RIYADH: Aviation training in Saudi Arabia is poised for enhancement with the introduction of two new A320neo simulators by Saudia Academy. These simulators, acquired from US-based L3Harris Technologies, are highly regarded for aviation training, being precise replicas of a real Airbus A320 cockpit. As per a press statement, the academy’s A320neo simulator count has now reached five with this latest addition. Ismael Al-Koshy, CEO of Saudia Academy, said: “The launch of these A320neo simulators is a testament to our dedication to remain at the forefront of the aviation training technology.” He added: “This strategic expansion reflects our commitment to meeting the dynamic needs of the regional market, particularly with the growing presence of the narrowbody A320neo.” The CEO added that they were not just enhancing their capacity but were actively contributing to the dynamic growth of aviation expertise in the Kingdom and beyond. Saudia Academy, the strategic business unit of Saudi Arabian Airlines Corp., presently operates four facilities in Jeddah catering to flight training, safety training, in-flight service training, and technical training. The latter is scheduled to move to the MRO Village under Saudia Technic. Furthermore, the academy serves as a regional training partner of the International Air Transport Association and functions as an authorized training center, providing IATA courses and certificates. “We are proud to provide two cutting-edge A320neo simulators to Saudia Academy, further building on the partnership between the two organizations,” said Alan Crawford, president of L3Harris Commercial Aviation Solutions. “This is a great example of a strategic alliance between two industry leaders and the collaboration demonstrates our commitment to Saudia Academy’s growth plans and elevating the air transport and logistics sectors in the Kingdom to new heights,” he added. The strengthening of the aviation sector and the participation of Saudi nationals in it are paramount for the Kingdom, especially as it aims to establish itself as a global tourism hub by 2030. In December 2023, Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, president of the Kingdom’s General Authority of Civil Aviation, announced Saudi Arabia’s plan to invest $100 million to accommodate 356 million passengers, thereby bolstering its tourism initiatives and aligning with its aviation strategy under Vision 2030.