Eclipse simulator approved for type ratings
By Paul Richfield
Eclipse Aviation has received FAA approval to conduct pilot type rating training and checking in full-motion flight simulators, eliminating the need to use Eclipse 500 very light jets for these purposes.
Working through Dallas-based training partner Higher Power Aviation, Eclipse said it has placed a single Level D simulator into service, with its first class of customer pilots beginning their training during the last week of January.
Subsequent classes are slated to begin every two weeks. Eclipse plans to add two additional Level D simulators “very soon,” and by April expects to operate all three devices about 20 hours per day, seven days per week. The simulators are made by Opinicus Corp.
Working at this pace, Eclipse expects to train and provide type ratings to 60 customers per month. The simulators will also be used for recurrent training, the company said. High Power Aviation used its in-house examiners to check pilots.
January 31, 2008
Related Articles
