Training & Certification
Porter Airlines Advances Pilot Training with New E195-E2 Simulator in Montreal
Porter Airlines introduces Embraer E195-E2 full-flight simulator in Montreal to enhance pilot training amid fleet expansion.
Porter Airlines has initiated a significant development in its pilot training program by introducing a state-of-the-art Embraer E195-E2 full-flight simulator (FFS) at CAE’s Montreal training center. This move, in collaboration with Embraer CAE Training Services (ECTS), marks a pivotal step in ensuring operational readiness and maintaining high safety standards amid the airline’s rapid fleet expansion.
The deployment of this simulator not only enhances the airline’s in-house training capabilities but also reflects broader shifts in the aviation industry towards immersive, technology-driven solutions. As airlines globally grapple with pilot shortages and rising operational costs, investments in advanced simulation training are becoming increasingly critical.
In this article, we explore the background of Porter Airlines’ fleet strategy, the specifics of the simulator technology, expert insights from industry leaders, and the global context that underscores the significance of this development.
Founded in 2006, Porter Airlines has grown into a prominent regional carrier in North America, known for its premium service model. Operating primarily from Eastern Canada, the airline has consistently focused on providing a higher standard of regional air travel while maintaining cost efficiency.
In a major strategic shift, Porter became the North American launch customer for Embraer’s E195-E2 aircraft in 2023. The airline placed a firm order for 75 aircraft, with options for 25 more. This transition from the Bombardier Q400 turboprops to the E195-E2 jets represents a significant upscaling in terms of range, capacity, and fuel efficiency.
The E195-E2, the largest aircraft in Embraer’s E-Jet E2 family, can accommodate up to 146 passengers and offers a range of approximately 2,600 nautical miles. It boasts a 10% improvement in fuel efficiency compared to previous models, making it a cost-effective choice for expanding Porter’s network to longer-haul destinations such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Miami.
Porter’s aggressive fleet expansion has necessitated a parallel investment in pilot training infrastructure. With 46 E195-E2 aircraft already delivered and up to 100 planned, the airline must ensure a steady pipeline of well-trained pilots capable of operating the new fleet safely and efficiently.
The deployment of the simulator in Montreal is a direct response to this need. It allows Porter to train pilots locally, reducing travel costs and increasing training throughput. This aligns with the airline’s broader strategy of maintaining high operational standards while scaling its services. In addition to meeting immediate training demands, the simulator also supports recurrent training and certification, ensuring that pilots remain proficient over time. This is especially critical as the airline expands into new markets and faces increasingly complex regulatory and operational environments.
The simulator is built on CAE’s 7000XR-Series platform and incorporates the CAE Prodigy visual system powered by Epic Games’ Unreal Engine. This combination delivers photorealistic environments, high-fidelity motion cues, and dynamic weather modeling, offering an immersive training experience that closely replicates real-world flying conditions.
By simulating a wide range of scenarios, from standard operating procedures to emergency situations, the system enhances pilot preparedness and decision-making skills. This is particularly valuable in an industry where safety margins are paramount and regulatory compliance is non-negotiable.
CAE’s investment in visual realism and system responsiveness ensures that pilots can practice complex maneuvers, including crosswind landings, engine failures, and low-visibility approaches, in a controlled and risk-free environment.
“CAE’s expertise in training and simulation technology ensures our pilots receive the highest quality and safety standards for our pilots operating Embraer’s latest E195-E2 model.”
Kent Woodside, EVP & COO, Porter Airlines
The simulator was developed and manufactured in Montreal, reinforcing Canada’s role as a hub for aviation technology and innovation. It is scheduled to begin training operations in May 2025, under the management of Embraer CAE Training Services (ECTS), a joint venture between CAE and Embraer.
This local deployment is strategically significant. It allows Porter to centralize its training operations, reducing reliance on third-party facilities and enabling more flexible scheduling. It also supports the creation of skilled aviation jobs in the region, contributing to the local economy.
