Colorado Highland Helicopters is First US Customer for VRM Switzerland

Colorado Highland Helicopters, Durango, is the first US helicopter operator to order a VRM H125 VR virtual reality pilot training solution, enabling American rotorcraft pilots to improve their competencies on an EASA-qualified training device.

VRM is seeking US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) qualification. In April, the first VR flight training device in a Robinson R22 configuration was successfully qualified with EASA.

“A simulator of this quality allows for additional practice of basic maneuvers, but additionally allows emergency procedure recognition and recovery to a level that is not prudent or possible in an actual aircraft. The unique capability of this machine, however, is the ability to track and quantify the pilot’s visual response and reference. This allows new insight into why maneuvers are successful or unsuccessful and empirical data to compare,” said Brandon Laird, Owner and Chief Pilot of Colorado Highland Helicopters (CHH).

VRM Switzerland’s system creates a full-body immersion, giving the pilot the feeling of sitting in a real helicopter. The highly dynamic motion platform allows the pilot to precisely feel the finest changes in attitude and touchdown on the ground. A numerical simulation enables the realistic representation of the flight behavior.

The cockpit is modeled on the real helicopter. The pilot's movements are displayed in the VR environment, enabling operation of the cockpit including haptic perception. In addition, the software is optimized for VR glasses, so the pilot has the same visual representation as in the real helicopter.

A unique built-in flight assistance system supports the flight instructor in guiding student pilots through basic maneuvers, enabling PPL training. A wide range of training options is covered, from commercial pilot training to special operations such as external sling load operation. Various emergency procedures, such as autorotations with landing and tail rotor failure, can be practiced safely. The high-resolution 360° 3D visual system enables demanding mission training to improve competencies even for highly experienced pilots.

“I believe that in the years following the debut of this machine in the industry, helicopter flight training without a product of the type will not be feasible,” Laird stated.

He noted: “CHH has been in contact with VRM Switzerland throughout the development of their product.” At Heli-Expo in 2019, “I had the opportunity to demo the machine and found it to be profoundly unique. The fidelity of the VR interface and the response of the machine allow for immersion and realism that is unparalleled.”

“Since that time, VRM has shown interest in the way CHH operates as an unconventional flight school and the instruction we provide at high altitude in mountainous terrain. We more closely model their existing partners, Mountain Flyers and Air Zermatt, than our US counterparts.”