aerobd.news : EDIC Horizon, the Middle East’s leading flight training organization, has announced plans to upgrade its existing fleet of Bell 206 helicopters with new single-engine glass cockpits. The announcement was made at the International Defence Exhibition & Conference (IDEX 2019). The academy’s decision to invest in an upgrade is driven by the rising demand from aspiring pilots to be trained on helicopters featuring advanced technology.

The upgraded aircraft feature integrated advanced technology cockpit, FADEC controlled engines and other advanced technologies that will better equip pilots to transition to any modern aircraft. The new system provides unparalleled crew situational awareness and dramatically reduces pilot workload, which results in enhanced safety and mission capabilities. The average age of the Bell 206s under replacement is 35 years, and they are primarily used for basic flight training, IR and Type training. Hareb Thani Al Dhaheri, CEO, EDIC Horizon, stated, “By upgrading our current fleet with single-engine glass cockpits, we are ensuring that our students are prepared for the future. The upgraded fleet enables us to meet the latest technology needs of aspiring pilots, while giving us a competitive edge in the market. We are confident that this investment will go a long way in helping our pilots stay ahead of the curve.”

EDIC Horizon is a subsidiary of Emirates Defense Industries Company (EDIC). EDIC, which is the strategic partner of IDEX 2019, is showcasing the latest in defense manufacturing, services, and technology innovation through its group companies that include AMMROC, Barij Munitions, Barij Dynamics, EDIC Caracal, EDIC Bayanat, EDIC Horizon, EDIC MRO Land, EDIC Precision Industries, EDIC Technical Services, GAL, NIMR, Thales Advanced, and Abu Dhabi Ship Building (ADSB).