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Flight school to welcome state-of-the-art simulator amid plans to expand complex 

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A Sunshine Coast pilot academy is set to enhance its capabilities with a new high-tech flight simulator.

Flight Options, which is based at Sunshine Coast Airport, has announced the acquisition of a Mechtronix Ascent Airbus A320 FSTD (Flight Simulation Training Device).

It will arrive in December and is expected to be in service early next year.

Flight Options’ training complex currently supports a Level D Beechcraft King Air B200/BE350i simulator and, following the recent sale of its Cessna Citation Mustang FSD, the business will utilise its vacant bay to accommodate the new device.

Flight Options is also planning for the construction of two more bays to support the location of additional simulators that are under consideration.

Flight Options founder and managing director Steve Padgett said the new state-of-the-art simulator would enhance the company’s training capabilities.

An Airbus A320 fixed based simulator.

“This acquisition marks an exciting new chapter for Flight Options,” he said.

“By investing in additional simulators and expanding our training complex, we’re reinforcing our commitment to delivering exceptional pilot training that meets the highest standards.”

The new simulator will allow Flight Options to continue to meet the demand for specialised pilot training at its headquarters.

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Originally constructed as a result of a contractual agreement with the Singapore Flying College (a division of Singapore Airlines), the Flight Options complex is one of the largest privately-owned advanced simulation facilities in the Southern Hemisphere.

The company offers comprehensive training courses covering various equipment types, including the King Air, and serves a diverse client base spanning Australasia, South-East Asia and beyond.

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