Airways simulator to boost Cook Islands ATC training

Air traffic control trainees in the Cook Islands will soon start training in a real world environment, using a new operational desktop version of the Airways Total Control simulator purchased by Cook Islands Airport Authority.

General Manager Airways Global Services, Russell Hulstrom, says that the desktop version of the popular Total Control simulator training tool provides an ideal training solution in situations where controllers are in sole charge positions.

“The beauty of this simulator is that it’s designed for use in regular refresher training of controllers at smaller airports such as in the Cook Islands, where solo controllers must be at their post. Our ‘off-the-shelf’ model is straightforward for the client to set up in their own workspace, and to undertake real-world training in a synthetic environment,” Mr Hulstrom says.

This is the first purchase of the new-to-market Total Control Performance simulator in the Asia Pacific region. Total Control offers unparalleled realism and graphic fidelity supported by a 3D engine, with sophisticated, real-world simulation. The simulator allows for training of higher traffic volumes and risk scenarios than would usually be experienced at the airport.

The solution was developed by Airways, supported by Dunedin-based 3D graphics experts Animation Research, and features a user-friendly interface, quality graphics, and easily adaptable exercises that can be edited by the ANSP to suit their existing traffic and potential scenarios.

Manamauri Havi is an air traffic controller who recently graduated from training with Airways. He says he’s excited he’ll soon be using his experience on the Total Control simulator in his role at home in the Cook Islands.

“The layout, graphics and programming of the simulator are second to none, and training on it really gives me the feeling of being inside an actual tower – with the benefit of not having to walk up all those steps!” he says.

The Total Control Performance simulator will be showcased at the ATM World Congress in Madrid in March, where delegates can experience the unparalleled realism and graphic fidelity of training with Total Control.