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 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.
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.
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 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
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.
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
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.
What is the significance of KLM’s new Airbus A350 simulator? Who manufactured the simulator and where was it built? How does the simulator investment fit into KLM’s broader strategy? Why is in-house pilot training important for KLM? How does simulator training contribute to sustainability? Sources: KLM News
KLM Installs the Netherlands’ First Airbus A350 Flight Simulator: Strategic Investment in Aviation Training
Background: KLM’s Fleet Modernization and the Airbus A350 Strategy
CAE’s Simulator Technology and KLM’s Training Investments
CAE: Leader in Aviation Simulation
The Link: KLM’s New Training Centre
Industry Context: Simulator Market and Pilot Training Challenges
Flight Simulator Market Trends
Pilot Shortage and Workforce Development
Conclusion
FAQ
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.
The simulator was manufactured by CAE Inc. in Montreal, Canada, a global leader in flight simulation technology.
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.
In-house training gives KLM greater control over quality, scheduling, and continuity, which is vital for maintaining high safety and operational standards.
Simulators reduce the need for training flights on actual aircraft, significantly lowering fuel consumption and emissions while providing safe, effective training environments.
Photo Credit: KLM
Training & Certification
B&H Worldwide Delivers Airbus A330 Cockpit to New Zealand for Training
B&H Worldwide transported an Airbus A330 cockpit from the UK to New Zealand for Pacific Simulators, ensuring biosecurity compliance and specialized sea freight handling.
This article is based on an official press release from B&H Worldwide.
Aerospace logistics specialist B&H Worldwide has announced the successful transport of a decommissioned Airbus A330 cockpit from the United Kingdom to Christchurch, New Zealand. The project, executed for flight training device manufacturer Pacific Simulators (PacSim), highlights the logistical complexities involved in repurposing retired aircraft components for the simulation market.
According to the company’s announcement on February 9, 2026, the operation involved a multi-modal transit route requiring precise handling to navigate strict biosecurity regulations and physical shipping constraints. The cockpit section is set to be converted into a high-fidelity, fixed-base Flight Training Device (FTD), extending the operational life of the airframe in a training capacity.
While B&H Worldwide is traditionally associated with time-critical “Aircraft on Ground” (AOG) air freight services, this project utilized sea freight, presenting a different set of engineering and handling challenges. The primary constraint involved fitting the wide-body cockpit section into a standard 20-foot sea freight container.
The process began in West Sussex, UK, where the unit was collected and transported to B&H Worldwide’s London Heathrow (LHR) facility. There, the logistics team performed specialized packing to ensure the irregularly shaped, high-value avionics and structural components could withstand the maritime journey without damage.
Lee Hedges, the New Zealand Branch Manager for B&H Worldwide, emphasized the significance of this operation in demonstrating the company’s broader capabilities beyond emergency logistics.
“While we are renowned for our time-critical AOG services, this successful delivery proves our capability to handle projects of any scale and scope. The safe arrival of the A330 cockpit in Christchurch is a testament to our team’s expertise in bespoke logistics solutions.”
, Lee Hedges, NZ Branch Manager, B&H Worldwide
Shipping heavy cargo into New Zealand requires adherence to some of the strictest biosecurity standards in the world. The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) enforces rigorous checks to prevent the introduction of invasive pests via sea containers. According to the release, the shipment required clearance through an Approved Transitional Facility (ATF) upon arrival in Christchurch. B&H Worldwide managed the documentation and packing materials, such as treated timber, to ensure full compliance, preventing potential delays or fumigation orders that could have compromised the sensitive electronic equipment inside the cockpit.
The delivery of this A330 cockpit underscores a growing trend in the aerospace training sector: the upcycling of retired airframes. As the global demand for pilot training increases, manufacturers like Pacific Simulators are turning to decommissioned aircraft to create Flight Training Devices (FTDs).
Unlike Full Flight Simulators (FFS), which are massive, motion-based systems costing tens of millions of dollars, FTDs often use real aircraft shells to provide tactile realism at a lower cost. From a logistics perspective, this trend creates a niche market for freight forwarders capable of moving large, fragile aircraft sections via cost-effective sea freight rather than expensive air cargo. We anticipate seeing more “hybrid” logistics projects where AOG specialists apply their handling expertise to heavy-lift sea freight to support the circular aviation economy.
