Dufour Aerospace is partnering with Loft Dynamics to develop the first VR eVTOL aircraft simulator for training future pilots.
Loft Dynamics, which was founded in 2016 and formally known as VRM Switzerland, produces helicopter VR simulators for training helicopter pilots, including a training simulator for the Airbus H125. The company is to work with unmanned drone and eVTOL aircraft developer Dufour Aerospace to make a VR simulator for the hybrid-electric eight-seat Aero3 eVTOL aircraft, which is expected to enter service early 2025.
Fabi Riesen, founder and CEO of Loft Dynamics said, “Our partnership with Dufour Aerospace represents a big stride forward in training a wider range of pilots. It also lays the groundwork for the eventual certification of our eVTOL simulator.
“We started with helicopters, which are extremely challenging to simulate — the physics, motion, and human factors are more complex than in all other aircraft. This is why proving and qualifying our technology in the helicopter market, even beyond what’s mandated at the regulatory level, offers a significant advantage as we move into eVTOLs.
Dufour Aerospace’s tilt-wing Aero3 eVTOL has been designed for use in emergency medical services applications and for operators in urban, regional, and private transportation markets — from air taxi services to VIP transport and deliveries.
Dufour founder and CEO Thomas Pfammatter said, “The VR approach is undoubtedly superior among extended reality training solutions and is critical as we develop a man-machine interface for the Aero3.
“It allows pilots to integrate new concepts quickly and effectively, including tilt-wing operation and fountain lift and suckdown ground effects at low to zero speeds. Most importantly, it enables our pilots to gain experience in a safe and hyper-realistic environment. This will generate invaluable data as we develop the aircraft.”
