Successful Level D qualification at TACA Airlines for Mechtronix A320 FFS
X(TM)

    
               TACA to Optimize Pilot Training And Proficiency
      While Lowering Costs with Mechtronix Train@Home Business Model
    

MONTREAL, March 17 /CNW Telbec/ - Mechtronix Systems Inc., an MWC company, a world leading manufacturer of Flight Simulation Training Devices, today announced the successful Level D certification of TACA Airlines' A320 FFS X(TM); it was unveiled during a recent ceremony at TACA's brand new training facility in San Salvador, El Salvador. The simulator manufactured by Mechtronix Systems enables the airlines' pilots to train at base of operations translating into enhanced training capabilities and efficiency while substantially saving on travel costs and time off the line. At customer's request, the evaluation was performed by both the Salvadorian aviation authorities, AAC, and the Spanish aviation authorities, DGAC, for the EASA regulations.

"We are very pleased to have received the Level D qualification for our brand new simulator and we see this acquisition as a key investment bringing us the flexibility in operations we were looking for as we no longer have to send our pilots away for training. Furthermore we are able to design and perform programs and training sessions tailored to our flight crews' specific needs and that go far beyond the minimum requirements set by the regulatory framework; this is a real gain in training capability, quality and efficiency", said Jorge Solares, VP of Flight Operations at TACA Airlines (TACA). "We selected Mechtronix as they proved to be the leading providers of training solutions today with relevant experience in the design and manufacturing of next generation simulators for the Airbus Series."

"We are very proud that TACA chose Mechtronix A320 FFS X(TM) to be able to "Train@Home", said Mechtronix Systems President Hervé. "It is a pleasure to help growing airlines become independent with their training curriculum and allow them to own their simulator. Our "Train@Home" business model proves again to have great results worldwide including Latin America; TACA joins the growing group of Mechtronix' customers. This successful qualification further demonstrates Mechtronix' ability to provide today's airlines and training centers with proven and reliable state-of-the-art pilot training equipment."

The A320 FFS X(TM), a highly cost-effective and easy-to-operate platform, enables the airline to save time and money as their pilots can train with no time or travel constraints. Featuring an electric motion base which takes up less space, TACA's FFS X(TM) is quieter and easier to maintain than traditional hydraulic units. The unit also offers the highest Level D fidelity through a collimated visual system that allows for multi-dimensional viewing. Now that TACA will not have to send their pilot crews to far away training centers, the airline will optimize crew coverage while lowering training costs. The state-of-the-art simulator provides an easier access to training and enables to perform 100% of initial and recurrent training at base of operations. The FFS X(TM) also secures a fast return on investment as they plan to rent it to other airlines and training centers in the region.

About TACA Airlines

TACA Airlines was originally founded in the 1930s as a cargo company and has its home base of operations is in El Salvador. TACA serves 10 major cities in the United States, Toronto in Canada, Mexico City, all of the countries of Central America and the business and tourist destinations in South America and the Caribbean. With the newest fleet in the America - 38 aircraft Airbus 319, 320 and 321, and 2 Embraer E190 - TACA Airlines offers the most advanced aerospace technology and all attention to safety and comfort. For more information, please visit www.taca.com.

About Mechtronix Systems Inc.

Mechtronix Systems Inc. (Mechtronix Systems), an MWC company, specializes in the design and manufacturing of Flight Simulation Training Devices for general, business and commercial aviation. Fuelled by 20+ years of passion and dedication, we are a top leader on the global flight simulation and training market with a presence in America, Europe and Asia. Based in Montreal, Mechtronix Systems offers a full range of products from full flight simulators to flight training devices, setting new industry standards for higher fidelity, reliability, cost efficiency and safety. To support our worldwide customers that include major airlines, training centers and training organizations, we have technical support centers strategically located around the globe. To learn more, visit www.mwc.mechtronix.com.

For further information: Armando Portillo, Training Administration & Logistics, TACA Airlines, [phone], [email protected]; Adeline Gautier, Marketing Director, Mechtronix Systems Inc., [phone], [email protected]