ECTS’s broader global network includes E2 full-flight simulators in Singapore and Madrid, as well as Phenom training locations in various regions. This international presence ensures consistency in training standards and allows for knowledge sharing across geographies. “Our joint venture with Embraer enables us to elevate aviation safety and training standards by delivering world-class solutions to support the growth of the E195-E2 fleet around the world.”
Michel Azar-Hmouda, Division President, Commercial Aviation, CAE
The simulator enables Porter to conduct both initial and recurrent training in-house, enhancing control over training quality and scheduling. This is particularly important as the airline scales its operations and integrates new pilots into its workforce.
By offering a consistent training environment, the simulator helps standardize procedures across the pilot group, reducing variability and enhancing safety. It also allows for scenario-based training, which is increasingly recognized as a best practice in aviation safety management.
Moreover, the simulator supports Porter’s goal of maintaining a high level of customer service by ensuring that pilots are well-prepared to handle a wide range of operational situations, from routine flights to unexpected challenges.
The introduction of the E195-E2 simulator at CAE’s Montreal facility is part of a larger trend in the aviation industry. According to industry reports, the global flight simulator market is projected to grow from $5.8 billion in 2024 to $8.7 billion by 2033. This growth is driven by several factors, including pilot shortages, regulatory requirements, and technological advancements.
Boeing has estimated that the aviation industry will need approximately 800,000 new pilots over the next two decades. This demand places immense pressure on airlines and training organizations to scale up their training capabilities while maintaining high standards.
Technological innovations such as augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and cloud-based training platforms are also transforming the way pilots are trained. These tools enhance accessibility, reduce costs, and offer flexible training options that can be tailored to individual needs.
For Porter Airlines, the simulator is more than just a training tool, it is a strategic asset. It supports the airline’s dual objectives of expanding its route network and maintaining operational excellence. With the E195-E2, Porter can now serve transcontinental routes, opening up new revenue streams and customer segments. At the same time, the simulator ensures that pilots are trained to the highest standards, which is essential for maintaining the airline’s reputation for safety and reliability. This combination of growth and quality positions Porter as a competitive player in the North American aviation market.
Looking ahead, the airline’s investment in simulation technology may serve as a model for other regional carriers seeking to modernize their training programs and scale operations sustainably.
Porter Airlines’ deployment of the E195-E2 simulator in Montreal represents a forward-thinking approach to pilot training amid a period of significant growth. By partnering with CAE and Embraer through ECTS, the airline is leveraging world-class technology to ensure safety, efficiency, and scalability in its operations.
This initiative not only enhances Porter’s internal capabilities but also contributes to broader industry trends in aviation training and workforce development. As the airline continues to expand its fleet and route network, its investment in advanced simulation training will likely play a key role in sustaining long-term success.
What aircraft is the simulator designed for? Where is the simulator located? When will pilot training begin? What technology powers the simulator? Sources:
Porter Airlines E-Jet Pilots Begin CAE Simulator Training: A Strategic Leap in Pilot Training and Fleet Expansion
Background: Porter Airlines and the E195-E2
Strategic Fleet Expansion and Training Needs
Technology Behind the Simulator
Recent Developments: The Montreal Simulator Deployment
Operational Benefits and Safety Implications
Global and Industry Context
Porter’s Strategic Positioning
Conclusion
FAQ
The simulator is specifically designed for the Embraer E195-E2 aircraft.
The simulator is located at CAE’s training center in Montreal, Canada.
Training using the new simulator is scheduled to commence in May 2025.
It uses CAE’s 7000XR-Series platform and the CAE Prodigy visual system, which incorporates Unreal Engine for photorealistic visuals.
AviTrader,
Skies Magazine,
PR Newswire,
CAE Media Centre,
Research and Markets,
Grand View Research
Photo Credit: CAE
Training & Certification
Tecnam P2008JC NG Launches with Fuel-Injected Engine and EASA Certification
Tecnam introduces the P2008JC NG featuring a fuel-injected Rotax engine, EASA CS-23 certification, 30% lower emissions, and advanced Garmin avionics for flight training.
This article is based on an official press release from Tecnam.
