Safety Matters – Swiss Air-Rescue Rega Launches the Most Modern Helicopter Full-Flight Simulator

Berg, Germany / Opfikon, Switzerland November 16th, 2023

• Swiss Air-Rescue Rega launches Reiser Simulation and Training (RST) unique Helicopter Full-Flight Simulator (FFS), operated by Lufthansa Aviation Training (LAT) Switzerland in November 2023
• New Helicopter FFS incorporates interchangeable cockpits for Rega’s helicopter types, Airbus H145 and H125, and additionally the Leonardo AW169
• RST’s commitment to full-flight simulators with haptic cockpits meets with the greatest possible approval from the most demanding helicopter operators

Rega strives for new helicopter pilot and crew training levels by adopting the innovative FFS, underscoring their strong commitment to safety and sustainability in air rescue operations. The latest addition to the RST FFS family is officially handed over to Rega at the Lufthansa Aviation Training (LAT) Site in Opfikon, Switzerland, on November 16^th. 

This groundbreaking training device with roll-on/roll-off cockpit meets the high standards of Swiss authorities and incorporates the following modules:

1. 1. Airbus H145 D2 custom design cockpit, Level-D certified by the Swiss Authorities (BAZL – Bundesamt für Zivilluftfahrt) in October 2023.
      H145 D3 qualification to follow.
   2. Leonardo AW169 cockpit, developed and manufactured directly by Leonardo Helicopters, marking a significant milestone for RST, as the first OEM cockpit module integrated into the mothership according to RST’s interface.
      Level-D qualification in early 2024.

1. 1. Airbus H125 custom design cockpit set to achieve Level-D qualification in December 2024.

LAT operates the new simulator and offers available capacities to interested third parties. 

The commercial helicopter operator, Swiss Helicopter AG, and Rega have jointly purchased the cockpit module of the helicopter type, Airbus H125. This will not only enhance the quality of the training of future pilots, but also reduce both costs and the negative environmental impact. By acquiring an H125 simulator in the highest certification category, the two organizations are making a further contribution towards supporting up-and-coming helicopter pilots in Switzerland.

Dr. Johannes Hain, CEO of RST, highlights his enthusiasm for the project’s success, stating, „Our partners were extremely positive about the smooth installation of this complex system and praised our colleagues for their professional training of the Lufthansa Aviation Training maintenance engineers. Even when a project goes well, we may not take such customer feedback for granted. For the entire team that realized this flagship project and all colleagues here at Reiser, this is an encouragement to stay on track and keep the pace.“

Heinz Leibundgut, Head of Helicopter Procedures and Training as well as member of the Management Board of Rega: „Highly trained cockpit crews are fundamental for performing rescue flights safely and successfully. In the simulator, Rega’s cockpit crews – that is, pilots and paramedics – have the opportunity to efficiently train standard situations and emergency procedures that would hardly, if at all, be possible to practise in real life. Moreover, on doing so, they neither generate noise nor pollute the environment. We are very satisfied with the newly developed simulator, which meets all our high demands.“

Rega and their partners lead the way, ensuring the highest training standards for air rescue and aerial work missions by conducting their training on this unique Helicopter Simulator. The simulator’s versatility and commitment to sustainability underscore its role as a game-changer in the industry.