Training & Certification
KLM Installs Netherlands First Airbus A350 Flight Simulator
KLM installs the first Airbus A350 flight simulator in the Netherlands to support fleet renewal and pilot training expansion by 2026.
KLM Installs the Netherlands’ First Airbus A350 Flight Simulator: Strategic Investment in Aviation Training
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has marked a significant milestone with the installation of the first Airbus A350 flight simulator in the Netherlands. This move is not just a technical upgrade, it represents a strategic decision as the airline prepares for the introduction of the Airbus A350 into its fleet in 2026. The simulator, manufactured by Canadian company CAE Inc., is a cornerstone of KLM’s broader fleet renewal and training strategy, reflecting both the evolving needs of the aviation industry and the increasing complexity of pilot training requirements.
The timing of this installation is crucial. As global air travel rebounds from pandemic-related disruptions and the demand for pilots surges, airlines like KLM are under pressure to modernize fleets, improve operational efficiency, and maintain high safety standards. The A350 simulator’s arrival coincides with KLM’s investment in new training infrastructure, including “The Link” training centre, and underlines the airline’s long-term commitment to in-house pilot development. This article explores the context, significance, and implications of KLM’s latest training investment.
Background: KLM’s Fleet Modernization and the Airbus A350 Strategy
KLM’s decision to introduce the Airbus A350 is part of a comprehensive fleet modernization strategy aimed at enhancing efficiency and sustainability. In September 2023, the Air France-KLM Group announced the purchase of 50 Airbus A350 aircraft, with options for 40 more. This order, one of the largest in recent European aviation, aligns with the airline’s goal of phasing out older, less fuel-efficient aircraft and replacing them with next-generation models that offer operational and environmental advantages.
The current KLM long-haul fleet includes Boeing 777s and Airbus A330s, many of which are nearing the end of their optimal service lives. The A350 family, especially the -900 and -1000 variants, offers improved fuel burn, lower emissions, and a quieter ride, which supports both regulatory compliance and the airline’s sustainability objectives. Notably, 70% of the A350’s airframe is composed of advanced materials, including composites and modern alloys, contributing to a 25% reduction in fuel burn and CO2 emissions compared to older aircraft.
The selection of the A350 also reflects operational flexibility. The aircraft can serve both short- and ultra-long-haul routes, and the commonality between the -900 and -1000 variants allows for streamlined training and maintenance. Air France’s positive experience with the A350, operating 39 A350-900s, has further validated the decision for KLM, providing a foundation for knowledge sharing and pilot training synergies within the group.
“This new order will be a major step in the renewal of the Group’s fleet. The Airbus A350 is a state-of-the-art aircraft with an excellent track record at Air France, where it has rapidly become a favorite among passengers and crew since its entry into service in 2019.” , Benjamin Smith, CEO, Air France-KLM Group
KLM’s growth plans, including an increase in its pilot workforce from over 3,000 to around 4,000, are driving the need for expanded training capacity. The introduction of the A350 is timed to support both fleet renewal and network expansion, with a focus on maintaining the Netherlands’ connectivity to global destinations.
CAE’s Simulator Technology and KLM’s Training Investments
CAE: Leader in Aviation Simulation
The A350 simulator installed by KLM was developed by CAE Inc., a global leader in flight simulation and training technologies. Founded in 1947, CAE has become synonymous with high-fidelity, full-flight simulators that are used by airlines and training centers worldwide. The company’s Montreal facility, where the KLM simulator was built, is one of the most advanced in the industry, reflecting decades of experience and innovation.
CAE’s approach to simulator manufacturing emphasizes modularity and customization. The latest generation simulators, such as the CAE 7000XR Series, offer advanced six-axis motion systems, high-resolution visual environments, and fully customized cockpits tailored to each customer’s needs. These features ensure that pilot trainees experience scenarios that closely mimic real-world operations, from standard procedures to complex emergency situations.
The logistics of delivering and installing such a simulator are complex. For KLM, the simulator was shipped in multiple components from Montreal and required specialized handling upon arrival in the Netherlands due to its size and weight. The installation process at KLM’s Schiphol-East facility highlighted the infrastructure demands of modern simulators, including reinforced foundations and vibration-dampening measures.
The Link: KLM’s New Training Centre
The A350 simulator is one element of a broader expansion of KLM’s training infrastructure. The airline is constructing “The Link,” a new four-story training centre designed to house up to five advanced flight simulators, including those for the A350 and the Airbus A321neo. The facility, expected to be operational by mid-2026, features a 1,100 square meter simulator hall with a specially engineered foundation to support the weight and motion of the devices.
Sustainability is a key consideration in The Link’s design. The building is gas-free, uses heat pumps, and is partially powered by solar panels. Other features include a sedum roof for insulation and water retention, and the use of energy-efficient construction methods to meet near-zero energy standards. This reflects KLM’s commitment to aligning operational investments with environmental goals.
