Fabian Riesen

CEO, VRM Switzerland

Evidence-Based Training Concepts Implemented on the First EASA Qualified Virtual Reality Training Device

The EASA qualified VR training devices of VRM Switzerland are door openers for more realistic training setups in single pilot operations. These simulators allow to execute creditable training and checking which enhances flight safety and reduces training cost by saving the environment. Pilot competencies like workload management, execution of procedures, leadership qualities, problem solving and decision-making skills can be promoted targeted to the trainees needs in realistic flight sessions and scenario-based trainings. This enables to train basic skills of student pilots, emergency procedures and technologies like EBT, AI, big data and clouds. Balancing the use of the simulator and flying in the aircraft correctly results in an increase of flight safety.

VRM Switzerland executed a research project in which 39 persons were taught in flying PPL (H) manoeuvres on the Robison R22 training device following a common PPL syllabus. The performance in the simulator at the end of the training was compared with the skills shown during a verification flight in the real helicopter. The results and the potential of the concept will be introduced.

Furthermore, concepts based on specifications of the Evidence Based Training (EBT) to improve the competencies of rated pilots will be presented. The realism of the training devices allows to practice emergency procedures and situations which cannot or only limited be trained in the real aircraft. Examples of training and checking concepts on the Airbus approved H125 training device, developed together with customers, will be presented.

The utilisation of technologies like artificial intelligence, big data and clouds will be mentioned. But it is essential to use the technologies in the advantage of the pilot training and safety which might be a challenge and requires to reflect cultures in companies.

Pilot Conference
Day 2 – Wednesday 9th November 2022
Session 8 – 1630-1800