Cambridge Airport-based Pilot Training College (PTC) has confirmed it has received CAA approval on its Boeing 737 simulator. Approval of the remaining professional pilot training courses is expected shortly.

The recent installation of the Boeing 737 NGW simulator in hangar one took eight weeks to complete. Constructed from an actual 737 cockpit, the simulator is fitted with a CFM-56-7B26 Engine Simulation Model and certified to a FNPTII-MCC level. With high definition visuals and the latest image generation software, the new generation simulator will enhance the learning experience for student pilots. The SIM is fitted with TCAS-27.0, Weather Radar, EGPWS, DEU, Dual FMC, Dual GPS, plus many pre-programmed system faults and failures for training. The simulator represents a substantial investment for Pilot Training College in the United Kingdom bringing another level of training experience to the airport. Pilot Training College will also base a fleet of Piper Seminole aircraft at the airport that will enable training up to Multi-engine Instrument Rating Standard and it expects to receive delivery of a FNPTII procedural trainer which it will use to train to MEIR standard.

The Boeing 737 simulator at Cambridge will be used to train to Multi-Crew Co-operation and Jet Orientation standard which is necessary in helping students transition to larger multi-crew turboprop and jet aircraft. The training period for the Multi-Crew Cooperation Course is approximately eight days. Pilot Training College expects to train up to 300 pilots next year; a significant proportion of which will be streamed through the Cambridge Training Centre. PTC operates other Training Centres in Ireland at Waterford and Dublin, and in Florida, USA and holds contracts with leading airlines from around the world such as Flybe, Nasair, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines and Air Astana.