Italian aircraft manufacturer Tecnam has officially announced the launch of the P2008JC NG (Next Generation), a significant upgrade to one of its most popular single-engine trainers. According to the company’s announcement, the new model integrates the fuel-injected Rotax 912 iSc engine and has been certified to the latest EASA CS-23 airworthiness standards. The launch targets Flight Training Organizations (FTOs) looking to modernize fleets with aircraft that offer higher fuel efficiency and reduced environmental impact.
The P2008JC NG represents a strategic move by Tecnam to solidify its position in the global flight training market. By replacing legacy carbureted engines with modern fuel injection technology, the manufacturer aims to lower operating costs for flight schools while simplifying engine management for student pilots.
The core of the “NG” evolution is the adoption of the Rotax 912 iSc Sport engine. In its press materials, Tecnam highlights that this 100-horsepower powerplant replaces traditional carburetors with a redundant electronic fuel injection system. This change eliminates the risk of carburetor icing, a common safety concern in general aviation, and removes the need for manual mixture or choke adjustments during flight operations.
According to technical specifications released by the manufacturer, the new engine configuration delivers substantial efficiency gains:
Giovanni Pascale Langer, Tecnam’s Managing Director, emphasized the balance of efficiency and utility in the company’s official statement:
“The P2008JC NG represents a significant leap in training safety. By certifying to the latest CS-23 Amendment 6 standards, we have enhanced the aircraft’s safety characteristics specifically at very low speeds, the typical mission profile for ab-initio training. We needed an aircraft that works hard, consumes little, and inspires confidence.”
The P2008JC NG is certified under EASA CS-23 Amendment 6. This certification standard is rigorous, placing the aircraft in a high safety tier for General Aviation. Tecnam notes that this certification ensures enhanced handling characteristics, particularly in the low-speed regimes where student pilots spend much of their training time practicing stalls and landings.
The aircraft retains Tecnam’s signature hybrid construction approach. The fuselage is constructed from carbon fiber, allowing for a wider cabin and aerodynamic sleekness that is difficult to achieve with sheet metal. However, the wings and stabilator are built from metal. This design choice is intentional for the training market; metal wings are generally easier and cheaper to repair if they suffer “hangar rash” or minor damage in a busy flight school environment.
To prepare students for modern commercial cockpits, the P2008JC NG comes equipped with a glass cockpit as standard. The avionics suite features the Garmin G3X Touch, which provides situational awareness tools and flight data presentation similar to what pilots will encounter in airline operations. The interior has also been redesigned with ergonomics in mind. Updates include a new central console, improved window design for better visibility, and 3-point safety belts with inertial reels. An autopilot system is available as an option, allowing schools to conduct more advanced Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) procedural training on a VFR-capable platform.
The introduction of the P2008JC NG highlights a broader trend in the flight training industry: the shift away from 1970s-era designs toward modern, efficient platforms. While legacy aircraft like the Cessna 152 and 172 remain workhorses, their fuel burn and maintenance requirements are significantly higher than modern Rotax-powered alternatives.
For a flight school, the difference between burning 8–10 gallons per hour in a legacy trainer versus 3.7 gallons in the P2008JC NG represents a massive reduction in direct operating costs. Furthermore, as European regulators and airports place increasing pressure on noise and emissions, the “green” credentials of the NG model, specifically the 30% CO2 reduction cited by Tecnam, may become a critical selling point for academies operating in environmentally sensitive regions.
However, the challenge for modern composite or hybrid aircraft remains long-term durability. Metal legacy fleets have proven they can survive 40+ years of student abuse. It remains to be seen if the hybrid carbon-metal construction of the P2008JC NG can match that longevity, though the metal wings are a strategic concession to that reality.
Tecnam Unveils P2008JC NG: A Fuel-Injected Evolution for Flight Training
Engineering and Performance Upgrades
Safety and Certification Standards
Hybrid Airframe Design
Avionics and Interior
AirPro News Analysis
Sources
Photo Credit: Tecnam
Training & Certification
Cirrus SR Series G7+ Gains EASA and UK CAA Certification for Europe
Cirrus Aircraft’s SR Series G7+ receives EASA and UK CAA type certification, introducing Safe Return™ Emergency Autoland to European piston aircraft.
