First simulator comes up in Delhi

NEW DELHI: Delhi-based chartered aviation company, Shaurya Aeronautics has started country's first helicopter simulator training at Safdarjung airport in Delhi. The Sandeep Saraf owned group has formed a new company Shaurya Flight Sim (SFS) with an initial investment of Rs 10 crore.

Simulators training, which involves mock flight training in real life conditions and emergencies in a dummy chopper, offered by SFS would be 40% cheaper than similar training offered overseas. The company has taken certification for the courses from the aviation regulator, Director General of Civil Aviation and negotiating with former Air Deccan chief Gopi Nath's Deccan Helicharters and Heligo Charters to train their pilots in India.

Currently, there are 700 helicopter pilots operating in India who have to go abroad regularly to undertake mandatory flying tests and courses every year. In addition, the market requires another 350 helicopter pilots given the existing demand.

SFS chief operating officer Manish Kumar said, "We are the first aviation facility in Asia offering simulation courses for Bell 206 and Bell 407 helicopters in all weather conditions and aviation emergencies. All these training devices are also approved by the American aviation regulator FAA and we are also looking at huge business opportunity in South East Asia and Middle East."

SFS is also negotiating with fixed wing aircraft maker like Boeing and Airbus to offer simulator service in near future. It plans to invest another Rs 100 crore to start simulator services for pilots of Boeing and Airbus aircraft. Currently more than 80% of the total 300 aircraft flown by different airlines in India are made by these two companies.