Leading developer of virtual reality flight simulation devices for pilots across the globe, Loft Dynamics has partnered with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Loft Dynamics VR flight simulators are the only ones with regulatory approval in Europe, while the FAA is presently evaluating its simulators in the US.
Presently, the FFA is looking into training US pilots on Loft Dynamics’ Airbus H125 and Robinson R22 simulators. Both of the simulators are now available at the FAA’s innovation hub, the William J. Hughes Technical Center where the administration will use the simulators to improve aviation safety, capacity and efficiency.
The FAA also hopes to use the simulators to reach environmental sustainability goals and evolve the National Airspace System. With the simulator’s unique features, the FAA will research enhancements in vertical flight safety.
Traditional training can’t meet demand
Loft Dynamics founder and CEO Fabi Riesen said, “The adoption of VR flight simulators by international safety agencies like EASA and FAA is crucial given the current landscape. The world needs more than 600,000 new pilots in the next 20 years, and the emergence of electric vertical takeoff and landing vehicles (eVTOL) will significantly add to that demand. Traditional training options absolutely cannot keep up. We need innovation to solve this quickly, and that’s what we’re on a mission to do.
“To receive approval from EASA and now introduce our technology to the FAA is an exciting and important milestone. We’re thrilled to kick off this partnership and collectively forge a safer, more scalable, and sustainable future for US aviation.”
Loft Dynamic’s Airbus H125 simulator was exhibited at APSCON 2023 in Orlando, Florida on July 20th and 21st. The exhibit included a full-scale replica and 360-degree view. Also, exhibit attendees were able to book a demo in advance or visit the booth to learn about Loft Dynamics.
While the FAA and Loft Dynamics focus on VR sim training for pilots, another form of XR training exists. Red 6’s ATARS lets pilots train using AR.
Jack Brassell is a freelance journalist and aspiring novelist. Jack is a self-proclaimed nerd with a lifelong passion for storytelling. As an author, Jack writes mostly horror and young adult fantasy. Also an avid gamer, she works as the lead news editor at Hardcore Droid. When she isn't writing or playing games, she can often be found binge-watching Parks & Rec or The Office, proudly considering herself to be a cross between Leslie Knope and Pam Beasley.
