Training & Certification
European Heli Center Begins Rotorbase Training Facility at Lelystad
European Heli Center launches Rotorbase training hub at Lelystad Airport with Level D simulators for Airbus H135 and H145 helicopters.
European Heli Center Breaks Ground on “Rotorbase” Training Facility
The landscape of European aviation training is set for a significant expansion as the European Heli Center (EHC) officially begins construction on a new headquarters and training complex. Located at Lelystad Airport in the Netherlands, this new facility, branded as “Rotorbase,” represents a strategic effort to centralize helicopters operations, maintenance, and advanced simulation under one roof. The project marks a collaborative milestone involving EHC, simulator manufacturer Reiser Simulation and Training, and the simulator operator Vertisim.
Construction on the facility commenced in November 2025, signaling the start of a development timeline that aims to deliver a fully operational training ecosystem by early 2027. The initiative is designed to address the evolving needs of the helicopter industry by moving away from the traditional flight school model. Instead, the project aims to create a multi-disciplinary hub capable of supporting diverse sectors, including Emergency Medical Services (EMS), police forces, offshore operations, and commercial aviation.
The decision to situate this hub at Lelystad Airport aligns with the location’s growing reputation as a center for general aviation and aerospace innovation. By integrating high-fidelity simulation with practical flight training and technical maintenance, the facility aims to streamline the logistical challenges often faced by operators. We observe that this development comes at a time when the industry is seeking more efficient, cost-effective ways to maintain pilot proficiency across complex mission profiles.
A New Ecosystem for Helicopter Operations
The “Rotorbase” concept distinguishes itself by functioning as a comprehensive ecosystem rather than a standalone training center. According to project details, the facility will serve as the new European headquarters for EHC, an entity formed through the merger of Helicentre in the Netherlands and the European Helicopter Center in Norway. With a combined fleet of 21 helicopters and over 45 years of operational experience, the organization is positioning this new base to support “Harvard-level” training standards, ranging from private licensing to advanced mission-specific instruction.
The infrastructure at Lelystad Airport is being developed to house not only classrooms and briefing rooms but also maintenance hangars and technical support services. This integration allows for a seamless flow between theoretical instruction, simulator sessions, and actual flight time. For operators, the ability to conduct heavy maintenance and pilot recurrent training in a single location offers potential operational efficiencies, reducing the downtime associated with sending crews and aircraft to separate locations.
The timeline for the project is ambitious yet structured. Following the start of construction in late 2025, the physical building is projected to be completed by the fourth quarter of 2026. The installation and calibration of the training equipment are scheduled to follow immediately, with the facility expected to be fully operational for pilot training by the first quarter of 2027. This schedule reflects the complexity of installing certified aviation training devices, which require rigorous testing before regulatory approval.
“Together with REISER, we are creating a facility that will define the future of helicopter training in Europe.”, Jeroen Peddemors, CEO of European Heli Center.
Advanced Simulation Technology
At the core of the Rotorbase facility is the acquisition of a Level D Full Flight Simulator (FFS), manufactured by Reiser Simulation and Training. In the aviation industry, Level D qualification represents the highest standard of flight simulation. It provides such high fidelity in motion, visuals, and systems integration that regulatory bodies allow pilots to log flight hours in the device that count directly toward their license and mission ratings. This capability is critical for training dangerous procedures, such as engine failures or severe weather operations, which cannot be safely practiced in a real aircraft.
The simulator selected for the facility features advanced roll-on/roll-off technology, a system that allows for the physical reconfiguration of the cockpit. This design enables the simulator to switch between the Airbus H135 and Airbus H145 helicopter types. These two airframes are among the most widely used twin-engine helicopters globally, particularly in the EMS and law enforcement sectors. The ability to train on both types within the same facility addresses a common logistical hurdle for operators who maintain mixed fleets.
Vertisim, a partner entity within the Rotorbase complex, will house and operate the simulator. This arrangement allows EHC to focus on curriculum delivery while ensuring the technical operation of the device is managed by specialists. The simulator is expected to support the latest avionics suites, including the H145 D3 standard, ensuring that pilots are training on systems that match the modern aircraft currently entering service.
“The start of construction brings us one step closer to delivering a modern and efficient training capability for operators worldwide.”, Dr. Johannes Hain, CEO of Reiser Simulation and Training.
Strategic Implications for the Industry
The establishment of this facility addresses a broader context within the global aviation market: a persistent demand for highly skilled helicopter pilots. As sectors such as offshore wind energy and air ambulance services expand, the requirement for pilots proficient in twin-engine operations continues to grow. By providing a centralized location for H135 and H145 training, the facility aims to support the workforce development necessary to sustain these critical services.
