Zurich, Switzerland

First Citation Mustang FAA AATD level simulator sold to Kenya

Kenya, with its stunning coastline along the Indian ocean and over 53 million inhabitants, has a thriving aviation industry. The aviation sector is a major contributor to Kenya's economy as well as a key enabler in its future development as an economic leader in Africa.

Just a few numbers: In 2019, Kenya registered its highest-ever number of air traffic passengers, with over 12 million annual passengers, of which 7 million were from outside the country. The most common airports are Jomo Kenyatta International Airport at Nairobi and Moi
International Airport at Mombasa.

"This FAA AATD level Cessna Citation Mustang simulator, featuring Garmin G1000 instrumentation with three screens is the very first delivery for us," says René Huddlestone, sales director at ELITE Flight Simulation Solutions AG in Switzerland. "Our customer specifically requested Kenyan visual scenery and navigation data, which the engineers at ELITE conscientiously created."

There was also state-of-the art technology added to the flight simulator: a 2.3 m diameter DOME visual system which provides a complete solution with a large fully encompassing field of view. With a 12-month on the simulator, the staff at EASA Kenya are now in a situation to fly complex flight maneuvers in a safe and cost-effective environment.

First Citation Mustang FAA AATD level simulator sold to Kenya

The end user is the EASA (East African School of Aviation) Kenya at Nairobi Wilson airport, which is used mainly by general aviation traffic. It is situated only two and a half miles by road south of the business district of Nairobi, the capital of Kenya. This airport is rich in aviation history and even served as Royal Air Force base at one point.

"Thanks to our local dealer Geoscintex the sale process was very smooth and to the fullest satisfaction of all parties involved," continued Mr. Huddlestone. "The Mustang is the most nimble of the Citation Jets and is nestled in the Very Light Jet category. The easy handling at low speed and its maneuverability makes it an excellent traveller, especially for those, who decided to own their very first jet.

"These are truly exciting times for Kenyan aviation, as more and more FTO’s and business jet operators discover the benefits of operating their own flight simulator," he concluded.