This article is based on an official press release from Cirrus Aircraft.
Cirrus Aircraft has officially received type certification from both the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) for its SR Series G7+ aircraft. Announced on December 9, 2025, this regulatory milestone clears the way for immediate deliveries of the manufacturer’s latest single-engine piston models, the SR20, SR22, and SR22T, to customers across Europe and the United Kingdom.
The certification marks a significant technological shift for the European general Commercial-Aircraft market. The “G7+” designation distinguishes this model from the standard G7 introduced earlier in 2024. While the G7 focused on a flight deck redesign, the G7+ introduces the Safe Return™ Emergency Autoland system as standard equipment. According to the company’s announcement, this makes the SR Series G7+ the first single-engine piston aircraft in the European market to feature a certified autonomous landing system capable of taking control during pilot incapacitation.
The primary differentiator for the newly certified G7+ is the integration of the Safe Return™ system, powered by Garmin Autoland technology. Previously available only on the jet-powered Vision Jet, this technology has now been standardized for the piston fleet. In the event of an emergency, such as pilot hypoxia or a cardiac event, a passenger can activate the system via a button on the cabin ceiling.
Once engaged, the system performs a complex sequence of autonomous actions without human intervention:
In addition to the Autoland capability, the G7+ certification includes other automated enhancements designed to reduce pilot workload. These include “Smart Pitot Heat,” which automatically engages based on outside air temperature to prevent icing, and Cirrus IQ™ Pro, a connectivity suite that facilitates real-time health monitoring and automatic database updates.
“We are pleased to receive EASA and UK CAA approval for the SR Series G7+ with Safe Return™ Emergency Autoland… European owners enjoy premium innovation, safety and quality with the SR Series G7+.”
, Zean Nielsen, CEO of Cirrus Aircraft
The dual certification from EASA and the UK CAA is a critical component of Cirrus Aircraft’s growth Strategy in the region. According to data referenced in reports by Flight Global, Europe currently represents the company’s second-largest market, accounting for approximately 11% of global deliveries. Cirrus has stated a strategic objective to increase this market share to between 20% and 30%.
By securing approval for the G7+, Cirrus aims to leverage the region’s focus on safety features. The complex airspace and variable weather conditions in Europe often drive buyers toward aircraft with advanced Avionics and redundancy. The immediate availability of the G7+ allows Cirrus to fulfill existing Orders and target new buyers looking for the specific safety net provided by the Autoland system. The certification of the G7+ establishes a significant competitive advantage for Cirrus in the high-performance piston sector. While competitors like Diamond Aircraft (based in Austria) and Piper Aircraft (USA) offer strong alternatives in the single-engine piston category, Cirrus is currently the only Manufacturers offering a certified autonomous landing system in this class within the European market.
We observe that this move effectively blurs the line between high-end piston aircraft and entry-level turbines. By migrating “Vision Jet” technology down to the SR Series, Cirrus is likely attempting to upsell owner-pilots who might otherwise consider moving to a competitor’s turboprop for perceived safety gains. Furthermore, achieving simultaneous certification from both EASA and the UK CAA demonstrates a successful navigation of the post-Brexit regulatory landscape, ensuring that the G7+ faces no friction in accessing the continent’s two most vital general aviation jurisdictions.
The rollout of the G7 platform has been rapid. The initial SR Series G7, featuring the new touchscreen flight deck and improved ergonomics, was launched in January 2024. The “Plus” variant, adding the Autoland capability, was introduced to the US market in May 2025. With the December 2025 certification, the European market has now caught up to the North American standard, unifying the product line globally.
Deliveries to European and UK customers are expected to commence immediately.
Cirrus SR Series G7+ Secures EASA and UK CAA Certification, Bringing Autonomous Landing to Europe
The “Plus” Distinction: Safety and Autonomy
Strategic Expansion in the European Market
AirPro News Analysis: A Competitive Moat
Timeline of the G7 Evolution
Sources
Photo Credit: Cirrus
Training & Certification
Diamond Aircraft Restarts European DA20i Production with First Delivery
Diamond Aircraft resumes European production of the DA20i Katana at its Austria facility, delivering the first unit to Aviation Academy Austria.
