Rega has inaugurated its own simulation capability in Zurich (operated by Lufthansa Flight Training) with the acquisition of a Reiser modular simulator, which will allow the EMS and SAR operator to carry out training across its fleet, which at present consists of H145 D2 and AW169s. The new simulator’s roll-on roll-off (RORO) cockpits mean that the company can fulfil its training needs with one simulator base.
Rega is in the midst of re-equipping its fleet, which will see the present fleet replaced by 21 H145 D3s, which will enter service over the next two years, in turn creating a huge training backlog as two-thirds of its pilots convert to the new aircraft.
Accordingly, the H145 D2 module is Level D certified by the Swiss CAA, the Bundesamt für Zivilluftfahrt (BAZL). This will be followed by Level D certification for the AW169 and H145 D3 modules, which is expected to be early in 2024.
In addition, Rega has also jointly purchased an H125 module for the simulator platform with Swiss Helicopter, which will further enhance the facility’s offerings once the D3 conversion wave has passed, as well as supporting training for the next generation of pilots. BAZL Level D certification for the H125 module is expected by the end of next year.
Heinz Leibundgut, Head of Helicopter Procedures and Training, as well as a member of the Management Board of Rega, said: “Highly trained cockpit crews are fundamental for performing rescue flights safely and successfully. In the simulator, Rega’s cockpit crews – that is, pilots and paramedics – have the opportunity to efficiently train standard situations and emergency procedures that would hardly, if at all, be possible to practice in real life. Moreover, on doing so, they neither generate noise nor pollute the environment. We are very satisfied with the newly developed simulator, which meets all our high demands.”
