Technology trends in the aviation industry are impacting pilot training in a positive way. The Internet of Things (IoT) brought digital transformation that supports pre-flight aviation training, including via simulators, virtual reality (VR), and e-learning platforms. At Monmouth Jet Center, we know you are never too old or young to learn to fly as long as you have the proper training.
Did you know Monmouth Jet Center (MJC) at Monmouth Executive Airport (BLM) has two new Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approved LPV approach procedures for runways 14 and 32? Safety is always our priority, and these approaches give our aviators more choices. We want trainees and experienced pilots to enjoy BLM as one of the safest privately owned airports in the Northeast!
In this article, we discuss modern aviation training, how digital learning enhances pilot training, and invite you to join our flight school.
The Foundation of Modern Aviation Training
Safety is non-negotiable throughout the aviation industry and is also the foundation of modern aviation training. New aircraft are more complex than those with mechanical instrumentation, and modern flight training requires student pilots to be exposed to digitally-equipped cockpits via actual flights or other means.
As a pilot, you are responsible for the lives of anyone flying with you while managing multiple factors – and a digital cockpit increases the pressure. Trainee pilots must be so familiar with a digital cockpit environment that they comfortably manage time-critical/high-stress environments. There is still a place for analog cockpits in aviation, but modern pilots need to learn via modern technology.
The Rise of Virtual Reality and Flight Simulators for Pilot Training
Pilots are continuously managing risks in real time, and there is a vast difference between theoretical training and actually flying an airplane. A flight simulator for pilot training replicates the look and feel of a real airplane, but exposes trainees to potential risks in a controlled and safe environment. There is a range of FAA-qualified flight simulation training devices available.
Monmouth Jet Center also welcomes helicopter pilots as we are only a 20-minute helicopter ride to the center of Manhattan. A virtual reality (VR) flight simulation training device (FSTD) for helicopter pilots has been qualified by the FAA for the first time – how cool is that? The simulator has a virtual cockpit, verified flight modeling, and a motion platform that simulates flight scenarios and movements. The qualification is a step forward for virtual reality in pilot training in the United States.
Flight Training Online: E-Learning Platforms
One positive take away from the 2020 pandemic is accelerated learning via digital platforms. As a result, flight schools are increasingly offering FAA-required theoretical courses online. The e-learning courses for trainee pilots include instrument flight rules (IFR), commercial pilot license (CPL) theory, and private pilot license (PPL) theory. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) also offers flight safety e-learning via virtual and in-person classroom sessions. Although online learning can benefit trainees, it is often during face-to-face classes that you learn how experienced pilots handle real-life situations.
Future Trends in Aviation Training Technology
Are artificial intelligence (AI) and autonomous aircraft going to make pilot training irrelevant? These two future trends will definitely affect aviation training technology development. Big data and AI are currently used to optimize flight routes, schedule maintenance, and provide actionable intelligence to pilots and air traffic controllers. Pilotless planes are not yet a reality, but electric virtual take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, which also contribute to the aviation industry’s sustainability goals, are already being tested.
Aviation training technology offers great opportunities, but do you want to learn to fly the “old-fashioned” way? Join Elite Flight Experience, the NJ flight school offered at Monmouth Executive Airport! They are a Cirrus Platinum Partner Training Center with specially certified flight instructors. Explore regional destinations while you learn to fly Cirrus SR22 or SR20 aircraft.
Contact us today to join the flight school or use any of our NJ flight services.