NVG operations require a specific adaptation to visual perception, environmental scanning, and reference interpretation during night flight. At entrol, our focus is to recreate these operational challenges as realistically as possible through advanced NVIS simulation technologies.

Flying with limited visual perception

Operating with NVGs completely changes the way pilots perceive their environment. Unlike natural vision, NVGs amplify visible light and part of the infrared spectrum, completely altering the pilot’s visual perception

The complexity of NVG operations is defined by several critical visual limitations:

• Reduced Field of View (FOV): while human vision naturally provides a wide panoramic perception, NVGs typically reduce the pilot’s field of view to approximately 40 degrees, creating a “tunnel vision” effect.
• Green effect and altered visual perception: traditional NVGs generate a monochromatic green image that changes how pilots perceive terrain, obstacles, and light sources. Artificial lights generate halo effects, shadows become deeper, and surfaces such as water may appear completely black under low ambient lighting conditions.
  
  

The need for specific NVG training

Because NVGs significantly alter visual perception, pilots require specific training before conducting real night operations.

Part of this training focuses on adapting to the weight and ergonomics of the goggles, as well as learning the so-called instrument scan, a technique that allows pilots to monitor cockpit instruments using peripheral vision outside the NVGs.

At entrol, we consider these operational habits a fundamental part of realistic NVG flight training, as they play a key role during complex night operations.

In addition, understanding how factors such as moon phases, clouds, rain, snow, or artificial lights affect night vision is essential for safe operations.

Night operations: high-risk, high-complexity environments

NVG operations are commonly performed in high-complexity helicopter operations such as SAR, HEMS, offshore operations, law enforcement missions, or tactical deployments, where crews must operate with minimal visual references and constantly changing environments.

These helicopter operations may take place over open sea, mountainous terrain, confined areas, or environments without artificial lighting, where factors such as weather conditions, rain, snow, fog, or changing lighting conditions directly affect visual perception.

For this reason, preparation and training in realistic scenarios are essential for safe night operations.

Why simulation is essential for NVG training

Simulation has become one of the most effective tools for NVG flight training, helping operators complement FAA and EASA night operation training requirements while recreating conditions that are difficult, expensive, or unsafe to reproduce during real flights.

Training beyond the limitations of real flight

Simulation allows NVG operations to be trained in a more flexible, safe, and efficient way.

• On-demand recreation of different night and environmental conditions
• Safe training for emergencies and high-risk operational scenarios
• Reduced operational costs and increased training availability
  

Progressive learning: from adaptation to mission readiness

NVG training programs aligned with FAA and EASA operational standards must follow a progressive process

Pilots first learn how to operate with a reduced field of view, properly adjust the NVGs, and use techniques such as the instrument scan. Training then evolves into advanced scenarios such as SAR, offshore, HEMS, or tactical missions, recreating visual conditions such as fog, rain, halo lights, or different lighting environments.

This approach helps crews prepare for the visual and operational complexity of real night flight scenarios.

Entrol’s NVIS technology

At entrol, our NVIS solutions are designed to recreate realistic night environments by combining dedicated NVIS databases, advanced visual technologies, and real GEN III NVG goggles.

The goal is to allow crews to train under the same visual limitations, operational references, and flight conditions they will encounter during real SAR, HEMS, offshore, or deployment operations.

High-fidelity mission-oriented NVIS environments

entrol’s NVIS databases are specifically developed to recreate complex night flight environments with a high level of visual and operational realism.

Scenarios include advanced effects such as:

• Halo lights in cities, runways, and helipads
• Rain, snow, and fog
• Water and surface reflectivity
• Lighting variations depending on moon phases and time of day
• Dynamic shadows and unlit areas
• IR and environmental effects specific to night operations
  

The system also reproduces characteristic effects of real NVGs, such as light halo effects, the behavior of dark surfaces without ambient illumination, vegetation reflectivity caused by chlorophyll interaction, or increased visibility under certain fog conditions.

Envision and advanced Image Generator technology

To enhance visual realism during NVG training, entrol integrates its Envision visual system together with advanced Image Generator technology based on Unreal Engine 5.

