Cochise College Aviation Director Belinda Burnett works with the CRJ700 simulator, which replicates real-world flight experiences for students preparing to work for regional airlines.
Cochise College aviation students now have access to advanced simulation training to prepare for larger, faster jets than are available on site.
The Aviation Department recently purchased and installed a CRJ700 simulator from Colorado company Paradigm Shift Solutions. Housed in its own room on the north side of the Douglas Campus hangar, the device simulates high-altitude weather; increased air traffic; communications; nearly real geographical landmarks, cities and airports; and even crew interaction.
In addition, it will facilitate the student transition from training to employability with the regional airlines with which the college partners. Jet Transition Training is the last course in a professional pilot student’s program. Most regional airlines carry 70-90 passengers per flight on planes that travel 400-500 miles per hour. That’s nearly three times as fast as any other aircraft or training simulation the college previously provided, and it was a challenge for pilots new to the industry.
Cochise flight instructors were trained on the new equipment a few weeks ago and soon will be prepared for their first students. Jet Transition Training also is available as a stand-alone course for individuals who already have a commercial pilot’s license. The $6,000 approximate cost for the training includes 20 hours in the left seat and 20 in the right.
The investment in the CRJ700 further enhances one of the college’s keystone programs, which in recent years has replaced aircraft with refurbished diesel models, created a simulation room featuring various models and student-pilot experiences, added a dispatcher program, and renovated its learning spaces.