Furthermore, the project highlights the continued evolution of Lelystad Airport. While the airport has faced political complexities regarding commercial airline traffic, it has successfully attracted investments in general aviation and high-tech aerospace sectors. The Rotorbase project reinforces this trajectory, establishing a high-value training hub that operates independently of commercial runway slots, thereby utilizing the airport’s infrastructure to its full potential without relying on holiday traffic.
Looking ahead, the integration of simulation and live flying at this scale may set a new benchmark for European training centers. As regulatory requirements for mission training become more stringent, the availability of Level D simulators accessible to third-party operators becomes increasingly vital. The collaboration between EHC, Reiser, and Vertisim suggests a model where hardware manufacturers and training providers work in closer proximity to deliver tailored solutions to the market.
Conclusion
The groundbreaking of the Rotorbase facility at Lelystad Airport marks a pivotal moment for the European Heli Center and its partners. By combining a large-scale training fleet with state-of-the-art Level D simulation for Airbus H135 and H145 helicopters, the project is poised to become a central node in the European helicopter industry. The anticipated opening in early 2027 will likely offer operators a streamlined solution for their training and maintenance requirements.
As the aviation industry continues to demand higher standards of safety and efficiency, facilities that integrate multiple aspects of operations, from ab initio training to advanced mission simulation, will play a crucial role. We will continue to monitor the progress of the construction and the subsequent operational rollout of the simulator technology as the project moves toward its completion date.
FAQ
What is the “Rotorbase”?
Rotorbase is the name of the new training facility and headquarters being built by the European Heli Center at Lelystad Airport. It is designed as an ecosystem combining flight training, simulation, and maintenance.
When will the new facility be operational?
Construction began in November 2025. The building is expected to be ready by Q4 2026, with the simulator and full training operations scheduled to launch in Q1 2027.
Which helicopters does the simulator support?
The facility will feature a Reiser Level D Full Flight Simulator capable of supporting both the Airbus H135 and Airbus H145 via a roll-on/roll-off interchangeable cockpit system.
Sources
Photo Credit: Reiser Simulation and Training
Training & Certification
Piaggio Aerospace Extends Military Training Certification Including VC-180C
Piaggio Aerospace extends its AER(EP).P-147 certification to include VC-180C maintenance training, supporting Italy’s Air Force under Baykar ownership.
This article is based on an official press release from Piaggio Aerospace, supplemented by industry research data.
On May 4, 2026, Piaggio Aerospace announced a significant regulatory milestone, confirming that the Italian Directorate of Aeronautical Armaments and Airworthiness (DAAA) has officially extended the company’s AER(EP).P-147 certification. According to the company’s press release, this extension allows the aerospace manufacturer to continue delivering certified military aircraft maintenance training to technical personnel.
The updated approval notably broadens Piaggio Aerospace’s training portfolio to include the VC-180C, the Italian military designation for the P.180 EVO+ aircraft. This expansion ensures that the company can provide specialized maintenance training to support both current operational fleets and evolving mission requirements for the Italian armed forces.
We note that this certification marks a critical step in Piaggio Aerospace’s ongoing revitalization. Following its high-profile acquisitions by Turkish aerospace manufacturer Baykar in 2025, the renewed DAAA approval signals the company’s continued stability and integration within Italy’s national defense ecosystem.
Regulatory Approval and the AER(EP).P-147 Standard
The AER(EP).P-147 standard serves as the Italian military’s direct implementation of the European Defence Agency’s EMAR 147 framework. As detailed in the Piaggio Aerospace press release, this standard defines the strict regulatory requirements for Maintenance Training Organizations (MTOs) tasked with training and certifying technical personnel who support military aircraft operations.
By securing this extension, Piaggio Aerospace consolidates its status as an approved training organization within Italy’s defense aviation sector. The company stated in its release that the renewed certification confirms its adherence to the rigorous quality assurance, instructional, and compliance benchmarks mandated by military aviation authorities. This framework is designed to guarantee consistently high levels of technical proficiency and safety awareness across military aviation maintenance.
Expanding Capabilities with the VC-180C Platform
Modernizing the Italian Fleet
The most prominent update to Piaggio’s authorized training portfolio is the integration of the VC-180C. Industry research profiles the VC-180C as a heavily modernized iteration of the classic Avanti twin-turboprop. The aircraft features digital avionics, a redesigned cabin interior, digitally controlled pressurization, and an advanced landing gear system equipped with cutting-edge anti-skid braking and steering.
