L3Harris Technologies opens $100m pilot training centre

UK-based aerospace and defence technology innovator L3Harris Technologies has opened the new $100m London Training Center for commercial airline pilots.

Located near Gatwick Airport, the facility has been designed to meet the increasing airline demand for new pilots and employs a team of 350, addressing the global shortage of commercial pilots.

It also designs, develops and manufactures the company’s RealitySeven full flight simulator (FFS) and will further strengthen the UK’s position in the commercial aviation industry.

The training centre has already employed 15 international airlines training pilots at the site.

Additionally, it will enable the company to support its Airline Academy cadet training programmes, which deliver the next generation of commercial pilots for many of the international airlines.

Norbiton Secretary of State for Transport Baroness Vere said: “This training centre will boost the local economy, helping our aviation sector continue to cement its place as one of the world’s very best.

The London Training Center consists of RealitySeven FFS, Flat Panel Trainers, classrooms and briefing rooms, and high-fidelity Flight Training Devices.

The production facility has a combined volume of more than 150,000ft², which is capable of manufacturing more than 30 FFS a year.

L3Harris Technologies Commercial Aviation Solutions president Alan Crawford said: “Our investment in this facility reflects our confidence in growth opportunities in the UK and the aviation industry, illustrated clearly by the demand for new airline pilots across the world.”

During the official opening, the Prince of Wales met young talent who are set to start on the Prince’s Trust Flying Scholarship, which was created by L3Harris as part of the RAF100 legacy.

Launched earlier this year, the scholarship has the potential to support three young people each year for the next ten years.