FARNBOROUGH, UK – HeliOperations (HeliOps) has signed an agreement with REISER Simulation and Training GmbH for the delivery of an AW139 Flight Training Device (FTD) and a stationary hoistAR® extended reality training system, expanding its synthetic training capabilities for military helicopter crews.
Signed during the Farnborough International Airshow, the agreement includes REISER’s newly developed Next Generation Flight Training Device (NG-FTD), configured to simulate the Leonardo AW139 in its Phase 8 standard. The modular platform is designed to be tailored to specific aircraft, operational missions, and customer training requirements.
The package also includes a stationary hoistAR® system for immersive helicopter hoist-operator instruction. While both systems can operate independently, they can also be interconnected to enable coordinated pilot and hoist-operator mission training within the same simulated environment.
Supporting German Navy helicopter training
The new simulators will support HeliOperations’ seven-year Basic Flight Training programme for German Navy pilots preparing to transition to the NH90 Sea Lion and NH90 Sea Tiger fleets. The synthetic devices will complement classroom instruction and live day-and-night flying conducted using the company’s AW139 training helicopters.
The acquisition forms part of HeliOperations’ broader strategy to expand its facilities in Portland, Dorset, into one of Europe’s leading independent military rotary-wing training centres. The company combines military-qualified instructors, UK Civil Aviation Authority and Military Aviation Authority approvals, an expanding AW139 fleet, and growing synthetic training infrastructure to deliver integrated training services for defence customers.
Steve Gladston, CEO of HeliOperations, said: "The investment forms part of HeliOperations’ wider strategy to create one of Europe’s leading independent military rotary-wing training centres. Operating from Portland, Dorset, the company combines military-qualified instructors, CAA and UK Military Aviation Authority approvals, a growing fleet of Leonardo AW139 helicopters and expanding synthetic training capability to deliver advanced pilot, aircrew and mission training for defence customers. The addition of the REISER systems further enhances HeliOperations’ ability to provide integrated live and synthetic training within a modern, operationally focused training environment."
Next-generation simulator platform
The NG-FTD incorporates a high-fidelity AW139 simulation model supplied by Leonardo Helicopters through its cooperation with REISER. Integrated into the company’s Modular Simulation Framework, the system reproduces aircraft systems and flight characteristics while supporting advanced mission training.
Key features include full Night Vision Goggle (NVG) capability, a six-channel high-resolution projected visual system, and motion and vibration cueing to improve realism and pilot immersion.
The platform has been designed to support qualification up to EASA FTD Level 3 and FAA FTD Level 7, depending on customer requirements. It has also been developed to align with EASA’s new Flight Simulation Training Device Capability Signature (FCS) framework, which emphasizes capability-based qualification tailored to operational training needs.
Dr. Johannes Hain, CEO of REISER, said: "Understanding the customer’s mission is the starting point for every REISER training system. This project shows how we translate complex operational requirements into customer-specific, future-ready solutions. We are proud to support HeliOps and to expand our presence in the UK rotary-wing training market."
About HeliOperations : HeliOperations provides military and civilian rotary-wing training, including live flight instruction from its Portland heliport and synthetic training at its simulator facility in Culdrose. The company also delivers operational support, equipment, regulatory services and aviation management for governments, commercial operators and private customers.
About REISER Simulation and Training : REISER develops advanced simulation and training systems for civil and military aviation, ranging from high-fidelity flight simulators to extended reality training solutions. The German company specializes in scalable, certifiable training environments designed to improve operational readiness, safety and mission effectiveness for aviation operators worldwide.