Following customs and biosecurity clearance, the cockpit was delivered to Pacific Simulators’ facility in Christchurch. The unit will now undergo conversion into a simulator designed to replicate the A330 flight deck environment for pilot procedures training.
This project marks another collaboration between the logistics provider and the simulation manufacturer, reinforcing the supply chain links necessary to support the global flight training infrastructure.
Sources: B&H Worldwide
B&H Worldwide Executes Complex A330 Cockpit Delivery for Pacific Simulators
Navigating “Bespoke” Logistical Challenges
Biosecurity and Regulatory Compliance
AirPro News Analysis: The Shift Toward Sustainable Training Assets
Final Delivery and Repurposing
Photo Credit: B&H Worldwide
Training & Certification
Lockheed Martin Advances to Phase III of Army Flight School Next
Lockheed Martin selects Robinson R66 NxG helicopter and advanced simulation for US Army Flight School Next Phase III bid.
This article is based on an official press release from Lockheed Martin.
Lockheed Martin announced on February 4, 2026, that it has successfully advanced to Phase III of the U.S. Army’s Flight School Next (FSN) competition. As part of its bid to become the prime contractor for the Army’s Initial Entry Rotary-Wing (IERW) Training program, the company has selected the Robinson R66 NxG helicopter as its primary training platform.
According to the company’s official statement, the bid positions Lockheed Martin as a “prime training systems integrator.” The proposal combines the commercially proven Robinson airframe with Lockheed’s proprietary simulation and training management technologies. The FSN program aims to replace the Army’s current fleet of twin-engine UH-72 Lakotas with a more cost-effective, contractor-owned solution.
Lockheed Martin’s proposal relies on the Robinson R66 NxG (“Next Generation”), a modern iteration of the standard turbine helicopter. While the airframe is supplied by Robinson Helicopter Company, Lockheed Martin would serve as the prime contractor responsible for the entire training enterprise, including the syllabus, logistics, and instruction.
The R66 NxG features the Rolls-Royce RR300 turbine engine, which Lockheed Martin highlights for its reliability and lower operating costs compared to the current twin-engine training fleet. Key upgrades for the “NxG” configuration include:
David Smith, President and CEO of Robinson Helicopter Company, emphasized the domestic roots of the platform in the press release:
“Our selection of Robinson brings a safe, proven and innovative platform to the table… The R66 offers a modern, American-made solution.”
Beyond the hardware, Lockheed Martin is pitching a “Turnkey Training System” that leverages its “21st Century Security” vision. The company states that its solution incorporates advanced modeling and simulation to streamline pilot production.
Specific technologies cited in the announcement include LM-LIFT™, a data-driven learning management system designed to track student performance, and TRAESER™, a “digital twin” of the flight school. These systems are intended to optimize aircraft maintenance scheduling and resource allocation to ensure the high throughput required by the Army.
Todd Morar, VP of Air and Commercial Solutions at Lockheed Martin, stated: “For years we have been refining a comprehensive solution that aligns with the Army’s vision for a modern, affordable and high-quality training pipeline that will produce fundamentally better aviators.”
The Flight School Next program represents a significant shift in the Army’s training philosophy. By moving to a Contractor-Owned, Contractor-Operated (COCO) model, the Army seeks to purchase “training services” rather than owning the aircraft and facilities directly. The program requires the training of 900 to 1,500 pilots annually over a 26-year period of performance.
While Lockheed Martin’s press release focuses on its own advancement, broader industry context indicates a competitive field. The program aims to replace the UH-72 Lakota to reduce operating costs while modernizing the curriculum. A final contract award is expected by September 30, 2026.
Lockheed Martin’s advancement to Phase III highlights a strategic divergence in the competition. By branding the aircraft as the “R66 NxG,” Lockheed appears to be differentiating its offering from competitors who may be pitching the standard R66 airframe. The “NxG” designation likely serves to emphasize the integration of Lockheed’s high-tech simulation ecosystem with the airframe, framing the helicopter as a component of a larger “system” rather than a standalone commodity.