The Link will support training for both KLM and Transavia pilots, providing capacity for the growing pilot workforce and ensuring that the airline can meet future certification and recurrent training needs. The project is being delivered by SPIE, leveraging experience in complex aviation infrastructure and ongoing partnerships with KLM for building management and maintenance.
“With The Link, we can secure our training capacity in the future. We consciously choose to train our pilots in-house, because that way we have the best control over the quality and continuity. It is a crucial investment in the training of our pilots and therefore in the future of KLM.” , Bas Brouns, CFO, KLM
Industry Context: Simulator Market and Pilot Training Challenges
Flight Simulator Market Trends
KLM’s investment in the A350 simulator comes at a time of significant growth in the global flight simulator market. In 2024, the market was valued at approximately $5.62 billion, with projections suggesting expansion to over $8 billion by 2033. Europe holds about a third of this market, reflecting the region’s robust airline industry and stringent regulatory standards.
The demand for high-fidelity full-flight simulators is driven by several factors: the need for cost-effective training, regulatory requirements, and the increasing complexity of modern aircraft. Full-flight simulators account for over 90% of market revenue, with civil aviation as the largest application segment. Technological advances, such as the integration of virtual and augmented reality, are pushing the boundaries of what simulators can offer, making them indispensable for pilot training.
The Asia-Pacific region is experiencing the fastest growth in simulator demand, but Europe’s mature market and established training infrastructure ensure its continued prominence. Major manufacturers like CAE are expanding through acquisitions and innovation, maintaining their leadership in a consolidating market.
Pilot Shortage and Workforce Development
The aviation industry is facing a looming pilot shortage, particularly in Europe. After a period of pilot surplus during the pandemic, the balance has shifted, with projections indicating a need for around 122,000 new pilots in Europe by 2041, about 6,000 annually. Factors contributing to this shortage include an aging workforce, increased retirement rates, and the slow pace of new pilot training.
The shortage is not uniform across Europe. Southern and Eastern European countries are experiencing rapid air traffic recovery, while major hubs in Western Europe face their own challenges with retirements and fleet growth. Airlines are responding by investing in in-house training capabilities, as seen with KLM’s expansion, and by exploring collaborative training arrangements within airline groups.
Globally, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) has warned of a shortfall of over 4,000 pilots by 2025, with the most acute gaps in Asia-Pacific and North America. For KLM, scaling up training capacity is not just about growth, it’s about maintaining operational resilience in a highly competitive environment.
“The training process for new pilots is time-intensive, typically requiring several years before qualification, creating a significant lag between training initiation and operational readiness.” , Oliver Wyman, Aviation Analyst
Conclusion
KLM’s installation of the Netherlands’ first Airbus A350 simulator is a forward-looking investment that positions the airline at the forefront of aviation training in Europe. By integrating advanced simulator technology from CAE and expanding its training infrastructure with The Link, KLM is addressing both immediate operational needs and long-term workforce challenges. This move supports the airline’s fleet modernization, enhances pilot readiness, and aligns with broader sustainability and efficiency goals.
As the aviation industry continues to evolve, investments in high-quality training infrastructure will be critical for meeting regulatory requirements, managing operational risks, and maintaining competitive advantage. KLM’s approach, combining internal training capacity, advanced technology, and sustainability, serves as a model for other carriers navigating the complexities of fleet renewal and workforce development in a post-pandemic world.
FAQ
What is the significance of KLM’s new Airbus A350 simulator?
The simulator is the first of its kind in the Netherlands and supports KLM’s preparation for introducing the Airbus A350 into its fleet, enabling comprehensive pilot training and supporting operational efficiency.
Who manufactured the simulator and where was it built?
The simulator was manufactured by CAE Inc. in Montreal, Canada, a global leader in flight simulation technology.
How does the simulator investment fit into KLM’s broader strategy?
It is part of a larger fleet modernization and training infrastructure expansion, including the construction of “The Link” training centre, and supports KLM’s goals for operational excellence, sustainability, and workforce growth.
Why is in-house pilot training important for KLM?
In-house training gives KLM greater control over quality, scheduling, and continuity, which is vital for maintaining high safety and operational standards.
How does simulator training contribute to sustainability?
Simulators reduce the need for training flights on actual aircraft, significantly lowering fuel consumption and emissions while providing safe, effective training environments.
Sources: KLM News
Photo Credit: KLM
Training & Certification
CAE Adds Four Business Jet Simulators Across the Americas
CAE deploys four full-flight simulators in the Americas for the Global 6500, Praetor 600, PC-24, and CJ4 amid talent shortage.
