FlightSafety launches Latitude simulator training programme

FlightSafety International launched its Cessna Citation Latitude simulator training programme on 28 September at its facility in Wichita, Kansas. The inauguration came about a month after the midsize business jet entered service with a US customer.

The company says, until now, Latitude pilots have been training on a Sovereign+ simulator, as the duo share the same Garmin G5000 flightdeck.

A second FS1000 Level D-standard Latitude device will be installed next year at FlightSafety's learning centre in Columbus, Ohio, which is also home to NetJets' global headquarters. The fractional ownership provider is the largest customer for the Latitude, with orders and options for 150 of the nine-seat type. Deliveries to the world’s biggest business jet operator, and Berkshire Hathaway subsidiary, are scheduled to begin in July 2016.

“The FS1000 simulators for the Citation Latitude are designed to replicate the exact flight and performance characteristics of the aircraft,” says New-York-based FlightSafety. “They offer advanced instructional capabilities and are designed for maximum reliability, ease of maintenance and support."

To date, the training provider has 44 Citation business jet and Cessna Caravan single-engined turboprop simulators worldwide.

FlightSafety says it will add extra Latitude devices "if there is enough customer demand".