During 2011 Aviamech designed, manufactured and installed a Jetstream J41 Flight Simulator at Airlink’s training facility in Bonaero Park, OR Tambo Airport, Johannesburg.
The Jetstream 41 is a turboprop powered regional airliner, designed in the early 90’s by British Aerospace as a stretched version of the very successful Jetstream 31. Many J41’s are still flying today including several here in Africa. It had more powerful engines, a modern electronic flight information system (EFIS) and a computerised engine management system. It was a technically advanced aircraft at its launch. In its final form the J41had carried 39 passengers and had an onboard washroom. Wide leather seats gave the cabin an executive feel.
Late in 2024 the Simulator was decommissioned and extracted from their facility and transported to our workshop in Midrand for a major upgrade. When complete the Simulator will have new powerful computers, modern operating and flight software and many new components to ensure trouble free operation long into the future.
Whenever a simulator is moved or upgraded new documentation, known as the master qualification test guide (or MQTG), must be produced and approved by the South African Civil Aviation Authority. To explain MQTG further it means documented results of series of tests that are designed to demonstrate that the performance and handling qualities of an approved Flight Simulator Training Device are identical, within set tolerances, of the actual aircraft.
To ensure this an enhanced flight model based on manufacturers data and flight test data recorded on the actual aircraft is being produced. Aviamech have developed an advanced flight test data collection procedure that was used to collect, verify and analyse information from the aircrafts flight data recorder. This information is used to create and refine the flight model.
Currently (as of March 2026) the actual simulator hardware including computers, new force feedback system, switches and instrument panels are all installed and tested. Software and flight model development is ongoing.
Whan installed the simulator will employ a 250 degree x 30 degree field of view visual system projecting images onto cylindrical screen. Powerful computers and State-of-the-art High-Definition Laser projectors ensure clear, smooth graphics and accurate weather and terrain representation.
This is a complex project involving highly skilled Aviamech technicians. When complete the simulator will be installed in Airlinks dedicated training Centre and accredited by the South African Civil Aviation Authority. It will become an FNPT2 Type Specific device, allowing it to be used for Type Rating courses, advanced flight training and Pilot proficiency checks.
