Melbourne to become a CAE simulator training centre

CAE will install a new 5000 Series full-flight simulator in Melbourne in the first half of 2012 for training pilots and maintenance technicians for the Hawker Beechcraft King Air 350i aircraft.

"CAE continues to expand our capabilities globally in order to provide customers with the most advanced training options available in close proximity to where they operate," said Jeff Roberts, CAE's Group President, Civil Simulation Products, Training and Services.

"The Australia, New Zealand and Southeast Asia region is among the fastest growing in aviation, and we look forward to building on the established CAE presence in Australia to serve this market with business aviation training solutions such as the King Air 350i."

The FFS will incorporate the Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 integrated avionics suite; and will be qualified to Level D, the highest qualification for flight simulators, by the Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority.

Training credits are also expected for operators of King Air 200 aircraft.

Training will be provided at a location in the Melbourne area to be determined in consultation with customers in the region.

In addition to business aircraft operators, the new King Air 350i FFS is expected to be used for training military pilots in the region.

Expanding CAE's business aviation training presence into Australia continues the company's growth in the region.

CAE recently launched CAE Global Academy Perth, a joint venture with China Southern Airlines in Jandakot and Merredin, for training ab initio cadets to become airline pilots.

CAE Australia also has multiple contracts with the Commonwealth in support of the ADF.

These contracts include providing simulation equipment, maintenance support and training services for platforms such as the KC-30A Multi-Role Tanker Transport, C-130H/J transports, MRH90 helicopters, S-70B Seahawk and Sea King naval helicopters, and S-70A Black Hawk utility helicopter.

Melbourne will become one of 10 CAE locations worldwide for business aviation training.