According to defense procurement data, the Italian Ministry of Defence previously ordered 15 new P.180 EVO+ aircraft, allocating nine specifically to the Italian Air Force (Aeronautica Militare). The VC-180C is designed to replace the older VC-180A (Avanti I) models. As of July 2025, industry reports indicate that the new aircraft has been actively utilized by the Air Transport Training School (S.A.T.A.) at the Pratica di Mare airbase for advanced multicrew training, VIP transport, and radio frequency calibration.
Corporate Revitalization Under Baykar
A Strategic Acquisition
To fully understand the weight of this regulatory approval, it is necessary to look at Piaggio Aerospace’s recent corporate history. Founded in 1884, the company entered extraordinary administration in 2018 after its previous majority shareholder withdrew financial backing. In December 2024, the Italian Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy approved the sale of the company to Baykar, a transaction that was officially finalized on June 30, 2025, creating the new entity “Baykar Piaggio Aerospace S.p.A.”
Industry research outlines Baykar’s industrial strategy, which includes preserving the workforce at Piaggio’s Villanova d’Albenga and Genoa facilities, ramping up P.180 Avanti production to an estimated 25 to 30 aircraft annually, and expanding engine maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capabilities.
Speaking on the acquisition finalized in 2025, Baykar CEO Haluk Bayraktar emphasized the company’s commitment to the Italian manufacturer:
“Our goal is to revitalize Piaggio Aerospace with a bold industrial vision that builds on its legacy while unlocking its full potential for the future. We deeply respect the talented and hardworking people who have kept this company going through challenging times…”
Italian Minister of Enterprises and Made in Italy, Adolfo Urso, also commented on the government’s approval of the takeover, noting its importance to the national aerospace sector:
“[The acquisition is] a strategic milestone in the relaunch of one of Italy’s historical aerospace brands with a major international investor… [providing] a future with a long-term production perspective, safeguarding corporate complexes and workforce.”
AirPro News analysis
At AirPro News, we view the DAAA’s extension of the AER(EP).P-147 certification as a strong vote of confidence from the Italian government in the newly formed Baykar Piaggio Aerospace S.p.A. The approval ensures that the Italian Air Force maintains a secure, domestic pipeline of highly certified technicians capable of servicing the new VC-180C fleet, thereby reducing reliance on foreign MRO contractors.
Furthermore, the successful integration of Piaggio Aerospace into Baykar’s portfolio highlights a broader trend of cross-border defense consolidation between NATO allies. It demonstrates that foreign capital can effectively rescue and revitalize strategic national assets without compromising strict national security and military compliance standards, paving the way for future collaborative aerospace projects in Europe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the AER(EP).P-147 certification?
It is the Italian military’s implementation of the European Defence Agency’s EMAR 147 framework. It sets the regulatory, instructional, and quality standards for organizations that train and certify military aircraft maintenance personnel.
What is the VC-180C?
The VC-180C is the Italian military designation for the Piaggio P.180 EVO+, a modernized twin-turboprop aircraft featuring digital avionics and advanced landing gear systems, currently utilized by the Italian Air Force.
Who owns Piaggio Aerospace?
Following a transaction finalized on June 30, 2025, Piaggio Aerospace is owned by the Turkish aerospace manufacturer Baykar, operating under the newly formed entity Baykar Piaggio Aerospace S.p.A.
Sources
Photo Credit: Piaggio Aerospace
Training & Certification
A-VIATOR Flight School Standardizes Fleet with Tecnam Aircraft
Belgian flight school A-VIATOR orders Tecnam P2008JC NG to standardize fleet and expand training programs in 2026.
Belgian flight school A-VIATOR has officially committed to standardizing its Commercial-Aircraft training fleet with Tecnam aircraft, marking a significant step in its long-term growth Strategy. The announcement, made live from the AERO Friedrichshafen exhibition in Germany, centers on A-VIATOR’s new Orders for a Tecnam P2008JC NG.
According to an official press release from Tecnam Aircraft, the decision follows a period of rapid expansion for the Kortrijk-Wevelgem-based academy. A-VIATOR reported doubling its student base in 2025 compared to the previous year, driven by strong demand for its Private Pilot License (PPL) and Night VFR training programs.
We note that this fleet transition highlights a broader industry trend of flight schools seeking modern, fuel-efficient aircraft to streamline maintenance and reduce operating costs while accommodating growing student enrollments.
Transitioning to a Standardized Fleet
Operational Efficiency and Expansion
The move to an all-Tecnam fleet is designed to provide A-VIATOR with a high level of standardization. In a company press release, Tecnam stated that this strategic step will significantly improve operational efficiency, maintenance planning, and the overall consistency of pilot Training.
