- The milestone marks a brand-new heavy-lift aircraft development for entrol, highlighting its specialized capability for high-end tailored engineering.
- The device is based on the Bell 214ST FTD Level 7 configuration, featuring an advanced enwall LED visual system and Unreal Engine IG.
- Equipped with Mixed Reality goggles and a specific elevated helipads database for tactical fire-fighting and cargo mission training.
Madrid, July 21, 2026
entrol, the manufacturer of EASA and FAA certified FNPT, FTD, and FFS flight simulators, announces a new milestone in its global expansion: the development of its first Bell 214ST simulator, to be operated by McDermott Aviation in Australia. The contract, initiated with the first milestone payment in June 2026, represents a major engineering breakthrough in heavy-lift helicopter simulation, with the installation scheduled for the second quarter of 2028.
The simulator, based on the iconic Bell 214ST helicopter, stands out for its unique, highly customized cockpit configuration. Since there are very few operating units of this heavy-lift single-engine aircraft left globally, entrol has approached this project as a bespoke development. This milestone positions entrol as an agile technology partner capable of custom-building flight training devices (FTDs) tailored perfectly to the artisan requirements of specialized operators.
Advanced mission simulation for fire-fighting and cargo training
The configuration delivered to McDermott Aviation goes beyond standard flight training. By incorporating Mixed Reality (MR) goggles, the simulator enables highly immersive training for complex operations—allowing pilots to interact naturally with the physical cockpit controls while being fully immersed in a high-fidelity virtual environment.
For aerial firefighting and cargo training, entrol has developed a dedicated Mission Scenarios Package powered by Unreal Engine IG. The database features 5 specific elevated helipads, as well as an additional option of 10 specific airports and heliports. This allows crews to practice water drops, heavy lifting, and approaches in real-world tactical environments, recognizing terrain and operational obstacles with unprecedented precision.
“As we progress the McDermott 214ST program, our focus extends beyond the aircraft itself. We’re building a complete support ecosystem that includes training, engineering, maintenance and operational capability for current and future operators,” states John McDermott, president at McDermott Aviation. “The addition of the Entrol simulator is an important part of that commitment. It will provide a highly realistic training environment that supports pilot familiarisation, recurrent training and operational readiness, while reflecting the modern avionics and systems being incorporated into the next generation of the McDermott 214ST platform.”
Having spent decades operating and maintaining these aircraft in some of the world’s most demanding environments, McDermott understands the importance of investing in the tools and technology that support safe and effective operations. “Our goal is to provide operators with not only a proven heavy-lift helicopter platform, but also the training and support infrastructure required to maximise capability, safety and long-term operational success,” John McDermott adds.
Bell 214ST FTD Level 7 technical specifications
The device features an advanced enwall LED visual system, ensuring total immersion during all flight phases. Additional technical specifications include:
- Advanced flight training capabilities: simulator fully optimized for high-level firefighting and heavy-lift cargo operations.
- Flight dynamics and realism: integrated cockpit vibration system to replicate the precise tactile sensations of the Bell 214ST helicopter.
- Data analysis and debriefing: advanced debriefing station alongside an iPad with remote IOS for in-depth post-mission reviews, optimizing the qualitative learning of the pilot.
With this project, entrol reaffirms its commitment to the Asia-Pacific market and its ability to deliver customized, bespoke solutions that meet the real-world needs of special mission operators worldwide.
