Zero flight time (Level 5) status is the highest level of accreditation under Australian standards.
It allows experienced pilots to undertake training using a high-quality flight simulator instead of an actual aircraft.
The award follows an engineering upgrade by Thales Australia, which transformed a simulator platform based on the Boeing 737-700 NG into one tailored to the Wedgetail’s specific requirements, configuration and aerodynamics.
The OFT is situated at the Airborne Early Warning & Control (AEW&C) support centre at RAAF Base Williamtown, near
Newcastle, NSW.
The AEW&C Wedgetail aircraft is being procured by the Commonwealth from Boeing to provide surveillance, air defence, fleet support and force coordination.
It features advanced sensors, avionics, navigation equipment, mission system and flight deck.