Canadian training provider CAE announced the deployment of four additional full-flight simulators across the Americas on October 20, 2026, expanding localized training capacity for high-demand business jets.
Revealed during the National Business Aviation Association’s Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) in Las Vegas, Nevada, the expansion targets a projected long-term shortage of aviation professionals. In a press release, the company stated the new hardware will support training for the Bombardier Global 6500, Embraer Praetor 600, Pilatus PC-24, and Cessna Citation CJ4.
Expanding localized training capacity
The addition of the four simulators is designed to align CAE’s global training network with growing customer and fleet demand. By placing training hardware closer to where operators require it, the company aims to reduce the need for flight crews to travel long distances for initial and recurrent training.
While the specific cities or training center locations for the four new simulators within the Americas region were not detailed in the October 20 announcement, the deployment fits into a broader strategy of regionalized training hubs.
Alexandre Prévost, President of Civil Aviation at CAE, noted the importance of localized access for operators.
“These simulator deployments expand access to high-quality training on the aircraft our customers fly, where they need it, while delivering the quality and experience they expect from CAE. It’s about helping crews stay ready, perform at their best and fly safely.”
Addressing the aviation talent shortage
The business aviation sector is experiencing sustained growth, driving a long-term need for qualified personnel. According to CAE’s Aviation Talent Forecast, the industry will require 102,000 new business aviation professionals worldwide by 2034.
That projection comprises 33,000 new business aviation pilots and 69,000 maintenance technicians. Prévost stated that as business aviation demand grows, the company is strengthening its global training network to meet the evolving needs of operators facing these workforce pressures.
CAE’s decade of business aviation growth
Over the past decade, CAE has nearly doubled its business aviation training capacity. The company’s global business aviation training network now includes more than 130 full-flight simulators.
To support this infrastructure, CAE employs approximately 1,000 instructors worldwide. Together, this network delivers more than 300,000 hours of training annually across both pilot and maintenance disciplines.
AirPro News analysis
The decision to deploy simulators for the Global 6500, Praetor 600, PC-24, and CJ4 reflects the current delivery mix and utilization rates in the Americas. By distributing simulator capacity regionally rather than centralizing it, training providers are directly addressing operator concerns about crew downtime. In a tight labor market where 33,000 new business aviation pilots are needed over the next decade, minimizing the days crews spend traveling to training events becomes a competitive advantage for both the operators and the training providers they select.
Photo Credit: CAE
Training & Certification
Bombardier Opens Wichita Training Center in $50M Investment
Bombardier inaugurated its North American Learning Center in Wichita, Kansas, training 250 mechanics annually as part of a $50M site expansion.
Bombardier Inc. inaugurated its first dedicated in-house skills development facility for United States aircraft technicians on October 15, 2026, anchoring an approximately $50 million investment in its Wichita, Kansas, operations.
The North American Learning Center and an expanded wheel and tire shop are designed to address industry-wide skilled labor constraints by internalizing mechanic training and boosting component repair capacity. In a press release issued on October 15, the Canadian manufacturer stated the investment ensures a steady pipeline of qualified personnel to support its growing network of 10 American service centers.
Training infrastructure and capacity
The newly opened North American Learning Center represents a strategic shift for Bombardier in how it prepares its aftermarket workforce. The facility features a retired Bombardier Global 5000 fuselage mounted on jack stands. This setup allows students to practice maintenance procedures on an actual airframe without the risk of damaging a customer aircraft.
According to reporting by Aviation International News and the Wichita Business Journal, the center will host two-week training courses for cohorts of up to 40 students. Over the next 12 months, Bombardier expects approximately 250 newly hired aircraft technicians and mechanics to pass through the curriculum.
The facility also incorporates dedicated back shops where trainees practice foundational aviation maintenance skills, including sheet metal fabrication, safety wire twisting, and digital manual navigation. Bombardier plans to expand the curriculum in the future to include advanced maintenance training and interior removal and installation courses.
Component repair expansion
Alongside the training center, the $50 million investment funded a significant modernization of the Wichita site’s wheel and tire shop. The upgraded facility is projected to double its throughput from 2,300 units last year to 5,000 units this year.
Once fully ramped up, the expanded shop will have the capacity to service 15,000 wheels and tires annually. This increased Component Repair and Overhaul (CR&O) capability is intended to directly support the company’s distributed service network across the country.
Paul Sislian, Executive Vice President of Aircraft Sales and Bombardier Aftermarket Services, highlighted the dual focus of the investment.
“Our approximately $50 million investment brings together important initiatives across the site, from the new Learning Center to expanded wheel and tire capabilities, strengthening both our people and our operations,” Sislian said. “This commitment to Wichita’s future will deepen the expertise and capabilities that will allow us to deliver an even stronger experience for our customers, while position the site for continued growth.”
