The dynamic development of computer technologies has enabled fundamental changes in the training of helicopter pilots. Before students sit in a real flying machine, they must test all pre-flight and later flight processes in a simulator. Not only does it save time and money, but it is also extremely safe. “In total, we have 5 simulators for different types of helicopters. Students will learn all the safety procedures they cannot try on a real helicopter flight. For example, a computer can simulate an engine failure. We will teach them how to land safely, “explains Lukáš Rácz, manager of flight simulator operation at Slovak Training Academy. This experience is then invaluable in real flights, where the pilot does not have time to think about the progress of individual steps and must act immediately. “The simulator can prepare a person for this situation or detect his failure and thus save people’s health and lives. Simulators are also invaluable for investigating incidents, accidents and disasters, “says Marek Češkovič from the Avionics Department of the Faculty of Aviation of the Technical University in Košice.

At present, almost every helicopter training is started by training on the so-called progress simulator. Starting and stopping a machine as complex as a helicopter properly is extremely important. “Each of our students must spend at least 11 hours in the simulator. According to our curriculum, they go through all the specific procedures, each of which is followed by a test, where they have to demonstrate it themselves without the help of an instructor, ”explains Lukáš Rácz. A professional flight simulator is a combination of powerful computer hardware and tailor-made software. Many of these devices are unique in their composition and settings. In the private aviation academy STA, for example, they use a precise graphical interface and maps of Košice Airport. The progress simulator for the MD-530 helicopter was built, so to speak, on a green field based on the specific requirements of the client. “It was not easy. We had to tweak the hardware with the software. All touch screens exactly copy the control interface in the cockpit, ”adds Rácz.

The computer, in cooperation with the instructor, can also prepare future pilots for various situations, such as extinguishing forest fires or evasive maneuvers. The attractiveness of flight simulators was also reflected in the large selection of commercial software and games for the general public. Over the last 30 years, a number of game titles with an aviation theme have been created. However, according to the expert, the difference between a professional simulator and a game is abysmal. “The game cannot guarantee the exact interface and location of the controls or the exact procedure of the starting sequence. The flight characteristics of helicopters also do not correspond to reality, “states Lukáš Rácz. “Simulators are a sensible economic and safety choice, their benefits are unquestionable and their potential is essentially unlimited. The development of technologies is gradually blurring the difference between a simulated and an actual scenario, “adds Marek Češkovič.

Slovak Training Academy is a unique training center for training helicopter pilots. We have more than 20 helicopters available in our fleet, including 4 legendary American UH-60 BlackHawk. Training on simulators of take-off procedures, flight and navigation has now become the basis for any flight training. “We can adapt to the requirements of our clients and adjust the simulators as needed. At present, we have modern technology for preparatory training for Bell 206, UH-60 Blackhawk, AS 350 and MI17 helicopters, “adds Lukáš Halás, managing director of STA.