Safety First: H125 virtual reality simulator deployed in Nepal

With its high mountains, complex terrain, and changing weather conditions, Nepal presents a particularly demanding and risky operational context for helicopters. The region's accident rate is elevated given the challenging operational conditions. The Nepalese environment requires an exceptional level of expertise and decision-making from the pilots of the 33 Airbus helicopters in operation there, including 30 H125s.

The Safety First in the Himalayas roadshow was launched to provide a concrete response to these operating challenges. This unique initiative kicked off on 24 and 25 February with a conference bringing together aviation safety authorities (European Union Aviation Safety Agency, Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal and civil aviation authorities from neighbouring countries), local operators, Airbus Helicopters safety experts, Loft Dynamics representatives, and international experts. 

The roadshow, which ran until March 25th, highlights the partners' deep commitment to enhancing flight safety in the region through training courses. All 13 Nepalese H125 operators were invited to register their pilots. Around thirty pilots benefitted from a full four-hour session on the virtual reality H125 simulator.

The use of the Loft Dynamics H125 simulator, recognised for its hyper-realism and agile deployment, is a major asset. Its ability to reproduce the flight environment and emergency situations with astonishing fidelity allows for intensive training, without risk.

Each pilot's training programme was divided into two parts: two hours dedicated to reviewing emergency procedures under the supervision of an Airbus instructor; and two hours focused on mountain flying and decision-making, delivered by recognised international experts specialising in high-altitude flight.

The use of the Loft Dynamics H125 simulator for this training in Nepal represents a significant commitment for Airbus and its partners in terms of logistics, experts, and time. It’s tangible proof that safety is the priority for all stakeholders in the sector. The motto "Safety First!" is at the heart of this approach. Based on this experience, the partners are already planning to replicate the event in other regions of the world facing similar operational challenges.