These systems allow the replication of multiple NVG-specific visual effects and mission-oriented night environments, including halo lights, fog conditions, rain effects, water reflectivity, and different ambient illumination conditions.

Combined with dedicated NVIS databases and real GEN III goggles, these technologies help recreate realistic night flight simulation scenarios for SAR, HEMS, offshore, or deployment operations.

Advanced NVG simulation in LED environments

Unlike traditional projection systems, LED technology offers higher resolution, contrast, and visual quality during night operations.

However, integrating real NVG training into LED environments represents a technological challenge, since current LED displays do not emit infrared light natively.

To overcome this limitation, entrol has developed a specific system capable of dynamically recreating NVG visual effects within the pilot’s field of view. Thanks to head tracking integration, the system generates a visual area synchronized with the pilot’s head movements, realistically reproducing the characteristic effects of night vision while the peripheral environment remains darkened.

This solution makes it possible to maintain the visual advantages of LED systems while replicating the operational behavior of real NVGs.

• Both simulators feature cutting-edge enwall led visual systems and the ENVISION mission engine. strengthening its Law Enforcement and Search and Rescue (SAR) programs with FTD Level 5 and 6 technology.
  
  

Madrid, May 6, 2026

entrol, the manufacturer of EASA and FAA certified FNPT, FTD, and FFS flight simulators, continues to expand its presence in Australia following the simultaneous sale of two advanced mission simulators to Toll Aviation, a premier operator in the region. This double-unit agreement includes a Bell 429 FTD Level 6 and an AW139 FTD Level 5, both equipped with the manufacturer’s latest technological innovations.

Specialized law enforcement training: the Bell 429 FTD Level 6

The Bell 429 FTD Level 6 simulator has been specifically configured to meet the rigorous demands of Law Enforcement missions. The high-fidelity cockpit features real Garmin GTN 750 equipment and a state-of-the-art E2M control loading system.

To ensure maximum skill transfer for police operations, the device integrates the ENVISION mission package. This includes a high-detail database of airports, specific 3D objects, and dedicated mission areas. Additional tactical features include a vibration system, a debriefing station, Forward Looking Infrared Camera based on FLIR simulation, and specialized  lighting.

Next-generation SAR capabilities: the AW139 FTD Level 5

In parallel, the AW139 FTD Level 5 simulator is configured for Search and Rescue (SAR) and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) training. The unit includes a hoist control station and a SAR mission scenario within the ENVISION database, featuring geo-specific Australian terrain.

Visual Excellence with enwall led and ENVISION

This technology provides superior image quality and contrast, which are vital for missions where visual references are critical. The simulators are powered by the ENVISION mission engine, using advanced rendering technology to faithfully recreate Toll Aviation’s operational environments.

The simultaneous acquisition of these two units underscores the trust that critical mission operators place in entrol’s technical expertise. This dual-device implementation will allow Toll Aviation to optimize crew training, reduce operational costs, and increase safety during complex real-world missions.

Effective maintenance ensures that the device remains a reliable asset throughout its entire simulator hardware life-cycle. Below, we outline the best practices to maintain high uptime and operational excellence.

Integrated support across the simulator life cycle

A common mistake is thinking maintenance begins only after the simulator is operational. In reality, the foundation for reliability is laid during the installation phase.

Technical autonomy and initial training

At entrol, our support begins with a comprehensive handover process. We involve the operator’s technical team from the start, providing specialized training for the Installation Manager and technicians. This training focuses on:

• Daily startup/shutdown protocols to prevent system fatigue.
• Initial calibration and sensor adjustment.
• Total autonomy:  we empower our clients to handle common maintenance tasks independently, reducing dependency on the manufacturer and minimizing wait times. 
  
  

Regulatory compliance and systematic testing (QTG)

A simulator that is not certified is a simulator that cannot be used. Maintenance is inextricably linked to regulatory status (EASA/FAA).

• Qualification Test Guide (QTG): regular testing is mandatory to prove the flight model still matches real aircraft performance.
• Preventive Checklists: we implement systematic reviews every 3, 6, and 12 months. These checks go beyond surface-level cleaning, involving deep diagnostics of the visual projection alignment and motion platform integrity.