Diamond Aircraft has officially restarted European production of its two-seat DA20 trainer after a hiatus of more than a decade. In a ceremony held at the company’s headquarters in Wiener Neustadt, Austria, the manufacturer delivered the first newly built DA20i Katana to its launch customer, Aviation Academy Austria (AAA).
The delivery, which took place on November 28, 2025, marks a strategic shift for Diamond Aircraft. For the past 13 years, the DA20 was manufactured exclusively in London, Ontario, primarily for the North American market. By bringing production back to Austria, the company aims to address the surging demand for flight training across Europe while mitigating the logistical costs and tariffs associated with importing aircraft from Canada.
The resumption of the DA20 line in Europe is a direct response to the region’s growing need for modern, cost-effective training fleets. According to Diamond Aircraft, the decision to produce the aircraft locally allows for faster delivery times to European flight schools and offers a configuration specifically tailored to the local market.
Aviation Academy Austria, located directly adjacent to the Diamond factory at Wiener Neustadt airfield, was the natural launch customer. The academy ordered two DA20i aircraft; the first was handed over during the ceremony, with the second scheduled for delivery in early 2026. AAA already operates a mixed fleet of Diamond aircraft, including older DA20s, DA40 NGs, and DA42 NG-VI twins.
In a statement regarding the delivery, Oliver Karall, CEO of Aviation Academy Austria, highlighted the importance of modernizing training equipment:
“We are thrilled to welcome the new DA20i Katana into our fleet… [it] allows our students to experience the very best in modern flight training. This aircraft perfectly aligns with our mission to provide state-of-the-art training solutions.”
While the North American DA20-C1 has remained a staple in flight schools, the new European DA20i Katana introduces significant technical updates designed for European operating environments. The most notable difference lies in the powerplant and avionics suite.
The European model is powered by the Rotax 912 iSc3 Sport engine (100 hp), replacing the Continental IO-240-B32B (125 hp) found in the Canadian variant. According to technical specifications released by Diamond, this switch results in substantial fuel savings:
To prepare students for modern airline cockpits, the DA20i is equipped with a Garmin G500TXi glass cockpit. This upgrade replaces legacy analog instruments, allowing ab-initio students to train on digital interfaces from their very first flight hours.
Jane Wang, Sales Director for Diamond Aircraft Austria, emphasized the blend of heritage and modernity in the new model: “Relaunching production of the DA20i Katana, and now delivering the first unit in Europe, marks another exciting chapter for Diamond Aircraft… The DA20i blends tradition with innovation.”
The relaunch comes at a critical time for the aviation industry. Citing data from CAE’s Aviation Talent Forecast, industry reports indicate a need for 64,000 new pilots in Europe over the next decade. Flight schools are expanding their fleets to meet this intake, driving demand for efficient primary trainers.
The market has already responded to the availability of the European-built model. Shortly after the announcement involving AAA, AELO Swiss Academy signed a deal for 12 DA20i aircraft with options for six more. Based in Locarno, Switzerland, AELO cited the aircraft’s environmental credentials and operating efficiency as key drivers for their fleet standardization.
The return of the DA20 to European production lines is more than a nostalgic nod to the company’s history; it is a calculated economic maneuver. European flight schools face significantly higher fuel costs and stricter noise abatement regulations than their North American counterparts. By offering a Rotax-powered variant produced locally, Diamond eliminates the trans-Atlantic shipping costs and import tariffs that made the Canadian DA20-C1 less competitive in Europe.
Furthermore, the shift to the Garmin G500TXi in a primary trainer reflects a broader industry trend. Airlines increasingly prefer cadets who are “glass-cockpit native,” reducing the training gap when students transition to complex turbine aircraft. The DA20i appears positioned to serve as a bridge between cost-effective ab-initio training and professional airline preparation.
Diamond Aircraft Resumes European Production with First DA20i Delivery
A Milestone for European Flight Training
Technical Evolution: The DA20i Katana
Engine and Efficiency
Modern Avionics
Market Context and Future Orders
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
Photo Credit: Diamond Aircraft
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