TRU Simulation + Training, a Textron company and a long-standing leader in flight simulation and training solutions, announced a significant milestone with the successful delivery and official acceptance of the Bell 505 Flight Training Device (FTD) by the Royal Jordanian Air Force (RJAF). The newly delivered device represents a core component of the broader training and fleet modernization agreement between the RJAF and Bell Textron Inc., TRU’s sister company under the Textron umbrella. This achievement underscores the continued partnership between TRU, Bell, and the Jordanian armed forces as the country advances its aviation training capabilities.
The acquisition of the Bell 505 FTD accompanies the recent handover of ten Bell 505 helicopters to the Royal Jordanian Air Force. Together, these assets form a comprehensive training system designed to enhance pilot proficiency, provide structured progression from basic to advanced rotorcraft skills, and support the aviation objectives of the King Hussein Air College in Mafraq, Jordan. The integrated package includes not only the aircraft and the high-fidelity simulator, but also an extensive computer-based training (CBT) suite that expands the range of training modalities available to new and experienced pilots alike.
According to TRU Simulation + Training, the delivery of the FTD reflects a major step toward strengthening the RJAF’s flight training infrastructure. By incorporating state-of-the-art simulation and the latest aircraft technology, the program equips the next generation of Jordanian pilots with the tools they need to operate rotorcraft safely and effectively in a variety of operational environments.
Jerry Messaris, vice president and general manager of TRU Simulation, emphasized the importance of the device and the partnership behind its development. “The Bell 505 Flight Training Device provides the Royal Jordanian Air Force a highly advanced training solution that enhances pilot readiness through realistic simulation of flight procedures and emergency scenarios,” Messaris said. “We are honored to collaborate with Bell in delivering this advanced capability, reflecting our shared commitment to the global advancement of aviation training technology.” His remarks highlight not only the technological achievement but also the strategic value placed on international collaboration in aviation development.
At the heart of this initiative lies the Bell 505 Flight Training Device itself—a sophisticated simulator engineered to replicate the precise handling characteristics, cockpit environment, and mission profile of the current production model Bell 505 helicopter. Designed to meet the demanding expectations of military flight training, the FTD incorporates an array of features requested by the Royal Jordanian Air Force, ensuring that the device is tailored to their operational needs and instructional methodologies.
The simulator includes a meticulously detailed Bell 505 cockpit frame outfitted with two Garmin G1000H NXi primary flight display units, which provide pilots with modern avionics capabilities essential to today’s rotorcraft operations. The setup is further enhanced by a simulated electronic standby instrument module, a Garmin GMA 350Hc audio panel, and a simulated Technisonic TDFM-920 radio, all of which contribute to a fully representative training environment. Additionally, the device includes authentic aircraft seating, flight controls, and auxiliary panels, creating a realistic and ergonomically accurate cockpit layout that mirrors the physical sensations and visual cues pilots would encounter in the actual aircraft.
Beyond its physical hardware, the Bell 505 FTD integrates a suite of high-fidelity models governing aerodynamics, engine behavior, flight controls, and acoustic response. These models are developed to the highest standards of realism, allowing pilots to experience the aircraft’s true performance characteristics during both routine and emergency procedures. Such fidelity is essential for developing rotorcraft proficiency, particularly in complex maneuvers, system failures, and weather-affected operations where simulator training can mitigate real-world risk.
The training device supports operations in both visual meteorological conditions (VMC) and instrument meteorological conditions (IMC), ensuring that pilots can be trained for a broad spectrum of flight scenarios. This dual-environment capability is particularly valuable for military training programs, which require flexibility and realism across mission types and operational environments.
One of the most immersive features of the device is its direct projection surround visual system. This system envelops the pilot’s field of view in a high-resolution image that responds dynamically to aircraft orientation and movement. By providing full visual immersion, the simulator allows pilots to practice formation flying, low-level navigation, approach and landing procedures, terrain familiarization, and mission-based operations. The ability to conduct formation training in a simulator significantly enhances safety while reducing operational wear on actual aircraft.
The configuration of the Bell 505 FTD meets the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements for a Level 5 Flight Training Device under 14 CFR Part 60, ensuring that the device adheres to rigorous regulatory standards. Achieving this qualification level underlines the simulator’s fidelity and suitability for structured, creditable training programs. It also enables operators such as the RJAF to optimize their training pipeline, allowing certain maneuvers and procedures to be conducted in the simulator rather than in the aircraft, reducing cost and risk while maintaining training quality.
With the incorporation of the FTD, the Royal Jordanian Air Force strengthens its ability to deliver advanced pilot training within its own facilities. The King Hussein Air College—Jordan’s premier institution for aviation instruction—can now expand its curriculum to include enhanced simulation-based learning, improving both training efficiency and program capacity. Computer-based training modules included in the agreement further amplify this impact by enabling students to learn foundational concepts, systems, and procedures before transitioning into the simulator or aircraft.
This investment reflects Jordan’s long-standing commitment to modernizing its aviation capabilities and maintaining a highly trained aircrew. As operational requirements evolve and technology progresses, simulation devices like the Bell 505 FTD provide a cost-effective and adaptable means of keeping pace with current and future training demands. For TRU Simulation and Bell Textron, the delivery reinforces their position as trusted partners in global defense and civil aviation, supporting customers with comprehensive and forward-leaning training solutions.
The successful acceptance of the Bell 505 FTD marks not only a technological milestone, but also a symbol of the strong and growing relationship between the Royal Jordanian Air Force, Bell, and TRU Simulation + Training. By integrating real aircraft platforms with cutting-edge simulation and digital learning tools, the RJAF is positioned to cultivate highly skilled pilots capable of operating in diverse environments and complex missions. As global aviation continues to lean heavily on simulation for training innovation, partnerships such as this one demonstrate how modern militaries can harness these tools to advance capability, operational readiness, and flight safety.
Source Link:https://www.businesswire.com/
