SIMNET Academy has launched a new series of online self-guided simulation-based training courses developed in collaboration with, and certified by, the ArduPilot Project.
These courses are designed in collaboration with lead ArduPilot developers to equip pilots with the skills necessary to handle complex failure scenarios in the field, setting a new standard in Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) training.
The courses aim to address the need for proper training in the rapidly evolving landscape of drones and UAS. As UAS operations become more advanced, including Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) flights with larger and more complex aircraft, national aviation authorities are increasingly integrating performance-based training aided by simulation into the certification process.
Simulation-based training complements physical flight training by preparing pilots for edge-case scenarios and specific mission rehearsals that would otherwise be impractical, thereby expanding the pilot’s experience while reducing operational risks and costs.
Three courses are now available for purchase. The first two focus on the fundamentals of manual and autonomous operation of ArduCopter UAS using the popular Mission Planner ground control station software.
The newest course in the series, titled “ArduCopter Failsafes and Failure Recovery Methods” offers comprehensive training on handling unexpected failures during multirotor autonomous missions using ArduCopter’s built-in failsafe mechanisms. Future courses will focus on operation of fixed-wing VTOL aircraft, including managing failure emergency scenarios.
In the ArduCopter Failsafes and Failure Recovery Methods course you will learn best practices through hands-on exercises, progressing from individual failure and recovery modes to complex scenarios that demand situational awareness and quick decision-making.
Your emergency response competency is automatically graded, ensuring preparedness by combining proper failsafe configuration with real-time pilot control. Upon completion, you will receive an official certificate from SIMNET and the ArduPilot project, providing credentials for your competency in this area.
Course highlights of this new course include:
- Web-based accessibility: The cloud-based format requires no software installation and runs on a wide range of devices, allowing you to access the course at your own pace.
- Comprehensive failsafe coverage: Learn how to handle low battery, RC, GCS, GPS, and FVP loss scenarios.
- Diverse recovery methods: Master Return to Launch (RTL), Terrain-following RTL, Smart RTL, parachute deployment, and various manual recovery techniques.
- Realistic worldwide simulation scenarios: Engage in high-fidelity digital twin simulations of drones and real-life geographical locations, complete with triggered emergency situations to test your skills.
- Modular and customizable: The course is designed to optionally integrate and customize into existing drone training programs with local aviation regulations, offering flexibility to meet specific organizational needs.
For organizations interested in reseller agreements or offering the course through their training institutions, visit the SIMNET website.
The full course catalog can be found at https://www.simnet.aero/academy, where customers can start training within minutes.