Efficient FSTD tech support and remote diagnosis

Modern simulation requires agile technical solutions. Empowering operators with efficient diagnostic capabilities, supported by our remote tools and a smart hardware philosophy, is what ensures a center remains operational 24/7.

Secure remote support for software and NavDB updates

When an issue arises, time is of the essence. Through secure FSTD tech support channels, entrol engineers can access the simulator’s software remotely. This allows for:

• Real-time software corrections: immediate troubleshooting and bug fixing.
• Navigation Database (NavDB) updates: ensuring the training environment reflects current AIP charts.
  
  

The strategic advantage of COTS components in after-sales 

A significant part of our entrol after-sales success is based on the use of COTS (Commercial Off-The-Shelf) components. Unlike proprietary hardware that can become obsolete, COTS parts offer:

• Lower long-term costs: Standardized parts are more affordable to replace.
• Local availability: If a standard PC component fails, it can often be sourced locally, avoiding international shipping delays.
• Sustainability: Extending the hardware life-cycle through easily swappable, modern components.

To explore how our technical team supports these systems, visit our support section.

Future-proofing: preventive maintenance and long-term evolution

A simulator should not just stay operational; it should stay current. Long-term maintenance also means adapting to a changing industry.

Reducing downtime through specialized technician training

We don’t just fix machines; we train people. Continuous training for maintenance staff ensures they stay updated on new software versions and hardware refinements. This “human-centered” maintenance ensures that every flight control feels exactly as it should, maintaining high-fidelity training standards.

Scalable maintenance solutions for diverse operators

We understand that every operator has different needs. Our maintenance model is flexible:

• Full Autonomy: For operators with large technical departments, entrol provides high-level support and specialized spare parts.
• Optional Maintenance Services: For those who prefer to focus purely on training, we offer comprehensive service packages where we take full responsibility for the device’s health.

Ultimately, a well-maintained FSTD is more than just a piece of technology; it is a guarantee of safety and training quality. By focusing on preventive care, flight schools can ensure their investment remains profitable for decades.

At entrol, we see the key not as choosing one over the other, but as understanding which technology best supports each specific training objective—and applying it where it truly adds value within the training process.

VR & MR: How to Choose the Right Technology in Professional Simulation

To deliver effective training, it’s essential to understand how each visual solution contributes to the overall training program. High-fidelity visual systems such as LED environments provide a strong foundation for immersive training, while technologies like VR and MR offer additional capabilities tailored to specific training needs. Rather than comparing them, the key is to apply each solution where it brings the most value to the pilot at a given moment:

• ENWALL (LED Visual System): this system is based on state-of-the-art LED technology, providing a highly immersive and high-fidelity visual environment. It integrates both wall and floor visuals, enhancing vertical visibility and improving situational awareness. The use of LED technology ensures excellent color contrast and visual clarity, while eliminating the need for warping and blending, resulting in a seamless and distortion-free experience. This makes it especially relevant for advanced training environments where visual fidelity and realism are critical.
• Virtual Reality (VR): this technology provides a fully synthetic digital environment. It is an effective tool for spatial orientation and mission-based training, allowing pilots to work through operational scenarios where situational awareness is key. As a portable and flexible solution, it is well suited for mission preparation and tactical familiarization, offering a high level of visual immersion across different stages of training.
• Mixed Reality (MR): a visual solution that allows the pilot to interact with a physical cockpit while the external environment is digitally rendered. At entrol, we see MR as a strong fit for specific mission profiles such as search and rescue or tactical operations. It enables the use of real systems and controls during these missions, reinforcing procedural accuracy and realism. It is designed for environments where coordination under pressure and precise physical interaction are critical.

The importance of sensory integration in a pilot training

While Virtual Reality is a solid tool for working on the “what” and “where” of the cockpit—focused on procedures and familiarization—the transition to advanced mission training often requires broader sensory input. In immersive pilot training, the focus shifts from cognitive understanding to haptic adaptation.

In a realistic flight simulator, providing the brain with the same physical cues it will encounter in the actual aircraft—such as the mechanical resistance of a switch or the specific friction of a collective—helps anchor the visual experience. This integration of tactile feedback enhances realism and supports a more effective transfer of skills to real-world operations, particularly in high-demand scenarios.

