Kestrel Aviation

The simulator is based around the performance characteristics of the Bell 206 helicopter with the cockpit layout being identical to the Bell 206 Jet Ranger including instruments and markings.

The cabin is equipped with dual flight controls and can be flown in a dual configuration as would occur in a normal flight sortie. The radios are a little more than what can be found in a normal Bell 206 as the simulator is also an instrument trainer therefore all instrument approaches can be flown requiring the associated radio equipment. All circuit breakers switches and control functions operate exactly the same as they would in an aircraft.

Radio communications are simulated along with other functions to ensure that the pilot workloads are the same as would be experienced in a normal flight. The instructor's station is located separate to the cockpit and flight environment, the instructor has the controls to induce a variety of in-flight emergencies or weather demands. The simulator is center of gravity sensitive therefore the pilot can load the aircraft in a desired manner and as the simulator senses fuel burn off will automatically adjust the center of gravity. This is only one of the many functions that are possible.

The visual system is very realistic and ample for normal visual hovering, transition and in-flight cruise. The aerodrome layouts include obstacles and normal markings, with the added helicopter advantages of confined areas, oil rig helipads and simulated accident site with emergency vehicles in attendance. It's a good chance to practice your hover turns in 30 knot winds - try and do it without breaking into a sweat. Visual approaches are conducted with normal visual clues and in fact a full circuit can be flown all by visual reference.

The instrument training platform is challenging to say the least with demanding instrument conditions being placed in the system by the instructor, a full instrument flight can be conducted to any place in the world right down to the minima. Unfortunately not always the case in instrument training depending on what time of the year the training is conducted. All instrument approaches can be conducted including GPS NPA approaches so recency training and skill advancement for instrument rated pilots will now be a bonus use for the simulator. The dreaded instrument failures, radio failures and system emergencies are all possible during these exercises so pilots trained under these environments will be far better prepared than has been possible before with in flight training.

One of the great comforts to pilots is confidence in the knowledge that come the day there is a system failure or that they are faced with an engine malfunction, pilots will be prepared for it and act in a prompt and correct manner. The simulator offers the ability to practice repeated, emergency maneuvers until full competency is reached in any area therefore offering confidence to the candidate and preparing them should they be exposed to the real thing.