Work package 5 | Smart Training
Challenge:
Properly training technical personnel is complex and requires a lot of time and attention. To ensure that personnel is qualified and compliant on time, innovative ways are continually sought to offer high-quality training in the most effective manner. One of the constant challenges is to have the best learning resources available at the right time, at the lowest possible cost, and with the smallest possible environmental impact.
Objective of Work Package 5:
Work Package 5 focuses on a specific training goal, namely the training for engine run up professionals.
Performing an operational test on engines is often the last link in a maintenance cycle. The task of engine testers is to determine whether the maintenance of aircraft engines and/or related systems has been properly performed. For this, an operational test is conducted where the aircraft engine or engines need to be started and sometimes tested at high power “on wing.”
The goal of Work Package 5 is to improve the training of employees who are responsible for this, by applying groundbreaking new technologies and an innovative curriculum (training plan).
Why is this important?
This topic was chosen because the focus on sustainable business with the smallest possible “carbon footprint” is becoming increasingly important. Additionally, the available training resources, full flight Symulator for KLM and real aircraft for JetSupport are scarce and relatively expensive. Therefore, the exposure of participants to these training resources has been reduced to the lowest acceptable level, allowing engine run up professionals to spend less time with engines “ON” while performing their tasks than strictly necessary for conducting the relevant tests.
What are the benefits?
The solution realised within this work package makes it possible to master the testing of aircraft engines at a fraction of the current costs. The chosen solution addresses the challenges in the following ways: The training resources can be deployed more flexible at different locations. The availability of training resources allows for more frequent and independent practice. The adapted curriculum and the used resource (VR) result in a significant CO2 reduction. A cost saving is realised in the training. This is achieved in two aspects: reduction in the use of current training resources, the full flight simulator (KLM) and operational aircraft (JetSupport), and additionally in operations, through more efficient test sessions after maintenance. By using innovative technology within the training offer, we enhance our attractiveness as a training organisation for current and future employees.
In short:
Not tied to a fixed location
“On-demand” availability
Lower “carbon footprint”
Reduction in costs, both training and operational
Attractive employer
Partners and Collaboration:
This work package is executed in collaboration with various key players from the aviation sector, such as JetSupport, KLM, the Netherlands Aerospace Centre (NLR), and the Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences (HvA). By combining these forces, we can ensure that the innovations are widely applicable and maintain our internationally leading position in high-quality Part 145/147 training.
Timeline and Results:
The project has been ongoing since the end of 2022 and ends in November 2025. In the past period, a thorough analysis of the training needs has been conducted, considering the innovative nature of Bright Sky, laying the foundation for a new curriculum. Research has also been conducted on human factors, specifically for these trainings. Development tools have been created to efficiently build engine run up training in VR. Research has been conducted on the suitability of various VR devices available on the market, leading to the selection of the Meta Quest 3. In 2024, the focus was primarily on building a total of 4 cockpit models and implementing training scenarios in these models. The remaining period of this project will be used, among other things, for research on the use of VR in relation to training transfer, the value of haptic resources for transfer, and acceptance of new resources within the specific curriculum. Additionally, complete VR training for at least two aircraft types will be realised and integrated into the curriculum.
Impact on the future of aircraft maintenance training:
Successful implementation of this training method can significantly influence the future use of VR combined with haptics in training. Particularly in skill training where the cost of failure is very high and safety aspects are evident.
