evacuation procedures to meet the emerging and evolving requirement of the energy industry. 

OHS Managing Director Andy Rodden said: “The SAR service supports around 10,000 workers and crews have attended almost 1,000 callouts over the last 10 years.

“Given the service is so vital, our teams need access to the best equipment available. We have collaborated with the offshore energy sector and Leonardo for the past 12 months to design the new helicopters and equip SAR crews with the latest technologies, including input from industry technical leads, flight crews, engineers and medical staff.

“This investment will help ensure our crews are best prepared to respond to incidents at any time.”

Loft Dynamics

Loft Dynamics, provider of VR flight simulation training devices (FSTDs), announced a suite of industry-shaping features to more efficiently and effectively address the global pilot shortage and high rates of training-related accidents. Central to this is LofTWIN, a virtual demonstration mode that digitizes flight instruction from world-renowned pilots and instructors from aircraft original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). This tool makes their expertise immersive, accessible, and scalable across Loft Dynamics’ global network of simulators. Additionally, Loft Dynamics is introducing new simulations – including NVG and whiteout/brownout conditions – that make skill- and scenario-based training safer and simulations more realistic.

“Our VR FSTDs have made realistic and safe pilot training drastically more accessible and affordable, but hardware alone isn’t enough,” said Fabi Riesen, Founder and CEO of Loft Dynamics. “The industry faces a global pilot shortage, pandemic-related retirements, and rising demand for air transport – issues compounded by the high costs and limited availability of safe yet effective training solutions. LofTWIN addresses these challenges on a new level by making world-class instruction more accessible and scalable. More than just a tool, LofTWIN is a powerful knowledge-sharing platform that captures and disseminates invaluable expertise to improve training for the next generation of exceptional pilots. It’s the first in a series of upcoming software innovations aimed at democratizing the best pilot training resources.”

LofTWIN addresses these challenges on a new level by making world-class instruction more accessible and scalable

Additionally, Loft Dynamics announced the readiness of its new H145 simulator, adding another platform to the provision of its H125 simulator.

Norwegian Air Ambulance 

Although not exhibiting at a booth, the Norwegian Air Ambulance had a strong presence at the event with many speakers during the sessions for the Safety Program. Thomas Nordgaard Dahle, Andreas Hjert and Erik Normann all contributed to the HEMS sessions. 

Norwegian Air Ambulance is currently collaborating with Airbus on the applications and considerations needed for the introduction of eVTOLs into the air medical sector in Norway, which has very specific needs as a result of the distribution of its physical and human geography. The introduction of eVTOLs is considered inevitable, so Norwegian Air Ambulance is keen to be there early, influencing the right direction for the craft and infrastructure so that the niche that eVTOLs fill will place patient safety as the first priority, as well as then improve environmental conditions and prove fiscally responsible and sustainable.

Robinson Helicopter Company and Ascent AeroSystems

At its booth were both helicopters from Robinson and drones from its subsidiary, Ascent AeroSystems, a manufacturer of a unique compact, high-performance, coaxial uncrewed aerial system. The company also showcased its improved symmetric horizontal stabilizer, which (already approved by the FAA) is in the validation process with EASA. The development and testing of the new empennage design spanned several years, resulting in enhanced handling characteristics during high-speed flight.

“The European market is vital to Robinson Helicopter’s continued growth. By participating in events like European Rotors 2024, we strengthen our relationships with our dealers, service centers, and customers,” said David Smith, President and CEO of Robinson Helicopter Company. “This event allows us to share industry insights, showcase our latest product improvements like the symmetrical horizontal stabilizer, and collaborate on future projects.”

Emphasizing the continuing development of safety technology at Robinson and highlighting its support for its customers, Smith added: “We’re particularly interested in making people more aware of [the horizontal stabilizer] technology that we’ve rolled out of the factory. All the new aircraft that we produce in the world, except those currently going to EASA countries, are all already configured with the new stabilizer. We’re doing the same thing in the aftermarket side; if you buy a tail now, you get it as a part of that.” Smith said that he expected EASA to approve the stabilizer soon, so that the European market would also shortly benefit from this enhancement.

He went on to explain that the Ascent system is a complementary craft that particularly adds safety and efficiency benefits to special missions operators (like the law enforcement agencies) when deciding to commit other assets to a mission, such as a force multiplier on SAR missions, helping to direct helicopters where they are needed most, saving time and operational resources.

Rotortrade

Rotortrade announced its role as the founding partner of the Fred North Helicopter Safety Mentorship Program. This initiative aims to elevate safety standards within the global helicopter community.

The Safety Mentorship Program is led by Fred and Peggy North, in collaboration with a group of ‘ambassadors’ – the most seasoned pilots in the industry. These ambassadors will vet and recruit a pool of mentors who will guide young pilots, providing them with the knowledge, support, and tools needed to build successful and safe careers in aviation. 

“At the heart of this program is the drive to create a respectful and secure environment where pilots can share their doubts, mistakes or feel free to ask any questions or discuss any mission without fear of judgments,” said Fred North. “Our objective is to foster a culture of safety that strengthens the helicopter community globally.”

