Averett gets new flight simulator during aviation day

Averett University held an “Aviation Day” on Friday and unveiled its new full-motion flight simulator that allows students to practice flying skills without the danger and expense of being in a real airplane.

The Redbird FMX Full Motion Flight Simulator was acquired by the university to improve the training of students in the aviation program, since it is more advanced than the other two simulators the program has. It allows pilots to simulate multiple types of aircrafts and gives a level of realism unmatched by most simulators.

Piloting the simulator students are able to pause, repeat and analyze every maneuver in the Redbird since it is not a real plane.

“Last week I made a mistake on a procedure turn,” said Averett senior Tanmay Patel. “The instructor actually paused the simulator and told me what I was doing wrong. It is better to make a mistake in there than up there (in the sky).”

The flight simulator game has “crashed” 27 times since its arrival at Averett.

Phillip Morris pilot Bernie Morrell, an Averett alumnus, said the Redbird will help students professionally after they graduate and it is the best place to get real-time experience. He also credited Averett President Tiffany Franks with being extremely dedicated to the aviation program and moving it forward.

The presentation was made among many visiting Averett aviation alumni who were employed with major airlines, Federal Express, the Coast Guard and other aviation jobs all around the world. Franks also announced Averett would be creating the George C. Faulk Operation Center to bring additional training and education to the aviation program. It is named after the school’s former director of financial aid.

The simulator will also be available for community use for a charge.