Nilai University marks another milestone in its growth journey, reinforcing its commitment to providing comprehensive aviation training for both local and international students with the launching of an advanced Flight Simulator Model: the Airbus A320 Fixed Base Flight and Engineering Training Device today, making Nilai University the first higher education institution to leverage from this advanced technology across Nilai, Negeri Sembilan. The latest addition to the cutting-edge facilities of the School of Aircraft Maintenance Engineering also aligns with the vision of the government to strengthen the expertise of students in the technical and vocational programme. This significant expansion reflects the growing demands, especially the increasing need for aircraft maintenance engineers.
Unveiled during the Grand Launching Ceremony, the A320 Fixed Base Flight and Engineering Training simulator is a clean-sheet design developed from hyper-realistic 3D Fused Deposition Modelling and Stereolithography laser-cutting technology. It combines industry-leading features of a flight simulator with immersive virtual reality with a 2-seated technology and a 220-degree highly immersive surrounding screen that simulates live weather and timing that the pilot is flying. This advanced breakthrough also features a CFM56 or IAE V2500 engine model of the Airbus A320 with a full suite of tactile cockpit panels that allows the pilot to interact with the aircraft switches and avionics just as they would in the aircraft.
The Vice-chancellor, Professor Dato’ Dr. Azhar Ismail in his welcome address highlighted that aviation is one of the most demanding yet rewarding fields. He encouraged students to leverage from the latest addition of training facility, nurturing confidence, competence, and sound decision-making skills in the full avionic suite, instrumentation, and navigation which are essential in managing unexpected scenario as well as contributing in advancing research in aircraft dynamics.
Not just enhancing the capabilities but also actively contributing to the development of aviation expertise both in Malaysia and globally, Dato’ Dr. Azhar also emphasises the importance of giving our students hands-on experiences of flight, helping them understand the physics behind different aircraft and how their design influences performance.
The flight simulator, funded by Aerotech Simulations, showcases the expertise of local manufacturing and is proudly derived from locally-sourced materials. Mr. Sazali Mohd Taib, Managing Director of Aerotech Simulations said that they are committed to building the skills and expertise needed to grow the aviation industry. He also added that the company is delighted to support the launch of this flight simulator which will enhance the curriculum by taking theoretical learning into practical, simulated application. Importantly, it will also be used by the university for STEM outreach, to encourage more potential engineers to pursue future careers in aerospace.
The launching of the A320 Fixed Base Flight and Engineering Training Device is not the pinnacle of our success, just yet, he noted. Soon, we are looking into bringing a higher level of fidelity and greater virtual training experience for our students through the addition of axis motion platforms. The complexity of the model will close the gaps between modelling outputs and real-world performance, making the training as seamless and realistic as possible.
The Flight Simulator was officially launched by B Tuan Arul Kumar A/L Jambunathan (ADUN Nilai cum EXCO Local Government Development, Housing & Transport, Professor Dato’ Dr. Azhar Ismail and En. Sazali Mohd Taib.
Nilai University offers a Diploma in Aircraft Maintenance Engineering as one of its flagship programmes accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA), the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM), and the Ministry of Higher Education. The School of Aircraft Maintenance Engineering houses state-of-the-art facilities; aircraft hangar, aircraft models, laboratories, and workshops. This Diploma incorporates the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) syllabus, preparing students for the EASA Part 66 Category B1 or B2 license examinations. As part of the course, students will undergo guaranteed industrial training in collaboration with the board of the university’s aviation partners. Nilai University upholds an inclusive opportunity to all students across diverse socio-economic backgrounds, offering scholarships to excellent local and international students.
For more information on the various programmes and scholarships, kindly visit www.nilai.edu.my.
