TRAINING ADVANCED AIR MOBILITY LILIUM AND FLIGHTSAFETY INTERNATIONAL SIGN FLIGHT SIMULATOR AND TRAINING AGREEMENT

Faa Regulations

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recognises that powered-lift aircraft, defined as heavier-than-air vehicles capable of vertical take-off, vertical landing, and low-speed flight, will soon enter the civilian market with complex designs and varying degrees of automation. These aircraft are expected to perform diverse operations, including transportation to offshore oil rigs, air ambulance services, and urban air taxis. To address these advancements, the FAA proposes permanent changes to pilot certification and operation regulations in parts 61, 135, and 142, along with temporary changes through a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR). These modifications aim to train and certify powered-lift pilots and instructors, create temporary alternatives for airman certification, remove operational barriers, and mitigate safety risks. The proposed SFAR would be effective for a duration of 10 years.

Furthermore, powered-lift aircraft will play a significant role in supporting the deployment of AAM operations, which encompass revolutionary new aircraft for moving people and cargo, such as air taxis and eVTOL aircraft. Congress has directed the Department of Transportation to establish an advanced air mobility working group to coordinate efforts for integrating these aircraft into the national airspace.

Overall, this rulemaking is a vital step in facilitating the safe and equitable integration of powered-lift and AAM solutions into the national airspace. By establishing clear regulations, the FAA aims to promote competition and enable these innovative aviation technologies to enter the market, revolutionising air travel.

Conclusion

Lilium N.V., developer of the first all-electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) jet, has agreed to partner with premier professional aviation training company, FlightSafety International (FSI). Future pilots and mechanics will be qualified by FlightSafety International in their industryleading training devices and State-of-the-art flight simulator representing the Lilium Jet will support type-certification.

The agreement establishes FlightSafety as the exclusive developer and provider for flight training devices for the Lilium Jet. This will include industry-leading, immersive, and mixed reality simulators for training, as well as an early flight simulator representative of the Lilium Jet cockpit, to be used by Lilium engineers. Additionally, FSI will develop and deliver training programmes, including online training programme modules, for qualification of future Lilium pilots and mechanics worldwide.

Sebastien Borel, Chief Commercial Officer, Lilium said, “This partnership represents another critical milestone that will support the Lilium Jet’s progress through certification and commercial launch. Thanks to FSI’s vast experience and expertise in the field of aircraft simulators, we look forward to enabling all Lilium pilots to get familiar with our aircraft before commercial launch.”

Nathan Speiser, EVP Sales and Marketing, FlightSafety International said, “It is our mission to deliver best-in-class pilot training, globally, while working with new partners to bring new, sustainable modes of transport with cost effective training capabilities. We are excited to be working with leading eVTOL manufacturer Lilium, to advance and deliver training that empowers and prepares pilots for the world of eVTOL flight.”

FSI continues to support the emerging Advance Air Mobility (AAM) market with the latest innovative and cutting-edge technology to support distance learning training curriculums and the latest advances in training device manufacturing. SP

As of now, there are 36 traditional companies with Aircraft Operator’s Certificates (AOC) that have placed orders for eVTOL aircraft. These operators vary in terms of their maturity and readiness, with some waiting for aircraft programmes to progress before dedicated planning, while others have advanced operational planning teams collaborating with local stakeholders.

The upcoming eVTOL market represents a significant leap forward for the aviation industry. Pilots selected for these pioneering flights will face immense pressure, requiring nerves of steel and the ability to operate under intense media scrutiny. Airlines and Operators of eVTOLs will rely on their most experienced pilots, known for their expertise and adherence to safety protocols, to ensure the success of these early routes. The demanding nature of flying eVTOLs in urban environments necessitates pilots with exceptional decision-making skills and the capacity to handle unfamiliar challenges.

This will put the pilot training as the most crucial aspect of transitioning to be an eVTOL pilot. eVTOL pilot training is a complex and challenging endeavour, but it is also a rewarding one. eVTOL pilots will be responsible for the safe operation of these new aircraft, and they will play a vital role in the future of urban air mobility. The future of eVTOL pilot training is still uncertain, as the regulatory environment for eVTOL aircraft is still being developed. However, it is clear that there will be a significant demand for eVTOL pilots in the coming years. As the eVTOL industry continues to grow, we can expect to see more training companies offering eVTOL pilot training programmes.

The race to be at the forefront of this transformative industry has already begun, with numerous airlines positioning themselves as early adopters by placing orders and making preparations for the deployment of eVTOLs. Correct training of these pilots that ensures safety of passengers and cargo will determine the success and adoption of eVTOLs. SP