A-VIATOR introduced its first Tecnam aircraft, a P2010, in March 2026. The successful integration of this aircraft served as the catalyst for the academy’s decision to transition its entire fleet. The newly ordered P2008JC NG is expected to complement this vision by offering a modern, fuel-efficient, and pilot-friendly training environment that drastically reduces both operating costs and Emissions.
Leadership Perspectives
The leadership at both A-VIATOR and Tecnam expressed strong optimism about the Partnerships future. The positive reception from students played a crucial role in the academy’s fleet strategy.
“Following the introduction of our first Tecnam aircraft in March 2026, we immediately saw an overwhelmingly positive response from our students. The feedback has been exceptionally enthusiastic, with everyone praising both the aircraft itself and its modern design. For me, this confirmed that Tecnam was going to be our future partner, one that will play a key role in helping us shape and grow the story of A-VIATOR in the years to come.”
Tecnam also highlighted the validation this order brings to their aircraft lineup.
“We are thrilled to partner with a dynamic and fast-growing academy like A-VIATOR. Their decision to standardize their fleet with Tecnam after experiencing the P2010 is a strong validation of our aircraft’s quality, efficiency, and appeal to the next generation of aviators. The P2008JC NG will perfectly support their new training programs and continued expansion in the Belgian market.”
Future Training Programs and Growth
Expanding the Curriculum
As A-VIATOR continues to grow, the academy is preparing to expand its training portfolio. According to the Tecnam press release, the school plans to introduce Basic Instrument Rating (BIR) and Competency-Based Instrument Rating (CBIR) programs in 2026. This expansion represents an important step toward offering a complete modular professional pilot pathway for its students.
The integration of the P2008JC NG will directly support these new programs, providing students with advanced avionics and reliable performance necessary for instrument training.
AirPro News analysis
The decision by A-VIATOR to standardize its fleet with Tecnam underscores a critical operational strategy for growing flight schools. By operating a unified fleet from a single manufacturer, academies can significantly reduce the logistical complexities associated with maintenance, spare parts inventory, and instructor standardization. Furthermore, as environmental concerns and fuel costs continue to impact the aviation sector, the shift toward modern, fuel-efficient trainers like the P2008JC NG positions flight schools to operate more sustainably and profitably. We anticipate that other regional flight academies experiencing similar growth trajectories may follow suit in modernizing and standardizing their fleets to maintain competitive training rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What aircraft did A-VIATOR recently order?
According to the official press release, A-VIATOR ordered a new Tecnam P2008JC NG to support its fleet standardization and expansion.
When did A-VIATOR introduce its first Tecnam aircraft?
A-VIATOR introduced its first Tecnam aircraft, a P2010, in March 2026.
What new training programs is A-VIATOR planning to offer?
The flight school plans to introduce Basic Instrument Rating (BIR) and Competency-Based Instrument Rating (CBIR) programs in 2026.
Sources
Photo Credit: Tecnam
Training & Certification
Greybird Aviation Expands European Fleet with 13 New Tecnam Aircraft
Greybird Aviation Group orders 13 Tecnam aircraft to support European pilot training expansion with a uniform Garmin glass cockpit fleet.
Greybird Aviation Group Expands Fleet with 13 New Tecnam Aircraft at AERO 2026
According to an official press release from Italian aircraft manufacturer Tecnam, Denmark-based Greybird Aviation Group has signed a major fleet expansion agreement at the AERO Friedrichshafen 2026 exhibition. The premier flight academy has placed an orders for 13 new aircraft to support its rapidly growing pilot training operations across Europe.
The acquisition comprises 10 Tecnam P-Mentor single-engine trainers and three Tecnam P2006T NG (Next Generation) twin-engine aircraft. As noted in the company’s announcement, this strategic purchase is designed to integrate advanced, sustainable training platforms into Greybird’s European bases while maintaining a highly standardized cockpit environment for its cadets.
We understand from industry research that this order is part of a broader, aggressive European expansion strategy by Greybird, aimed at addressing the looming global commercial pilot shortage by graduating highly proficient, airline-ready cadets.
The “Uniform Fleet” Training Philosophy
A cornerstone of Greybird Aviation Group’s operational model is its “uniform fleet” philosophy. Operating a mixed fleet of different aircraft brands often forces student pilots to relearn cockpit layouts and avionics logic, which can waste valuable flight hours. By standardizing its fleet, Greybird aims to drastically reduce transition times and enhance overall training safety.