The role of tactile feedback in training

At entrol, mission design is based on the principle of sensory synergy. In professional simulation, spatial accuracy is the baseline: every control is mapped 1:1, ensuring that the pilot’s spatial awareness remains consistent whether operating in a digital environment or a physical cockpit.

Integrating Mixed Reality (MR) builds on this foundation by enabling physical interaction with real controls while maintaining a fully immersive virtual environment. This creates a training setup where tactile feedback and visual immersion work together in a coherent and natural way.

This combination enhances realism and supports the effective transfer of skills from simulation to real-world operations.

The “Muscle Memory” factor – the physical cockpit

In our MR simulators, the cockpit is real. When you reach for the collective, you feel friction. When you flip a switch, you hear the mechanical click. This physical feedback is what anchors the training. MR-based training ensures that the muscle memory developed in the simulator transfers effectively to the real cockpit.

Spatial awareness & depth perception

Advanced mission tasks such as hovering or precision landings rely heavily on accurate depth perception. Stereoscopic visual systems—used in both VR and MR—can provide 3D depth cues that, in some cases, offer advantages over traditional 2D displays.

The value of Mixed Reality at entrol lies in the ability to introduce real physical references. In an MR environment, the pilot can see the actual aircraft structure and cockpit alongside the digital environment. In missions like helicopter hoist simulation, these reference points help maintain situational awareness and support more consistent distance judgment.

The multi-crew ecosystem: simulating the full mission

The strength of entrol’s technology lies in its ability to synchronize different roles.

• In the cockpit: the pilot uses a physical FTD to maintain flight stability.
• In the cabin: the hoist operator uses MR goggles to lean out of the “virtual door,” seeing the terrain and the cable while interacting with a physical control. This creates a shared mission environment where coordination and visual references closely mirror real operational conditions.

Helicopter hoist simulation in MR

To understand the approach to mission readiness, it’s important to distinguish between the objectives of each role. While Mixed Reality (MR) is used in pilot training to provide in-flight references, the hoist station addresses a different need.

The hoist station is a dedicated environment designed to develop communication and standard procedures between the cockpit and the cabin. Its purpose is to strengthen verbal coordination and information exchange—both critical in search and rescue operations. By focusing on these skills, the goal is to ensure that the crew operates as a coordinated unit, where clarity and precision in communication are essential.

This level of realism is what defines a modern Flight Training Device (FTD). It’s not just about representing a mission—it’s about recreating the conditions in which it is carried out.

The aviation industry is evolving rapidly, but safety standards must remain constant. Mixed Reality allows tactile elements to be integrated into training, combining them with immersive visual environments when the training objective calls for it.

At entrol, we believe that mission readiness requires going beyond standard maneuvers. Our simulators are designed to optimize Law Enforcement aviation by reducing cognitive load and perfecting the coordination between the Pilot and the Tactical Flight Officer (TFO).

The complexity of law enforcement missions: a high-stakes environment

Unlike commercial aviation, police missions are defined by constant re-planning and split-second reactions. A routine patrol can escalate into a high-speed pursuit or a complex Search and Rescue (SAR) operation in an instant.

The complexity of these missions stems from three critical factors:

• Multi-system management: the crew must simultaneously manage the aircraft and high-tech mission equipment like FLIR, searchlights, and tactical moving maps.
• Coordinating multiple participants: success depends on the seamless synchronization between the Pilot, the TFO, ground units, and command centers.
• Cognitive load: flying the helicopter is only 50% of the task; the rest is processing mission-critical data in a “live” and evolving environment.

The entrol mission simulator: a total solution

The answer to this complexity isn’t just more flight hours—which are costly and risky—but the use of advanced mission-integrated simulation.

• Total environmental control: instructors can inject sudden system failures, change weather conditions, or introduce conflicting air traffic.
• Specialized TFO training: our simulators allow the Tactical Flight Officer and the Pilot to train together in the same virtual ecosystem, significantly improving Crew Resource Management (CRM).
• Smart entity interaction: high-fidelity simulation of suspect vehicles, foot pursuits, and coordination with ground-based units.
• Real-world databases: crews can train over a “digital twin” of their own city or jurisdiction, repeating maneuvers in the exact high-risk areas they patrol daily.
  
