Redbird dials up simulation fidelity

The updates include a redesigned Garmin G1000 NXi software emulation, a new line of interchangeable instrument panels—including the upcoming E001 Enhanced Aircraft Panel, scheduled for release in 2027—and the first phase of a broader redesign of Redbird's simulator platform. Together, these changes will allow flight schools to swap aircraft configurations in minutes while bringing simulator fidelity closer to today's training aircraft.

Since introducing its interchangeable cockpit concept in 2007, Redbird has enabled flight schools to use a single simulator for multiple aircraft configurations. Rather than replicate one manufacturer's avionics, the company developed interchangeable instrument panels and software that could support different aircraft with relatively quick hardware changes.

Charlie Gregoire, Redbird's CEO, said that approach made simulator training more accessible to flight schools, but customer expectations have evolved as glass cockpits have become more commonplace. "When we started Redbird, it was pretty unheard of for a device like this to be employed at the private pilot level," Gregoire said. "Today's students expect the simulator to look and behave like the airplane they're flying."

One result is a redesigned Garmin G1000 NXi software emulation scheduled for release on August 17. The update adds faster graphics and several Garmin NXi features, including Synthetic Vision Technology and SafeTaxi airport diagrams.

Josh Harnagel, Redbird's chief operating officer, said developing the new emulation required rebuilding much of the avionics architecture rather than simply updating the display. "We've had a longstanding request for NXi emulation," Harnagel said. "To build it, we developed the AHRS [Attitude and Heading Reference System], air data computer, autopilot, moving map, GPS and communications as one integrated system." Harnagel said it also provides the foundation for future avionics packages, including Garmin GTN and Avidyne systems.

The software is accompanied by a new family of enhanced aircraft panels, beginning with the E001, which is expected in early 2027. Unlike earlier panels that used generic bezels and controls, the new design places displays beneath an acrylic overlay to more closely resemble the avionics installed in specific aircraft. Despite the added realism, Gregoire said technicians can still swap panels in less than two minutes. The same philosophy can also be applied to flight controls. "If you're training in a Bonanza, I love having the throttle quadrant and everything look authentic," Gregoire said. "Otherwise it's always kind of a workaround and never quite as realistic as it can be." Future hardware will include aircraft-specific throttle quadrants and a redesigned side yoke modeled after those found in the Cirrus SR20 and SR22.

Gregoire said the new NXi software is compatible with existing Redbird G1000 panels, allowing many current customers to upgrade without replacing their panel hardware. Customers with software service agreements will receive the update as part of their existing coverage. Redbird also plans retrofit paths for many existing FMX and MCX simulators as part of what Gregoire described as the company's "zero-obsolescence" philosophy, allowing schools to adopt new technology without replacing entire training devices.

Redbird will demonstrate the G1000 NXi software E001 panel prototype and redesigned flight controls during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh in Wisconsin.