According to the press release, both the P-Mentor and the P2006T NG feature identical Garmin glass cockpit logic. This allows cadets to train on state-of-the-art digital displays from their very first primary flight lesson through to their final multi-engine commercial checkride.
“At Greybird, our core philosophy is to provide our cadets with the most modern, uniform, and airline-relevant training environment possible. The Tecnam P-Mentor and P2006T NG are the perfect fit for this vision. This 13-aircraft order allows us to sustainably scale our operations across our European bases while ensuring our students are flying the absolute best glass-cockpit aircraft on the market today.”
Aircraft Specifications and Synergy
Industry data and the official announcement detail the specific roles these two aircraft models will play in Greybird’s curriculum:
- Tecnam P-Mentor (10 ordered): Serving as the primary two-seat, single-engine and instrument (IFR) trainer, the P-Mentor is powered by a 100-horsepower Rotax 912iSc engine and features a Garmin G3X glass cockpit. Certified to the latest EASA CS-23 Amendment 6 safety standards, industry research notes it burns approximately 14 liters (3.7 gallons) of fuel per hour, making it highly efficient.
- Tecnam P2006T NG (3 ordered): The four-seat, twin-engine advanced commercial trainer utilizes two Rotax 912 iSc3 engines and a Garmin G1000 NXi suite. It features retractable landing gear and constant-speed variable pitch propellers, allowing students to master complex multi-engine aerodynamics while utilizing the same Garmin interface learned in the P-Mentor.
European Expansion and Financial Backing
Greybird’s 13-aircraft order is a direct result of its rapid scaling across the continent. Headquartered at Aarhus Airport in Denmark, the academy operates a network of “city bases.” Industry research indicates that in addition to existing locations in Denmark, Sweden, and Spain, Greybird expanded its Nordic footprint by opening new bases in Finland and Norway in early 2026. The academy currently trains over 130 commercial pilots annually.
This growth is financially supported by Danish private equity firm Dansk Ejerkapital, which acquired a 45% minority stake in Greybird in November 2024. According to industry reports, this capital injection was earmarked for fleet growth, European expansion, and the development of “SmartBird,” Greybird’s proprietary Software as a Service (SaaS) platform used to manage training and administration.
“We’re impressed by the business Søren Møller has built. From the outset, he has integrated scalability, quality, and efficiency into the business model, making excellent use of data.”
Sustainability and Industry Impact
Flight schools are under increasing pressure to reduce their carbon footprint, and the selection of Tecnam aircraft aligns with this industry-wide mandate. The Tecnam press release highlights that the P-Mentor allows Greybird to conduct training with the lowest fuel consumption and emissions in its class. Supplemental research suggests the aircraft offers up to a 60% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to traditional IFR competitors.
“Greybird has built a reputation for innovation and excellence in flight training. Their commitment to a standardized, high-tech fleet is exactly what modern airlines are looking for in graduating cadets. We are extremely proud to secure this order at AERO 2026 and to provide Greybird with a highly efficient, sustainable fleet that will power their European expansion for years to come.”
AirPro News analysis
We view Greybird Aviation Group’s latest acquisition as a textbook example of how modern flight academies must adapt to survive and thrive in the current aviation landscape. The global pilot shortage is not just a numbers game; airlines are specifically demanding cadets who are highly proficient in “glass cockpit” environments that mirror the digital flight decks of modern Boeing and Airbus airliners.
By committing to a uniform Garmin-equipped fleet, Greybird is effectively eliminating the “negative transfer” of skills that occurs when students switch between analog dials and digital screens. Furthermore, the integration of their proprietary “SmartBird” SaaS platform alongside highly fuel-efficient Rotax-powered aircraft demonstrates a sophisticated, data-driven approach to flight training. This combination of reduced fuel overhead, streamlined maintenance, and accelerated student progression makes the academy highly attractive not only to prospective airline employers but also to ESG-conscious private equity investors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What aircraft did Greybird Aviation Group order at AERO 2026?
Greybird ordered a total of 13 aircraft from Tecnam: 10 single-engine Tecnam P-Mentors and 3 twin-engine Tecnam P2006T NGs.
Why is a “uniform fleet” important for flight training?
A uniform fleet utilizes identical or highly similar cockpit layouts and avionics (like Garmin glass displays) across different aircraft types. This prevents students from having to relearn basic instrument scanning when transitioning from single-engine to multi-engine aircraft, saving time and improving safety.
Who owns Greybird Aviation Group?
Greybird was founded by Søren Møller in 2012. In November 2024, Danish private equity firm Dansk Ejerkapital acquired a 45% minority stake to help fund the company’s European expansion.
Sources:
Photo Credit: Tecnam
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