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Conair Group Inc. announced that the certification process for the AT-802 Level 5 flight training device (FTD) has been completed and approved by Transport Canada. Conair’s simulator is convertible, designed to mimic the performance of both the amphibious Fire Boss and wheeled Air Tractor AT-802, providing pilots with a virtual training platform that offers true-to-life flight scenarios, including firefighting missions.
Equipped with real avionics, a KAWAK throttle quadrant and Retardant Delivery System, the simulator has displays identical to the cockpit of the actual aircraft. flight control feedback and all instrumentation react to changing environments, with wind speed, visibility, temperature, clouds and turbulence being controlled on the master instructor operating station. The training device allows the pilot to practice tactics within a variety of situations, while managing the added pressure of simulated radio communications from multiple aircraft on the same mission.
The FTD also features a 180-degree high-definition visual display, vibration system and programable firefighting scenarios, enabling pilots to practice a range of fire suppression techniques within immersive and dynamic circumstances. A key advantage of the simulator includes the pilot’s ability to practice drops and scoops in complex, and often unpredictable, conditions. In addition, pilots have the opportunity to exercise emergency procedures within a safe setting that significantly reduces the risk to both the pilot and the aircraft.
The AT-802 FTD is cost effective comparative to inflight sessions and the location of the simulator in Conair’s Training + Tactics Centre in Abbotsford, B.C. enables pilots in North America to stay closer to home for training. The AT-802 FTD is available to qualifying air tractor operators, ensuring pilots have access to training tools that produce safer missions in real world operations.
