Preparing for CRJ Operations

CRJ Flight Training Device (FTD) at San Juan College

The Ascent® Jet flight training device (FTD), is a fixed-base simulator designed to introduce pilots to advanced technology and the automated flight deck.

The FTD consists of a life-size cockpit set up like a CRJ-200 with functional control panels mounted on a sub-frame. Manufactured by Mechtronix in Montreal, the simulator is valued at over $1 million and contains full instrumentation, avionics, flight controls and a visual system. All simulation meets the requirements for pilots transitioning between propeller and jet operations, specifically in a regional twin-engine jet class aircraft. Modeled after the Canadair Regional Jet Series 200 (CRJ200), a 50-seat aircraft, the FTD simulates all phases of flight in a highly realistic environment that will replicate the form, fit and feel of the aircraft flight deck. The pilot will train in a 3D enclosed shell in normal, non-normal and emergency procedures.

Both the Primary and PACE Programs include training in the CRJ FTD - 20 hours in the right seat and 20 hours in the left seat. Pilots who graduate from these programs are guaranteed an interview with Mesa Air Group for a First Officer position, with a strong probability of being hired.

"San Juan College pilot graduates fully understand Mesa Air Group’s standards, procedures and cockpit coordination,” said Mesa Pilot Development president Pete Hayes. “We get a highly trained professional flying our aircraft. We tend to keep them longer, our recruiting and training expenses go down and the failure rate is much lower than with pilots off the street.”

"Mesa made a major investment in this flight training program because it translates to reduced pilot training costs for the company. The majority of our pilots will be hired into the Canadair jets at the airline. Flight training for the student pilots in our complex aircraft (Bonanzas and Barons) gives them the experience of heavier aircraft. That provides an excellent transition to the jet environment when they are hired at the airline. Capping the flight training with experience in the CRJ FTD and being trained and observed by line pilots really prepares them for success", reports Donley Watkins, Chief Flight Instructor.

The Mesa Pilot Development program at San Juan College ensures that Phoenix-based Mesa Air Group, one of the fastest-growing regional airlines in the country, has pilots who have already been trained in the jet aircraft they will be flying. The integration of the Ascent® Jet FTD enables pilot graduates to enhance their crew training in a regional jet environment.

Mesa Air Group, Inc. and its subsidiaries currently operate 203 aircraft with over 1,100 daily system departures to 186 cities, 44 states, the District of Columbia, Canada and Mexico. Mesa currently operates as US Airways Express, United Express, Delta Connection, go! Airlines in Hawaii.

Call 800-232-6327 Now for Information.