New Airbus H160/H175 simulators for Brazil

Airbus has committed to providing full flight H160/H175 simulators for training in Brazil in 2028. The simulators will support the training needs for the growing energy sector in Latin America, demonstrating Airbus’ commitment to customer proximity and aviation safety. The H160/H175 full-flight simulators will have Level D training capabilities and will be qualified by ANAC, the Brazilian civil aviation authority. The latest Helionix version will be included in the simulator cockpits in compliance with the avionics systems of both helicopters. The simulators will also include OEM data packages, which provide the most accurate reproduction of a helicopter’s behavior - enhancing pilot readiness and operational safety.

Romain Trapp, Executive Vice President Customer Support & Services at Airbus Helicopters commented: “Our customers spoke and we listened. We are extremely proud to reinforce our commitment to the Latin America region with the planned introduction of these full flight H160/H175 simulators, providing our customers with enhanced training capabilities closer to home. By staying close to our customers, we are not only supporting their operational needs and helping boost their growth trajectories, but also strengthening aviation safety across the region. This investment underscores our dedication to delivering world-class training solutions that help pilots and crews operate at the highest standards of excellence and safety.”

Brazil is already home to an Airbus Helicopters Simulation Academy located in Rio de Janeiro since 2015. This simulation centre has so far offered nearly 7,500 hours of simulation to almost 600 students. The new addition of the H160/H175 simulators in Brazil will multiply capacity in the region, cementing it as a major training hub in Latin America. 

The demand for medium helicopters in the energy sector over the next decade is expected to exceed 40 units in the Latin America region alone, doubling the number of medium helicopters currently in the region. Meanwhile, the first North American H160 Full Flight Simulator is expected to enter into service in 2026 in Grand Prairie, Texas, boosting training availability in the region. Airbus is currently exploring options to locate future H160 FFS in other growth areas such as Asia and Australia.