FlightSafety International and Abu Dhabi Aviation have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a world-class Learning Center in Abu Dhabi.

“FlightSafety is pleased to partner with Abu Dhabi Aviation to establish a new Learning Center,” said Bruce Whitman, President & CEO. “It will set a new standard of excellence for aviation training in the Middle East. FlightSafety’s industry-leading flight simulators and proven instructional technologies, along with Abu Dhabi Aviation’s experience and expertise in aircraft operations, will ensure that pilots and maintenance technicians receive the highest quality training designed and delivered according to their specific needs.”

“The Learning Center is aligned with the UAE capital Abu Dhabi vision to be a major aviation hub and center of excellence for training,” said Nadir Al Hammadi, Chairman, Abu Dhabi Aviation. “Partnering with FlightSafety will ensure the Center delivers the best possible training. We will provide flight and ground school training to all sectors of aviation for civilian and military aircraft.”

The first phase of the Learning Center is scheduled to open in September 2015. It will accommodate eight full flight simulators and feature classrooms equipped with advanced technology training systems. The Center will offer training for a wide variety of helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft and serve operators of business, commercial and military aircraft. Phase two will increase the overall size of the complex by 6,800 square meters, and the number of flight simulators to 17.

The new FlightSafety FS1000 simulators will be equipped with the company’s latest advancements in technology. They include the VITAL 1100 visual system, electric motion control and cueing, and advanced instructor operating station. Classrooms and other specialized areas for self-paced and instructor-led learning will feature MATRIX, FlightSafety’s integrated training technology.

Abu Dhabi Aviation was established in 1976, and has grown to become the largest commercial helicopter operator and aircraft Maintenance Repair and Overhaul facility in the Middle East. The company serves the offshore oil, engineering and construction industries throughout the region.

New USAF contract for Gulfstream aircraft

In further news, FlightSafety International has been awarded a new contract from the United States Air Force to provide training for Gulfstream aircraft for up to 5 years. This is subsequent to a similar contract awarded to FlightSafety in 2009.

“FlightSafety is honored to serve the men and women in the United States Air Force who operate and support Gulfstream aircraft,” said Bruce Whitman, President & CEO. “This contract award demonstrates FlightSafety’s proven ability to meet the stringent requirements of the Air Force and to offer the best overall value. FlightSafety is proud to have served the United States Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Coast Guard, and other government agencies since the 1960s.”

FlightSafety will provide training for Gulfstream GIII, GIV, GV and G550 aircraft using its fleet of advanced flight simulators and other training equipment and systems at its Learning Centers in Dallas, Long Beach, Savannah and Wilmington. The company expects to deliver more than 800 courses during each year of the contract. They include a wide range of courses for pilots, flight engineers, and aircraft maintenance technicians, as well as crew emergency training.