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Conair Group Inc. is pleased to announce the integration of three additional flight training devices (FTDs) into its Mission Training System (MTS) platform, used to train aerial firefighting pilots in a simulated environment. The addition completes the network of six devices which allow pilots the ability to train over the same wildfire at the same time, practicing in coordination to produce more effective, and safer, missions.
“The addition includes two AT802 FTDs, both wheeled and amphibious float versions, plus one C208 bird dog or lead plane,” shares Mike Benson, Director of Business Development with Conair. “We can now offer our pilots training for the majority of our aircraft types. Each FTD is an exact replica of our fleet cockpits.”
“The aerial response to wildfires is complex. Often there are multiple aircraft over a fire, challenged by smoke, turbulence, terrain, and heat. Training together in an environment that mimics that real life, including complex radio communications, is beneficial for our crews, not just new pilots, but those with years of experience” says Mark Baird, Simulator Program Manager. “It means when they step into the field on deployment day, they are ready to execute, and not still getting their legs under them. We can offer hours of additional training to our pilots, plus we can practice maneuvers and emergency exercises in a safe environment, something you can’t practice during on-wing training. We can use the simulators to train more pilots faster, keeping up with the rising demand for aerial firefighting aircraft.”
“Another benefit to the MTS is our ability to partner with our government agency customers, helping to train Air Attack Officers who strategize the aerial response and coordinate tactics over the fire,” continues Mike. “The ability to train and practice before a fire season starts offers incredible benefits. Ground school is put into practice before the first challenging wildfire of the season emerges. Such
highly realistic training helps ensure aerial firefighters are current and ready to respond effectively the moment there is a need.”
First envisioned in 2017, the MTS is the only one in the world of its kind and made possible using Conair’s experience in aerial firefighting along with Presagis’ simulation knowledge, technology and expertise. In 2021 Conair completed the MTS as proof of concept, linking three FTDs locally. Conair leveraged lessons learned from the platform and launched an expanded MTS program in 2022, incorporating two large airtankers (Dash 8-400AT and RJ85) with a TC690 bird dog. Building off that
success, these final three FTDs were installed earlier this spring and are in full operation prior to deployment for the 2023 fire season.
The platform features sophisticated software designed by Presagis, offering extremely high-resolution graphics with a 200 degree by 45 degree field of view. Pilots are able to see and hear each other during the simulation, with fire behavior reacting to drops, taking into account humidity, weather, fuel type, and terrain, producing visually accurate representations, including smoke.
“We are extremely proud of what Presagis has been able to contribute and accomplished in this project. The MTS built for Conair showcases the latest technology in modelling and simulation and provides Conair with a state-of-the art and leading-edge simulation environment to train aerial firefighting pilots” said Jean-Michel Briere, Presagis’ President. “The immersive experience the simulators provide is powered by Presagis software which brings the most realistic feel to the mission
for effective training,” Briere added.
“The military uses the term ‘Train like you fight, fight like you train’. We live this. Our crew’s safety is paramount,” concludes Mark.
The Mission Training System within Conair’s Training + Tactic Centre is currently available for pilots at Conair and Aero-Flite, in addition to partner government wildfire management staff. There are plans to
expand the program globally in the future.
This press release was prepared and distributed by Conair
