The Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) (Queensland Section) is proud to celebrate the first anniversary of the Aeromedical Training Academy in Bundaberg.
Located adjacent to the RFDS Bundaberg Base, the facility is revolutionising aviation training by housing the only Beechcraft King Air Pro-Line Fusion Full Flight Simulator (FFS) in Australia.
Since achieving Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) certification in October 2024, the simulator has become a premier training destination, significantly enhancing pilot proficiency in operating Beechcraft King Air B260, 350, 360 and 360Q aircraft.
In the first year, 46 RFDS pilots have completed 377 training sessions in the simulator and training rooms.
RFDS (Queensland Section) General Manager – Aviation Training and Standards Shane Lawrey said the Academy positions Bundaberg as a centre of excellence for aeromedical and aviation training.
“This particular simulator is the only one of its kind in the southern hemisphere,” Shane said.
The FFS is certified as a Level D simulator that equips pilots with the hands-on expertise needed to handle to be an RFDS pilot.
Beyond enhancing the organisation’s own capabilities, the Academy has quickly proven its value as a commercial enterprise, generating vital revenue for the organisation.
“This simulator also allows us to configure into four different models of aircraft, giving us greater flexibility in training courses and a bigger commercial market to tap into.”
So far, training agreements have been secured with the Queensland Police Service, Toll Aviation, Air Archipels and the RFDS (South Eastern Section) to train more than 30 external pilots.
“Our first year has been very busy,” Shane said.
“The industry is desperate for these courses, so we have the potential to grow significantly over the next few years.”
The purpose-built facility features four training classrooms, four briefing offices, two instructor offices, two simulator bays, a pilot’s lounge with kitchen, amenities, and onsite parking – providing the complete training environment for aviators.
The facility was made possible thanks to support from the Australian Government, QCoal Foundation, and generous contributions from corporate and philanthropic supporters, and the land, which was generously donated by Bundaberg Regional Council.
