Atlantic Airways has inaugurated a flight training center in the Faroe Islands featuring an AW139 Reality H full-flight simulator developed with Thales. The EASA-certified level-D simulator is designed to provide pilots with a highly realistic training environment, including mission scenarios that reflect the challenging weather and terrain of the islands.

“We are proud that Atlantic Airways has entrusted us with delivering our AW139 Reality H level-D full-flight simulator, featuring the innovative integrated hoist trainer powered by mixed reality technology,” said Benoit Broudy, v-p for training and simulation at Thales. “Developed hand in hand with their flight operations experts, these systems will provide pilots and crewmembers with highly immersive and realistic training, enhancing their proficiency to handle the most complex missions.”

Incorporated in the simulator’s hoist module is a physical control grip and cable, with synchronized visual cues delivered through the ThalesView image-generation system. The winchman’s perspective is integrated with the full-flight simulator movement, supporting coordinated training between pilots and hoist operators.

Jóhanna á Bergi, CEO of Atlantic Airways, said, “The Thales [full-flight simulator] provides our pilots with an unparalleled cockpit experience, essential for mastering the operational challenges they may face in real-world scenarios. We’ve been confident from the beginning that partnering with Thales was the right decision.”

Atlantic Airways Aviation Academy can train up to 600 pilots annually, depending on the training syllabus. It supports domestic and international AW139 operators, particularly those engaged in offshore, rescue, and other complex missions.

Integrated in the simulator is the company’s patented Hexaline motion technology, including a mixed-reality hoist trainer for rear crew operations. According to the company, the simulator will be used for initial type rating, recurrent training, and proficiency checks for both VFR and IFR operations.