Philippe Lubrano, Founder and CEO of Rotortrade, said: “At Rotortrade, safety has always been at the forefront of our operations, and we are honored to be the Founding Partner of the Fred North Helicopter Safety Mentorship Program. This initiative will make a lasting impact on the next generation of pilots by fostering a culture of learning and safety. By connecting young pilots with seasoned mentors, we are proud to support the continuous improvement of safety standards within the helicopter community worldwide.”

Smith Myers

Smith Myers, a cellular communications solutions provider, has been honored with a King’s Award for Enterprise Innovation 2024.

Recently selected for several major UK, European and North American SAR and coast guard programs, ARTEMIS provides a new and mission-critical capability to aircrew/first responders and is deployed around the world in maritime patrol, border control, aerial firefighting and natural disasters. 

“It was an immense honor on behalf of the entire Smith Myers team to speak with the King, who, as a pilot with flight experience of rescue helicopters, showed genuine interest in the ARTEMIS SAR solution,” said Co-Founder and Director Peter Myers.

“ARTEMIS is a perfect example of how our team applies industry-leading cellular technology to provide a meaningful solution to a real-world problem,” said Andrew Munro, Managing Director. “As the first system of its type, ARTEMIS continues to lead the market worldwide. Close work with our expanding customer base has seen several spirals of capability innovation already. Simply put, ARTEMIS saves more lives, faster.

ARTEMIS is a perfect example of how our team applies industry-leading cellular technology to provide a meaningful solution to a real-world problem

“Everyone at Smith Myers should be very proud of this prestigious recognition of their work,” he added.

Also at the booth, Smith Myers was promoting ARTEMIS+, an enhancement to the base system that adds more tools, functionality and mapping options to reflect and respond to the new operational roles that service providers are asking of the technology.

SPAES

At the event, SPAES was promoting its MD 902 Medical Rack, designed to optimize space, improve accessibility, and securely store essential medical equipment for fast and efficient care during flights. Tailored for HEMS, it provides a robust, adaptable, and certified system that ensures critical devices are always within reach, enabling medical teams to focus on what matters most: saving lives.

Extolling the benefits of the system, SPAES said that it means that essential medical devices are within easy reach, allowing for rapid response during emergencies; cabin space is optimized by securely storing multiple medical units without clutter; movement of critical equipment is prevented during flight, ensuring reliability and minimizing damage risk; there are flexible configuration options to adapt to specific mission needs, enhancing operational versatility; it facilitates efficient treatment by keeping necessary devices accessible and organized; and it is easy to clean and install or remove. 

Swiss-AS

Swiss-AS exhibited at the show, publicizing its AMOSeTL. The AMOSeTL’s aim is to streamline aviation maintenance and operations. Although many of Swiss-AS’s customers are fixed-wing operators, it told AirMed&Rescue that the reason for its presence at European Rotors was to demonstrate to rotary-wing and mixed fleet operators that its solution would also be applicable to them, saving them time and money on their operational management.

Providing examples of rotary-wing and mixed fleet customers who already benefit from the systems and services of Swiss-AS, it said that its customers were also not just European but a diverse portfolio, including many special missions operators: Rega; Gulf Helicopters; Luxembourg Air Ambulance (LAA); DRF Luftrettung; Polizeihubschrauberstaffel Bayern (PHuStBy); and Air Greenland. 

AMOS has many features that allow users that perform varied missions with functions such as Mission Config, which allows them to select the current mission configuration, and can then be used to control which inspections or requirements may be valid accordingly. With Configuration Control, customers can ensure that the aircraft configuration is correct according to many parameters, such as modification status, critical when components are being removed and installed frequently depending on the planned use of the aircraft. These functions are not exclusive to rotary wing operations; when performing medevac or SAR it is not uncommon to have to change the aircraft configuration accordingly.

AMOS also enables the customers to control components that are regularly installed and removed, with only their installed time counting towards inspection requirements, as well as storage controls, ensuring that all equipment is maintained in a serviceable condition.

TRU Simulation

TRU Simulation has been experiencing growth across all global markets. Recent news that it has delivered a full-flight simulator to the Royal Flying Doctor Service in Australia marks an indication that demand in the special missions sector for TRU’s products and services is strong. As a subsidiary of Textron, TRU caters for Bell, Cessna, and Beechcraft platforms, which are widely used across the different aspects of special missions. Jerry Messaris, Vice President and General Manager at TRU Simulation, told AirMed&Rescue: “We specialize in customized devices, we look for customers who have special needs, like the Royal Flying Doctor Service, and we’re delivering [a simulator] to Canada to a group that does all different types of air medical work. They have large fleets and so are in a position to internalize that training.” 

We specialize in customized devices, we look for customers who have special needs

TRU’s recent product launch of the Veris VR flight simulator (with the Bell 505 as the initial aircraft that it reflects, an aircraft that has had many recent sales globally to SAR, aerial firefighting and police operators, and to enhance military training) means that TRU is supplying a need that is being called for. The approvals for the VR simulator are “right around the corner”, said Messaris, probably in Q1 of 2025.