Furthermore, the shift back to a single-engine trainer for initial entry students suggests the Army is prioritizing cost-efficiency and fundamental “stick and rudder” skills. Lockheed’s emphasis on its global experience, citing similar military flight school programs in the UK, Australia, and Singapore, suggests it is banking on its reputation as a large-scale logistics and systems manager to win the contract over service-focused or OEMs-focused rivals.
Sources: Lockheed Martin Press Release
Lockheed Martin Advances to Phase III of Army Flight School Next, Taps Robinson R66 NxG
The “NxG” Platform and Training System
Integration with Advanced Simulation
Program Context and Competitive Landscape
AirPro News Analysis
Sources
Photo Credit: Lockheed Martin
Training & Certification
CAE Delivers First Full-Flight Simulator for Eve Air Mobility Pilots
CAE will provide the first CAE 3000 Series full-flight simulator to train Eve Air Mobility eVTOL pilots, supporting certification and training before 2027 service.
At the Singapore Airshow on February 4, 2026, CAE announced a significant milestone in the electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) sector. The training technology giant confirmed it will deliver the first CAE 3000 Series full-flight simulator (FFS) to Embraer-CAE Training Services (ECTS). This device is specifically designated to train the “first wave” of pilots for Eve Air Mobility, Embraer’s eVTOL subsidiary, ahead of the aircraft’s planned entry into service in 2027.
According to the company’s official statement, this delivery represents a critical step in establishing the infrastructure required to operate urban air mobility (UAM) networks safely. The simulator will be used not only for pilot training but also to support the certification of Eve’s aircraft, leveraging high-fidelity visuals to replicate complex urban environments.
The core of this announcement centers on the technological capabilities of the CAE 3000 Series simulator. CAE describes the device as a “breakthrough” due to its integration of the CAE Prodigy™ Visual System, which is powered by Epic Games’ Unreal Engine. While traditional flight simulators often prioritize high-altitude terrain rendering, this new system is optimized for the unique challenges of low-altitude urban flight.
In its press release, CAE highlighted the necessity of this visual fidelity for eVTOL operations:
“The system brings high-fidelity, gaming-grade graphics to professional aviation training, allowing for the ultra-realistic simulation of dense urban environments.”
The simulator is designed to render thousands of dynamic entities simultaneously, including pedestrians, ground traffic, and drones. This level of detail is essential for pilots who will be navigating congested city centers and landing on vertiports surrounded by skyscrapers. The system also features physics-based lighting to simulate realistic shadows and variable weather conditions in “urban canyons,” providing critical visual cues for vertical landings.
The delivery of this simulator is timed to align with Eve Air Mobility’s commercial roadmap. With an entry-into-service target of 2027, the industry faces a tight schedule to qualify the initial cadre of aviators. Embraer-CAE Training Services (ECTS), a joint venture established in 2007 and expanded to include Eve in 2024, will operate the device.
According to data released by Eve Air Mobility, the company holds Letters of Intent (LOI) for approximately 2,900 aircraft. This substantial backlog suggests a future requirement for thousands of qualified pilots. The initial training phase will focus on test pilots, instructor pilots, and the launch operators responsible for the aircraft’s debut.
While the specific location for this first simulator unit was not disclosed in the announcement, ECTS currently operates major training hubs in São Paulo, Dallas, and London (Burgess Hill). We view this announcement as a pivotal moment for the eVTOL industry, shifting the focus from aircraft prototyping to operational readiness. One of the most significant hurdles facing the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) sector is the potential shortage of qualified pilots. By deploying a Level D-capable full-flight simulator, the highest standard of realism in aviation, CAE and Eve are addressing this bottleneck directly.
Furthermore, the use of such high-fidelity simulation for certification purposes signals a mature approach to regulatory compliance. By validating the aircraft and training pilots in a virtual environment that can simulate “edge cases”, such as sudden wind gusts between buildings or rogue drones, the partners are likely aiming to build confidence with regulators like ANAC in Brazil and the FAA in the United States.
Sources: CAE Press Release
CAE to Deliver First “Breakthrough” Simulator for Eve Air Mobility Pilots
Gaming-Grade Visuals for Urban Flight
Strategic Timeline and The “First Wave”
AirPro News Analysis: Solving the Pilot Bottleneck
Sources
Photo Credit: CAE
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