PR: Redbird, Instituto Arruda Botelho Announce >$1million Flight Training Device Deal

Lakeland, Florida, March 31, 2012: Redbird Flight Simulations, Inc., and the Instituto Arruda Botelho (IAB) announced today what is probably the largest non-aircraft deal at Sun 'n Fun, a million-dollar+ sale of dedicated and flexible flight training devices (simulators), including specifically-configured units for the Cessna Caravan, King Air C90, and Piper Matrix, plus a total of three X-Wind trainers, two FMX units, and seven total TD2 table-mounted FTDs; all will be equipped with the Parrot autonomous ATC feature, to teach and reinforce proper ATC English.




As these units come on line at their new home at the BROA facility in Brazil, they will be the core of the largest General Aviation flight training facility in the Americas, outside the United States. “This is a very important addition to our facility in Itirapina,” said Fernando de Arruda Botelho, head of the IAB and himself a pilot and aircraft collector, restorer, and proponent of Brazilian aviation history. “We really like the idea that the Redbird simulators are geared beyond merely meeting the minimum FTD requirements, and help teach how to actually fly the airplane, under VFR as well as IFR conditions. Much of this equipment will be operational by the time of our BROA Fly-In [in late June, near São Paulo, Brazil], and I expect we will build on the convenience of our school and add to enthusiasm for training, for pilots from Europe and both Americas.”

Jerry Gregoire, Owner of Redbird Flight Simulations, said, “We are pleased to have this opportunity to expand into the fast-growing Brazilian and Latin American market, and we are happy to be part of this great modern facility. The Botelho name and reputation are well-respected in Brazil, and in aviation internationally; and Fernando Botelho's support and involvement in this project will go a long way to ensuring its long-term success.”

Ana Fontes, Brazil-US liason for Botelho and a facilitator for aviation companies in both nations, added, "This commitment illustrates the tremendous potential Brazil sees in aviation expansion. I hope the industry seizes this opportunity to utilize this facility, and to explore (and exhibit in) the greatest GA show in Brazil , the 12th BROA Fly-In, this June 22-24."

For information on the BROA Fly-In, for both attendees and exhibitors,
contact Ana Fontes: anafontes@anafontes.com