The aviation program at Rocky Mountain College, in Billings, Mont., has recently purchased a Canadair Regional Jet (CRJ) Flight Management System (FMS) desktop simulator for use in a course on advanced cockpits.
The system is manufactured by Simulator Systems International/Wycat and is the same one used by 20 different airlines to train pilots in the details of glass cockpit operations. The system includes the same hardware as found in CRJ aircraft, including the FMS keypad and the autopilot mode control panel.
Students in the course also have hands-on training with Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning Systems, Traffic Collision Avoidance Systems, and airborne color weather radar.
Rocky Mountain College offers Bachelor of Science degrees in Aeronautical Science and Aviation Management. Student pilots fly the Piper Archer III, Beech Bonanza, and Beech Baron, all equipped with Garmin 430 radio/navigation systems.
“While we recognize the importance of teaching basic stick and rudder skills, future employers expect our graduates to possess the skills necessary to fly technically advanced aircraft,” said Dan Hargrove, director of aviation. “We’re excited to teach our students a broad range of skills that will advance their careers.”