The Netherlands, February 23, 2018 – The DC-3 simulator of Multi Pilot Simulations b.v. (MPS) was certified by the Dutch CAA on behalf of EASA as an FTD-2. The DC-3 simulator was previously certified as an FNPT II. The device has the highest EASA certification level that is possible for a Fixed Base Simulator (equivalent to FAA Level 6/7) and is the only certified DC-3 simulator in the world.
This means that pilots can train a substantial part of their type rating on a DC-3 simulator at MPS premises in Groenekan, the Netherlands. The simulator was developed in close cooperation with the Dutch Dakota Association (DDA) and was largely modeled after the PH-PBA aircraft.
Dick Verburg, MPS President & CEO: “Our MPS team has worked many years on the development of this simulator and this FTD2 certification is the final milestone for us. We are delighted that we can now train DC-3 pilots since we have operator status. This will make a substantial contribution to flight safety for this unique class of aircraft. We’d like to thank the DDA and our sponsors for the effective and close cooperation to achieve this.”
DDA Chief Flight Instructor and TRI, Tom van Hoorn: “This simulator fills a training-need that has existed in classic aviation for a long time. The fidelity of the simulator is amazing. It even includes a functional circuit breaker panel and rotating, fully controllable propellers in the visual system. The realism of the flying and of the systems makes this an incredible training tool. The simulator has over 70 failure scenario’s that can be selected, enabling a level of training that was not possible in the past.”
MPS’ DC-3 project leader, Ewout van Wijk: “The biggest challenge in a project like this is getting accurate and reliable reference data. To achieve this we have spared no effort, including in flight measurements with real DC-3 aircraft. The extremely positive feedback that we are getting from experienced DC-3 pilots, combined with the FTD 2 / FNPT II certification demonstrates that we succeeded.”
