Blackcomb Helicopters acquires new VR flight simulator

Canadian helicopter operator Blackcomb Helicopters – which offers a range of emergency aviation services including medical evacuation, search and rescue, and firefighting – has purchased a new VR flight simulator for the H125 from Loft Dynamics.

The simulator will be based at Blackcomb Helicopters’ base at Boundary Bay Airport, near Vancouver. It is expected to boost the company’s flight training capabilities while removing the inherent safety risks and carbon emissions caused by traditional in-flight training.

The two organizations are currently working with regulator Transport Canada to ‘demonstrate the technology’s safety and training value’, Loft Dynamics said in a statement.

The simulator has already achieved flight training device (FTD) Level 3 qualification from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) – equivalent to an FTD 7 qualification from the US Federal Aviation Administration. This qualification allows pilots to complete proficiency checks, periodic H125 flight training, and operational check rides using the device.

“Our pilots regularly navigate challenging coastal and mountainous conditions, but adequately training for these scenarios is inherently dangerous,” said Chris Haslock, Blackcomb’s Director of Operations. “With Loft Dynamics’ simulators, we’re able to customisecustomize weather conditions, visual cues, and landscapes based on what is typically encountered, so it’s the exact in-flight experience without compromising safety and with zero carbon emissions.”

Loft Dynamics rebranded from its previous identity as VRM Switzerland at the end of 2022.