  
  

Strategic vision: beyond the regulations

Ultimately, meeting aviation regulations is about ensuring a pilot can operate the aircraft safely. However, at entrol, we believe that true mission readiness requires more than just technical flight skills.

To wrap up the importance of this specialized training, Iñigo Hernández, Business Development Manager at entrol, concludes that investing in high-fidelity simulation is more than just an operational cost-saving measure; it is a direct investment in crew safety and public security success. 

By prioritizing this strategic vision, agencies move beyond the baseline of compliance, ensuring their teams are equipped with the tactical coordination and mental resilience required to complete objectives in high-stress environments.

• To maximize tactical realism, entrol has incorporated original components into the simulator, ranging from the cockpit seat and flight and engine controls to genuine Garmin hardware for training.
  
  

• entrol’s high-fidelity flight models are complemented by advanced technology, including a triple-laser projection visual system, a thermal camera, and a Head-Up Display (HUD).

• The unique addition of a second station facilitates practising two-ship missions common in aerial firefighting.

Madrid, March 18th, 2026

entrol, the manufacturer of EASA and FAA certified FNPT, FTD, and FFS flight simulators, is pleased to announce the successful installation of a state-of-the-art Air Tractor AT-802 simulator for Aquarius Aerial Firefighting (Aquarius AFF) in Luxembourg. This device was specifically configured for the “Sea” (Fire Boss) version and a cornerstone of the pilots training program.

The project stands out for its focus on operational realism. To ensure a seamless training experience, entrol has integrated original components of the aircraft type, including the real Garmin G600 TXi avionics and the pilot seat. This combination of real hardware and proprietary software eliminates tactile differences in the cockpit, allowing pilots to develop precise muscle memory for critical missions.

Operational fidelity and genuine hardware

To bridge the gap between simulation and real life situations, entrol has gone beyond standard replicas. This unit integrates original Garmin G600 TXi glass cockpit hardware, to ensure that pilots interact with the exact interface used in real missions. Complementing the avionics, the simulator includes a real aircraft seat, providing the specific ergonomics and tactile feedback required for endurance firefighting missions.

Tactical excellence: seeing through the smoke

(EVS & HUD)

Aerial firefighting is a high-stakes environment where situational awareness is easily compromised by dense smoke and terrain. Entrol has therefore the simulator with a unique technological suite designed for “eyes-out” operations:

• Enhanced Vision System (EVS) & HUD: The integration of an Aerodisplay HUD with a long-wave infrared (LWIR) thermal camera allows pilots to “see” through thick smoke. The system projects critical flight symbology—including airspeed (left), altitude (right), and heading (top)—directly onto the pilot’s line of sight.

• Thermal Imaging Feed: Combined with the flight data, a high-contrast monochrome thermal feed is displayed, allowing the identification of hotspots, terrain relief, and fire line when visual references are completely obscured by smoke. This ensures accuracy during water drops and enhances crew safety in hostile environments.

“This simulator is a leap forward in tactical training for Europe,” explains Juanjo Lechosa, Business Development Manager at entrol. “We have developed a specific vibration system that replicates the structural loads during water scooping and the sudden change in Center of Gravity (CG) during a drop. This allows Aquarius AFF pilots to master the most dangerous phases of the mission in a controlled, high-fidelity environment.”

The simulator includes a geo-specific database with high-resolution imagery of critical operational areas, such as the Welzow Aerodrome (EDCY) in Germany. Furthermore, the Advanced Debriefing Station allows instructors to review mission parameters in 3D, analyzing drop accuracy and flight path efficiency to optimize tactical performance.

The simulator includes a geo-specific database with high-resolution imagery of critical operational areas, such as the Welzow Aerodrome (EDCY) in Germany. Furthermore, the Advanced Debriefing Station allows instructors to review mission parameters in 3D, analyzing drop accuracy and flight path efficiency to optimize tactical performance.