Chad is the editor of AINalerts, AIN's daily business aviation newsletter, and is also the news editor at AIN Media Group.&nbsp;He has been writing about aviation, with an emphasis on business aviation, since 1994. Chad started his writing career at The Avion,&nbsp;the&nbsp;student newspaper at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Florida, serving as editor-in-chief before graduating with a bachelor's in aeronautical science. After a stint as managing editor at Professional Pilot&nbsp;magazine, he joined&nbsp;AIN in late 1998. Chad holds a commercial pilot certificated with instrument and multi-engine ratings, and he also is a CFI/CFII. He lives and works from his home in Venice, Florida.

Online Editor

Airbus Helicopters BK117, EC145, and H145 series

Chad Trautvetter

Madrid-based flight simulator manufacturer Entrol is poised to deliver a level-5 Airbus H145 pilot training device to New Zealand aeromedical operator GCH Aviation. The helicopter simulator has completed the factory acceptance test, clearing the way for installation at the operator’s Christchurch International Airport (NZCH) headquarters by the end of next month.
According to Entrol, the device features the company’s Enwall Complete LED visual system to provide pilots-in-training with an immersive experience. This includes LED panels on the floor that allow pilots to maintain visual contact with the ground or the hoist area—a critical factor for helicopter operations, said Entrol.
The visual environment is powered by Entrol’s Unreal Engine-based Envision system. Its database includes nine generic airports and heliports with 3D buildings and a realistic environment, as well as a specific heliport designed with precise 3D objects to simulate real-world operational challenges.
In addition, it is equipped with a mixed-reality hoist station and a vibration system, making the device “one of the most mission-ready configurations delivered by Entrol.” This station enables coordinated pilot and crewmember training at the same time, mirroring real-world operating conditions.
GCH Aviation plans to use the simulator to enhance its pilot training capabilities, focusing on operational safety, IFR proficiency, and specialized air ambulance mission readiness.

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

Entrol To Deliver Mission-ready H145 Sim to NZ Helicopter Operator

Level-5 device has floor-mounted visual displays and mixed-reality hoist station

Flight simulator manufacturer Entrol will soon deliver and install a level-5 Airbus H145 pilot training device to New Zealand aeromed operator GCH Aviation.

Entrol To Deliver Mission-ready H145 Sim to NZ Firm

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News and issues relating to the aerospace industry that are related to the science, engineering and business of flight in space involving civil, industrial and military applications, and similar topics related to flight in the atmosphere of the Earth that are not covered more directly by other AINonline subject channels. In other words, both astronautical and aeronautical subjects, except for those aeronautical topics that are specifically covered elsewhere on this website.

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News and information on safety procedures and concerns.

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In this article

BK117/EC145/H145

Airbus Helicopters

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FAA Recommends Bizav Spatial Disorientation Training

InFO outlines recommended pilot training methods

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The Air Charter Association has appointed Claudia Schimansky as training manager

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