Charlotte Bailey joined AIN’s editorial team in 2025 as a news reporter covering multiple topics including business aviation, new technology and the defense sector. She is also a frequent presenter in AIN’s video news reports. 
UK-based Charlotte has a strong interest in vintage military jets and in 2023 published a book about the de Havilland Vampire, as well as serving as a consultant on the topic for TV and movie projects. She is keen to expand her flying experience and enjoys hands-on assignments worldwide. In 2024, Charlotte was honored as Best New Journalist in the Aerospace Media Awards. Early in her career, Charlotte was involved in manufacturing customized hot air balloons.

News Reporter 

Charlotte Bailey

Leonardo Helicopters has opened a new building dedicated to flight simulator production at its training academy in Sesto Calende in northern Italy. According to the company, this facility augments the simulator design and manufacturing activity already at the site and “further establishes Sesto Calende as a development and production hub for simulation systems across the company’s rotary-wing business.”
Leonardo said the new 6,000-sq-m (64,358-sq-ft) facility will bring together simulator design and production specialists currently working elsewhere around the site, including engineers, software developers, assembly technicians, pilots, and program managers. The first simulators to be manufactured in the building are destined to serve operators in Italy and Asia.
Meanwhile, the company continues to expand capabilities for simulator development, including in collaboration with specialist companies such as training provider CAE. Leonardo’s academy at the site trains pilots, crews, operators, ground staff, and maintenance personnel.

News about simulators and training procedures, as well as workforce.

Leonardo Expands Flight Simulator Production in Sesto Calende, Italy 

New building increases capacity for onsite simulator assembly

Leonardo Helicopters has opened a new building at its training academy in Sesto Calende, in northern Italy, dedicated to flight simulator production. 

Leonardo Expands Sesto Calende Flight Sim Production

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In this article

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