Training & Certification
Team M1 Partners to Modernize U.S. Army Pilot Training with R66 Helicopters
M1 Support Services and Robinson Helicopter propose a cost-effective, modernized training solution for the U.S. Army’s Flight School Next program.
The landscape of U.S. Army aviation training is on the brink of a significant transformation. On November 18, 2025, a strategic partnership was announced that could reshape how the next generation of Army aviators learns to fly. M1 Support Services (M1), a seasoned provider of military aviation support, has joined forces with Robinson Helicopter Company, a global leader in civil helicopters manufacturing. Together, as “Team M1,” they are entering the bid for the U.S. Army’s Flight School Next (FSN) training services contract, a forward-thinking initiative designed to modernize pilot instruction from the ground up.
At the heart of the FSN program is a fundamental shift in operational philosophy. The Army is moving towards a Contractor-Owned, Contractor-Operated (COCO) model. This means the winning contractor will not only provide the training curriculum and instructors but will also own, operate, and maintain the entire fleet of training aircraft. The core objectives are twofold: to elevate the proficiency of student pilots through advanced training solutions and to significantly reduce the operational and lifecycle costs for the government. This new approach opens the door for innovative solutions from the private sector, and Team M1’s proposal is a direct response to this call for a more efficient and effective training paradigm.
The partnership between M1 Support Services and Robinson Helicopter Company creates a formidable contender for the FSN contract. Each partner brings a distinct and complementary set of skills to the table, forming a holistic solution aimed directly at the Army’s stated needs. M1 steps into the role of prime contractor, leveraging its extensive experience in managing large-scale aviation Training programs for the U.S. military. The company is already deeply embedded in the Army’s training ecosystem, with a major presence at Fort Rucker, Alabama, the home of Army aviation. There, M1 supports a massive 240,000 Flying Hour Program, overseeing the daily scheduling, maintenance, and flight operations for hundreds of aircraft.
As the prime contractor, M1 is responsible for weaving together all the components of the FSN proposal. This extends beyond just the aircraft. As M1 CEO George Krivo stated, their approach is about delivering a complete package. “In addition to R66 helicopters, our holistic solution for Flight School Next features innovative training and simulation technologies that are truly transformative,” he explained. “M1 will provide high-quality pilot training at a more affordable cost for our partners.” This highlights a commitment to integrating modern simulation and training aids alongside the physical aircraft to create a more immersive and effective learning environment for new pilots.
Robinson Helicopter Company, in turn, serves as the exclusive aircraft provider for Team M1. Based in Torrance, California, Robinson has built a global reputation for producing reliable, cost-effective, and robust helicopters. The company’s vertically integrated Manufacturing process, where 85% of all parts for its proposed R66 model are fabricated in-house, ensures a stable and secure domestic supply chain. While Robinson’s primary market has historically been civilian, its helicopters are not strangers to military training. Various models are already used by international military and law enforcement agencies, including the Nigerian and Royal Jordanian Air Forces, proving their capability in a rigorous training context.
This collaboration is a calculated move. M1 provides the logistical and programmatic backbone, with proven experience in military operations and training management. Robinson supplies a purpose-built, commercially successful aircraft platform known for its reliability and economic efficiency. Together, they present a unified front, aiming to deliver a turn-key solution that promises to meet the Army’s performance requirements while offering tangible cost savings.
“M1 will provide high-quality pilot training at a more affordable cost for our partners.”, George Krivo, CEO of M1 Support Services
The centerpiece of Team M1’s bid is the Robinson R66 helicopter. The selection of this aircraft is a deliberate choice, reflecting a “back to basics” philosophy combined with modern engineering. The R66 is a light, single-engine turbine helicopter renowned for its straightforward design and dependable performance. This simplicity is positioned as a key advantage for initial flight training, allowing student pilots to master the core principles of rotary-wing flight without being overwhelmed by overly complex systems. David Smith, CEO of Robinson Helicopter Company, described the aircraft as “simple, affordable, robust and fit for purpose,” emphasizing its suitability for the foundational stages of a pilot’s career.
