FlightSafety International Advances Mixed Reality Training to Enhance Pilot Readiness and Reduce Aircraft Dependency
Columbus, OH (September 4, 2025) – FlightSafety International, a global leader in aviation training and simulation, today announced the expansion of its mixed reality (MR) capabilities as part of a broader strategy to enhance aviation safety and pilot readiness, reduce aircraft dependency, and provide more scalable training pathways across both fixed- and rotary-wing platforms.
This advancement reflects FlightSafety’s continued investment in next-generation visual systems and advanced training solutions. As an early innovator of MR in the flight training space, FlightSafety’s independently developed VITAL MR technology delivers high-fidelity environments that support mission-specific training needs. Deployed across a range of simulation devices, MR adds an immersive, scenario-based layer of instruction that is ideal for cockpit procedures, visual maneuvers, and systems familiarization. MR adds consistency to the training experience, increases availability, and reduces the reliance on in-air training.
“FlightSafety has been shaping the role of mixed reality in aviation training since its earliest applications,” said Barbara Telek, President, FlightSafety International. “As the technology secures broader regulatory certifications and adoption, we remain committed to innovating responsibly and delivering solutions that raise the bar for safety and efficiency while maintaining the rigorous standards our customers expect.”
FlightSafety’s VITAL MR technology is already being deployed in certified training environments through key industry partners. BRUNNER, a leader in flight simulator systems, has integrated VITAL MR into its NOVASIM MR DA42 trainer, which was recently qualified under EASA standards in Switzerland. This qualification underscores the credibility and adaptability of VITAL MR in meeting regulatory requirements for mixed reality training across both in-house and partner-developed platforms.
“We are proud to lead the way in redefining aviation training by achieving the world’s first qualification for a mixed-reality simulator,” said Roger Klingler, CEO of BRUNNER. “FlightSafety’s VITAL MR technology is a key enabler for this breakthrough.”
Recent enhancements and technical upgrades have been made to VITAL MR, including dynamic light-level adjustment in the MR cameras to better match the virtual environment, NVG emulation, and chroma key support for applications such as chin windows and other unique aircraft visibility requirements. Additional features such as a simulated collimated HUD and a virtual laser pointer for instructor-guided training further elevate the system’s realism and instructional value.
“Mixed reality is one tool within our broader training ecosystem, which is designed to complement the full spectrum of simulation products and curriculum,” said Ben Carter, EVP, Learning Center Operations, FlightSafety International. “By integrating MR into scalable devices, we’re helping our customers enhance readiness, increase training accessibility, and reduce operational costs.”
A recent evolution from FlightSafety is the introduction of the first dual-pilot mixed reality Part-Task Trainer (PTT), expanding the scope of immersive training for rotary-wing operations. Developed by Frasca, a FlightSafety company, this advancement builds on ongoing work with the U.S. government, where VITAL MR has been successfully implemented in Unit Training Devices (UTDs). The PTT enables simultaneous pilot and copilot training in a shared cockpit environment, accelerating the development of critical skills and enabling earlier transfer of learning, including crew resource management (CRM) competencies, from simulator to aircraft.
“Frasca’s MR trainer exemplifies the kind of innovation FlightSafety continues to drive across our training portfolio,” said John Frasca, President, Frasca International Inc. “As the needs of our customers evolve, we remain committed to delivering flexible solutions and thoughtful innovation across the entire learning continuum.”
The MR trainer features dual Varjo head-mounted displays (HMDs), NVG emulation, integrated avionics, and tactile controls that replicate real-world missions in a fully immersive virtual setting. Unlike many VR-only solutions, pilots in MR devices can see and interact with physical cockpit elements, such as soft keys, buttons, and knobs, enhancing realism and training efficacy.
Built on Frasca’s independently developed flight models, the device supports multi-crew scenarios and seamless progression to higher-level Flight Training Devices (FTDs). The integrated tactile experience and visual alignment help reduce disorientation and cognitive fatigue, supporting a realistic training experience while minimizing sensory overload. It is intentionally integrated into a broader curriculum that includes ground school and high-fidelity FTDs, balancing the use of extended reality (XR) technologies to ensure training consistency without overexposure to virtual environments.
FlightSafety is actively expanding MR configurations to support a wider range of training environments across defense, business aviation, commercial operations, and academic institutions. These efforts reflect the company’s ongoing commitment to delivering immersive, practical technologies that evolve with the training needs of aviation professionals worldwide.
About FlightSafety International
FlightSafety International is the world’s preeminent professional aviation training company and supplier of flight simulators, visual systems, and displays to educational, commercial, government, and military organizations. The company elevates safety standards across the aviation industry through rigorous training for pilots, technicians, and other professionals from 170+ countries. In business for more than 70 years, FlightSafety currently operates the world’s largest fleet of advanced full-flight simulators at learning centers and training locations on six continents. For more information, please visit flightsafety.com.
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