Marshall University unveils helicopter for aviation program

In a ceremony at the Bill Noe Flight School, located at West Virginia International Yeager Airport, the Airbus H125 single engine helicopter arrived right on schedule for the unveiling ceremony.

Marshall University President Brad D Smith said: “We are incredibly excited to add this amazing aircraft to our aviation program. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our esteemed partners at Airbus for their unwavering support and collaboration, which have propelled Marshall’s aviation program to soaring heights, making it one of the premier flight schools in the country.”

Treg Manning, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Airbus Helicopters North America, added: “The future success of the rotorcraft industry depends on providing the next generation with high-quality education and training, and Marshall University has become the benchmark for doing so.”

Bill Noe, Marshall’s Chief Aviation Officer, commented: “Adding this helicopter to our current robust fleet, as well as a futuristic simulator for rotor-wing training, will allow current and future aviators to pursue a wider range of certifications. In an area like West Virginia and Appalachia, where the terrain is challenging, helicopters are incredibly important to business and health care.”

Loft Dynamics partnership

In addition to the new helicopter, the university is partnering with Loft Dynamics to offer aviation instruction through an innovative simulator. The equipment is currently under Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) review and, once approved, will become the first in the USA to use virtual reality technology in commercial aviation training.

Marshall’s flight school prepares students through a four-year pilot program, and the Aviation Maintenance Technology program trains mechanics. Both programs lead to FAA certification.

The AirMed&Rescue team recently spoke to companies about the ways in which simulation and other equipment for pilot training is changing.