The argument for the R66 is heavily supported by its extensive track record. It is not an unproven concept but a globally recognized training platform. According to Lt. Gen. Doug Gabram, U.S. Army (Retired) and an M1 Strategic Advisor, “More than 1,900 Robinson helicopters are used for civil and military flight training programs worldwide.” This widespread adoption speaks volumes about its reliability and effectiveness in an instructional setting. Gen. Gabram further noted that the R66 is “safe, rugged, and reliable,” calling it “the perfect training aircraft for the Army” and highlighting that it “offers lower operating costs than any competitor.” The economic benefits are a cornerstone of the proposal. The FSN program’s goal of reducing costs aligns perfectly with the R66’s operational profile. Its lower fuel consumption, simpler maintenance requirements, and the availability of a strong domestic supply chain for parts all contribute to a reduced total cost of ownership. This efficiency allows the Army to allocate resources more effectively, potentially increasing flight hours for students or investing in other critical areas of the training curriculum. The choice of the R66 represents a strategic pivot from the more complex aircraft currently used, focusing on building a strong foundation of flying skills in a reliable and economically sensible platform.
The competition for the FSN contract is robust, with major industry players like Bell and Leonardo Helicopters also expected to contend for the program. This competitive environment underscores the importance of the contract and the broader trend of modernizing military training. Team M1’s bid, with its unique combination of M1’s operational expertise and Robinson’s proven R66 platform, presents a distinct and compelling alternative for the future of Army aviation.
The Partnerships between M1 Support Services and Robinson Helicopter Company represents a significant and focused effort to address the U.S. Army’s call for a modernized flight training program. By combining M1’s deep experience in military aviation support with Robinson’s globally proven and cost-effective R66 helicopter, Team M1 has put forth a comprehensive solution for the Flight School Next initiative. Their proposal is built on the core principles of the FSN program: enhancing pilot proficiency through a purpose-built platform and innovative simulation, while simultaneously driving down operational costs through the efficiency of a Contractor-Owned, Contractor-Operated model.
Should Team M1 succeed, it would not only mark a major entry for Robinson Helicopter Company into the U.S. military market but could also signal a broader shift in military procurement strategy. The bid champions the idea that proven, commercially available technology can be effectively leveraged to meet military requirements, offering a pathway to greater efficiency and affordability. The outcome of the FSN contract competition will undoubtedly set the course for how the next generation of Army aviators is trained, and the M1-Robinson proposal has positioned itself as a powerful contender in shaping that future.
Question: What is the U.S. Army’s Flight School Next (FSN) program? Question: Who are the main partners in the “Team M1” bid? Question: What helicopter is being proposed by Team M1?
A New Flight Plan: M1 and Robinson Team Up for U.S. Army Pilot Training
The Strategic Alliance of Team M1
A Union of Expertise and Innovation
The R66: A New Trainer for a New Era
Proven, Reliable, and Cost-Effective
Conclusion: Charting the Future of Army Aviation
FAQ
Answer: The FSN program is an initiative to modernize the U.S. Army’s initial pilot training. It uses a Contractor-Owned, Contractor-Operated (COCO) model, where the winning bidder will own and manage the training aircraft and curriculum to enhance pilot proficiency and reduce costs.
Answer: Team M1 is a partnership between M1 Support Services, which will act as the prime contractor, and Robinson Helicopter Company, which will provide the training aircraft.
Answer: Team M1 is proposing the Robinson R66, a light single-engine turbine helicopter known for its reliability, simple design, and cost-effective operation. It is already used in over 1,900 training programs worldwide.
Sources
Photo Credit: M1
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
-
Commercial Aviation6 days agoVietnam Grounds 28 Aircraft Amid Pratt & Whitney Engine Shortage
-
Business Aviation3 days agoGreg Biffle and Family Die in North Carolina Plane Crash
-
Defense & Military4 days agoFinland Unveils First F-35A Lightning II under HX Fighter Program
-
Business Aviation2 days agoBombardier Global 8000 Gains FAA Certification as Fastest Business Jet
-
Business Aviation4 days agoBombardier Launches Smart Router for Next-Gen Aircraft Connectivity