ATP, United Aviate Academy choose Frasca

ATP announced March 14 that it would expand its fleet of simulators with the purchase 20 of Frasca’s AATDs to “introduce students to foundational skills in a safe and controlled environment. This airline-oriented approach increases proficiency and maximizes the time spent learning in the aircraft.”

The ATP purchase was announced soon after another high-profile acquisition of Frasca training devices by the United Aviate Academy, which officially opened its doors to students in January with the goal of training at least 5,000 pilots by 2030. United will add seven Frasca flight simulators to its fleet.

“We’re investing in flight education as we train the next generation of United Airlines pilots, who are the future of our airline,” Bryan Quigley, senior vice president for flight operations for United Airlines, said in a press release. “These student pilots are receiving world-class flight training at United Aviate Academy and I’m looking forward to the day when they join our current United pilots on the flight deck.”

Frasca, which was acquired by Flight Safety International in January, has been in the business of designing and manufacturing flight simulators and other training devices for more than 60 years. Frasca’s founder, Rudy Frasca, was a flight instructor for the U.S. Navy and built his first flight simulator in his family’s garage.

According to press releases, both professional pilot training schools will use simulators featuring 220 degrees of wraparound visuals and Garmin G1000 avionics. United Aviate Academy’s simulated flight deck will emulate a Cirrus SR20 or Piper Seminole, while ATP’s setups will feature an “accurate physical representation” of the flight deck of a Piper Archer or Cessna 172 Skyhawk.

“Frasca and ATP have been partners for many years. These 20 new Frasca FTD’s for the C172 and Archer will support ATP’s training programs with the most technically advanced and realistic flight simulation available. This will ensure a maximum transfer of learning and contribute to increased safety,” stated Frasca President John Frasca in ATP’s press release.