A new partnership between Redbird, Wipaire, and Tropic Ocean Airways will enable an improved approach to floatplane training operations. Redbird’s Cessna 208 Grand Caravan full-motion CRV simulator customized with a Wipaire amphibious float kit will allow Tropic pilots to simulate operations inherent to their business. The Redbird CRV also features Wipaire’s laser gear advisory system.

“Floatplane pilots have been completely unserved when it comes to modern training technology,” said Redbird president Charlie Gregoire. “Organizations such as Wipaire and Tropic Ocean have expanded the possibilities for floatplane operations, but innovation from the training community has lagged considerably behind. This device offers floatplane pilots and training programs access to affordable technology that accurately represents their modern amphibious aircraft.” 

Tropic has designed its training program to reflect the U.S. Navy program approach and relies upon building skill sets considered to be routine through simulation. “The partnership with Redbird Flight Simulations and Wipaire to create the customized CRV [device] will allow us to drill those skill sets at an increased tempo, resulting in a higher level of standardization, accelerated training timeline, and a lower cost per pilot trained,” said Tropic CEO Rob Ceravolo.

In other news, Redbird unveiled a custom MX2 simulator with EAA Warbirds of America. The simulator is a Vought F4U Corsair designed to honor Naval aviator Capt. Thomas J. Hudner. Hudner, who flew the aircraft in the Korean War and was awarded the Medal of Honor for intentionally crash-landing the airplane to assist a downed wingman.

“We’re honored to contribute to the experience and preservation of this remarkable story,” said Gregoire. “Our hope is that this simulator will help to foster a passion for aviation among the next generation of pilots.” The Corsair simulator marks the sixth custom device from Redbird built for AirVenture and the third designed after a classic Warbird.