Porter Airlines announced that it has completed the installation of FlightSafety International’s Embraer E195-E2 flight simulator at its Toronto hub. This is the first simulator of its kind in North America, which will support the airline’s pilot training as part of its order for up to 100 E2 aircraft.
“This is another step forward in our growth plans, as pilots will soon have the opportunity to begin their training ahead of our first E195-E2 flights later this year,” said Paul Moreira, executive vice president and chief operating officer of Porter Airlines.
“FlightSafety has been Porter’s pilot training partner since 2006, so we are pleased that they have completed construction of this simulator on time and to be able to continue this partnership as we grow.” Moreira concluded.
The simulator is located at FlightSafety International’s Toronto Learning Center, where more than 650 Porter pilots will receive training on the E195-E2 and its current fleet of 34 De Havilland Canada DHC-8-400s.
Pilots can experience all aspects of real-world flight, including full motion simulation and actual airport environments, in a controlled environment. Porter Airlines finalized an eight-year agreement with FlightSafety International last year to continue as the airline’s exclusive pilot training partner.
“We are thrilled to continue our long-standing partnership with Porter Airlines to train best-in-class aviators,” said Brad Thress, president and CEO of FlightSafety International. “Since 2006, FlightSafety has provided innovative and cost-effective training solutions to Porter crews. This proven track record is evidenced by Porter’s confidence in us to deliver E2 solutions for another eight years.”
Porter surprised in 2021 when it ordered 30 Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, with purchase rights for a further 50 aircraft, for $5.82 billion at list price, with all options exercised. At Farnborough 2022, the carrier committed for another 20 aircraft with a list value of $1.56 billion, bringing the airline’s orders with Embraer to a total of up to 100 E195-E2 aircraft, with 50 firm orders and 50 purchase rights.
Formal training on the E195-E2 simulator will begin during this second half of 2022, following certification recently completed by Transport Canada.
Porter Airlines will be the North American launch customer for Embraer’s new E2 family of aircraft. Porter intends to deploy the E195-E2s to popular business and leisure destinations across Canada, the United States, Mexico and the Caribbean, from Ottawa, Montreal, Halifax and Toronto Pearson International Airport.
The first aircraft made its maiden flight in August at Embraer’s plant in Brazil, with Porter scheduled for delivery and entry into service beginning in the second half of 2022.