Transitioning the Air Capital footprint
The October 15, 2026, inauguration marks the latest phase in Bombardier’s repositioning of its Wichita footprint. Known historically as the “Air Capital of the World,” the city was the manufacturing home of the Learjet program for six decades.
Bombardier announced the end of Learjet production on February 11, 2021, to focus resources on its more profitable Challenger and Global aircraft families. The final Learjet 75 rolled off the Wichita assembly line on March 28, 2022.
Rather than drawing down its presence following the end of aircraft manufacturing at the site, Bombardier designated the one-million-square-foot facility as its United States headquarters on April 19, 2022. The location also became the base for the newly launched Bombardier Defense division, alongside an existing major service center and flight test center.
Today, Bombardier employs 1,500 people in Kansas out of a total United States workforce of 3,500. The company reports an annual supplier spend of $2.5 billion across the country.
Kansas Governor Laura Kelly, who attended the inauguration alongside Lieutenant Governor David Toland, noted the state’s ongoing relationship with the manufacturer.
“Since 2019, my administration has partnered with Bombardier to build up the company’s presence in Wichita, which today now includes the new Learning Center, Bombardier Group’s U.S. headquarters, home of Bombardier Defense and the employment of 1,500 Kansans,” Kelly said.
AirPro News analysis
The aviation aftermarket is currently constrained by a severe shortage of skilled labor. By moving technician training in-house and simultaneously expanding component repair capacity, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) like Bombardier are acknowledging that physical hangar space is no longer the primary bottleneck to aftermarket growth. We view this $50 million investment as a defensive strategy to protect service revenue. If an OEM cannot guarantee a steady supply of qualified mechanics and overhauled components, its expanded service centers cannot operate at capacity. Internalizing the training pipeline reduces reliance on third-party technical schools and ensures new hires are immediately productive on specific airframes like the Global 5000.
Photo Credit: Bombardier Inc.
Training & Certification
FAA Approves First US G600 G700 Convertible Simulator
FAA certifies FlightSafety International’s Gulfstream G600/G700 convertible Level D simulator in Long Beach, CA.
The FAA has approved FlightSafety International’s new Gulfstream G600 and G700 convertible Level D Full-Flight Simulator, establishing the first dual-configuration training device for the aircraft types in the United States.
Announced in a company press release on October 1, 2026, the approval allows the training provider to serve operators of both the Gulfstream GVII and GVIII platforms from a single device at its Long Beach, California, facility. The certification addresses a growing domestic requirement for pilot training capacity as the G700 fleet expands.
Expanding domestic training capacity
The new simulator was engineered and manufactured at FlightSafety International’s facility in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, before installation at the Long Beach Learning Center. The convertible design allows the device to switch between G600 and G700 configurations, optimizing scheduling for type-rated pilots.
Ben Carter, Executive Vice President of Learning Center Operations at FlightSafety International, stated that the new convertible simulator reflects the company’s commitment to providing innovative training solutions.
“By enabling multiple aircraft configurations within a single device, we are helping customers optimize training access while maintaining the highest standards of fidelity and safety,” Carter said.
The Long Beach approval follows a similar certification in Asia. In August 2026, the FAA certified the company’s other G600 and G700 convertible device in Singapore for G600 training, which currently serves regional operators.
Technical specifications and capabilities
The Long Beach device is certified as a Level D Full-Flight Simulator, the highest level of flight simulator qualification, requiring a comprehensive aerodynamic model and a full motion platform.
The simulator is equipped with the company’s proprietary VITAL 1150 image generator and a 42-inch electric motion base. The system supports advanced training requirements, specifically including steep approach operations for the G600.
Gulfstream fleet expansion and training demand
The introduction of the convertible simulator aligns with the operational growth of Gulfstream’s ultra-long-range business jet portfolio. The G600 entered service in August 2019, establishing a mature operator base requiring recurrent training.
Demand for G700 training is currently accelerating following the aircraft’s recent entry into service. The FAA granted type certification for the G700 on March 29, 2024, and Gulfstream commenced customer deliveries on April 23, 2024.
FlightSafety International, a wholly owned subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway since 1996, is marking its 75th anniversary in 2026. The company provides training to aviation professionals from more than 170 countries and operates one of the largest global fleets of advanced flight simulators.
AirPro News analysis
We view the deployment of convertible simulators as a necessary capital efficiency strategy for training providers managing the transition between aircraft generations. Because the G700 fleet is still in its early delivery phase, a dedicated G700 simulator might experience lower utilization rates in the near term. By combining GVII and GVIII configurations into a single Level D device, FlightSafety International can maintain high utilization through the established G600 market while simultaneously absorbing the growing wave of initial type-rating demand for the G700.
Photo Credit: FlightSafety International
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