At the same time, the ergonomic features of traditional instrumentation are maintained and the knobs and controls located in the same positions as mechanical instruments. The instrument layout is therefore identical to that of a Dash 8-300. The flight profiles are based on actual data from the Augsburg Airways flight data recorder and complementary flight tests performed by Alsim. The Alsim Dash 8-300 flight commands allow pilots to experience highly realistic as well as reliable flight sensations thanks to its electric control force feedback as well as entirely active flight commands. This highly complex and sophisticated system permits pilots to familiarise themselves with a variety of flight situations as well as emergency scenarios.
Pilots can therefore carry out all the checklists related to normal as well as emergency procedures.
The flight trainer is connected to a modem that allows quick problem solving and trouble shooting. Augsburg Airways employs 120 captains and co-pilots and operates a fleet of 16 Dash 8 aircraft, needs an annual training of 2000 hours. In the past all these training hours were carried out in full flight simulators. At the Royal International Air Tattoo Flying Scholarships for the Disabled Presentation Ceremony at RAF Cottesmore, a new award, The George Stewart Memorial Trophy, was presented for the first time. It is intended that the Trophy will be awarded each year to the scholar who, it is felt, has benefited the most from the experience of learning to fly during that year.