Learning to use an aviation training device commonly referred to as a flight simulator is a lot like all the tools on a Swiss Army knife—you will have a much better experience if you learn how to correctly apply them to a given situation.
That’s the premise out of the 14th Redbird Migration, the annual conference designed for the users of Redbird Flight simulation technology, from the desktop-mounted Jay for home and classroom use to the Redbird AMS, a full motion, highly immersive, cockpit-specific, FAA-certified Advanced Aviation Training Device (AATD) for turbine aircraft.
Registration is now open for the event, which will take place March 5-6 at the Lone Star Flight Museum in Houston. The event moves around the country to allow more people an opportunity to attend.
Each migration brings in keynote speakers from the aviation industry to address aviation educators, K-12 STEM teachers, flight instructors, and flight school owners. Breakout sessions are conducted on topics as diverse as using the Redbird as a marketing tool, best practices for CFIs in the Redbird, and using the devices for school children to enhance lessons.
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According to Josh Harnagel, flight instructor and vice president of marketing at Redbird, the conference is free to attendees, but there is a space limitation of 350. This year, speakers include James Viola, president and CEO of Helicopter Association International, and Bob Hepp, chief CFI of Aviation Adventures.
“We also plan to have someone from the National Transportation Safety Board as well as representation from the other aviation alphabet groups,” Harnagel said. “In addition, this year at the breakout sessions there will be a wider range of folks. On the Monday before Migration begins, there will be a continuing education event for teachers that will demonstrate how to use the sims in the classroom and use of our classroom management tools.”
One of those scheduled to present is Harvey Madison, director of instruction, design, and content at Redbird. One of his skill sets is working with nonaviation teachers to help them better utilize the Redbird in their classrooms.
“You learn so much more by taking concepts from a lecture and applying them on the sim, building that muscle memory,” said Madison. “The sim is the lab part of the class—like in chemistry class where you had the lecture, then in the hands-on part [where] you mixed the chemicals. You use the sim in the classroom for the lab practical part of the lecture.”
About the Lone Star Aviation Museum
Redbird is especially excited about this year’s host venue, as the Lone Star Flight Museum is one of the finest aviation and aerospace facilities in the country. Among its exhibits is the space gallery with a shuttle cockpit and a MaxFlight FS-VC interactive simulator that literally puts you in the pilot’s seat.
For more information or to register, visit migration.redbirdflight.com.
