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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider PAF opens advanced flight simulator facility in Cebu

PAF opens advanced flight simulator facility in Cebu

Published Dec 10, 2025 03:41 pm
Philippine Air Force (PAF) officers test the Bell 412EP simulator during the blessing ceremony of the two-in-one Full Motion Flight Simulator and its facility on December 10, 2025 at the Brigadier General Benito N. Ebuen Air Base in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu on Dec. 10, 2025. (PHoto: PAF)
Philippine Air Force (PAF) officers test the Bell 412EP simulator during the blessing ceremony of the two-in-one Full Motion Flight Simulator and its facility on December 10, 2025 at the Brigadier General Benito N. Ebuen Air Base in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu on Dec. 10, 2025. (PHoto: PAF)
The Philippine Air Force (PAF) brought its training system a step closer to international standards with the opening of its first two-in-one Full Motion Flight Simulator (FMFS) and dedicated training facility at Brigadier General Benito N. Ebuen Air Base in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu on Wednesday, Dec. 10.
The system, supplied by SIMULTEC SRL of Romania, features interchangeable cockpits for the S-70i Black Hawk and Bell 412EP, allowing pilots to shift aircraft platforms without needing separate simulators.
Delivered under Horizon 1 of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) modernization program, the simulator was installed in August and passed acceptance tests on Nov. 30.
Lt. Gen Arthur M. Cordura, PAF commanding general, said that while the new simulator adds capacity to train more Black Hawk and Bell 412 pilots, its greater value lies in reducing the Air Force’s dependence on live aircraft for basic and emergency-procedure training.
He explained that this has been a long-standing challenge for the PAF as the organization expands its helicopter fleet.
He said the FMFS provides high-fidelity training for complex procedures, including emergency scenarios that are difficult or risky to replicate in flight.
By shifting these drills to a controlled environment, Cordura said the PAF expects to cut fuel consumption, lessen wear on aircraft, and improve overall flight safety.
Further, the PAF chief stressed that the simulator will help the Air Force keep up with rising training requirements as more helicopters enter the service.
He emphasized that simulator-based instruction strengthens pilot proficiency and ensures units remain mission-ready even during aircraft downtime.
“As the PAF pushes forward with its modernization efforts, the FMFS stands as a major step toward more advanced, efficient, and globally aligned training systems for PAF airmen,” PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Christina Basco added.
The facility forms part of the PAF’s push to modernize its training infrastructure, Basco said.
She said this aligns with practices adopted by more advanced air forces and supports the long-term goal of PAF to develop more capable and adaptable airmen.
The ceremony was attended by Maj. Gen. Ramil G. Oloroso, commander of the Air Mobility Command; and Brig. Gen. Moises L. Micor, wing commander of the 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing.

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PAF Air Force flight simulator modernization program AFP military
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