Former FAA Administrator Michael Huerta checks out the Loft Dynamics VR FSTD. Photo: Meg Ellery
The US FAA has issued certification for Loft Dynamics’ H125 virtual reality (VR) flight simulation training device (FSTD), the first such certification issued by the agency. The Loft Dynamics H125 FSTD was also the first to achieve EASA approval.
Last year, the FAA installed Loft Dynamics’ simulators at its William J. Hughes Technical Center (WHTC) to advance the safety, efficiency, and environmental sustainability goals of its Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen). As part of this initiative, the agency used the simulator to conduct vertical flight safety research, including engaging hundreds of test pilots to fly the simulator.
“The FAA’s and EASA’s unprecedented qualifications of our technology reinforce the safety and fidelity of VR for pilot training,” said Fabi Riesen, founder and CEO of Loft Dynamics. “It provides a tangible path to solving the world’s pilot shortage and cultivating the next generation of high-quality pilots. We’re not paving this path alone; we’re grateful for Airbus Helicopters’ conviction in Loft Dynamics, dedication to achieving FAA qualification, and commitment to making our FSTDs available to the masses. We’re grateful to the FAA for their support and commitment to improving the trajectory of simulation technology and pilot training. This is an important initial step for modernising pilot training, and it also signifies a broader industry shift toward leveraging our VR technology to address global challenges.”
