Delta State University’s aviation department receives federal grant
Delta State University’s Commercial Aviation Department has been awarded a $1 million federal grant to purchase an advanced Agricultural and Aerial Firefighting Flight Simulator.
As reported by Delta State University, the simulator, an Air Tractor 802 model, will be the first of its kind and will support the university’s Agricultural Aircraft Operations Career Pathway (AAOCP) program.
The simulator is designed to enhance training for students specializing in aerial agriculture and firefighting operations.
With the simulator’s high-fidelity, scenario-based training capabilities, students will gain critical skills in aerial application techniques.
These skills are essential for crop management and firefighting, aiming to increase pilot readiness and safety for challenging flight scenarios.
The simulator represents an opportunity for hands-on experience without the risks and expenses associated with actual flight time.
Funding and support from federal and state sources
The funding for this simulator has been provided through federal and state contributions, sponsored by Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith.
In addition to the initial purchase, Delta State University will allocate $60,000 annually for ongoing maintenance, repairs, and operational training of the simulator, ensuring that it remains a valuable asset for years to come.
Delta State will not require new staff to manage the simulator.
The existing faculty and staff within the Commercial Aviation Department will oversee its operations.
This integration of resources allows Delta State to deliver advanced training directly to students within the AAOCP program, underlining the university’s commitment to providing high-quality aviation education.
Enhanced training for real-world applications
The Air Tractor 802 simulator will offer students the chance to engage in training sessions that mimic real-world conditions, allowing them to refine skills crucial for aerial application and firefighting missions.
According to Major Allen Williams, Chair of the Commercial Aviation Department: “This grant is precedent setting.
“For us to be able to continue to grow our ag training program, it’s going to give us an opportunity to increase the depth of knowledge for our students.
“It will give us the opportunity also to develop some streams where we can start off with some recurring training for the ag industry across the country because of the uniqueness and the capacity for this simulator.”
Delta State University anticipates that the simulator will be fully operational within the next two years, providing students with immersive training experiences that mirror the demands of both agriculture and firefighting sectors.
Delta State’s expanding aviation program and congressional support
Dr. Tomeka Harbin, Interim Dean of the College of Business and Aviation, expressed appreciation for the congressional support that made this simulator possible: “I am thrilled that we have been allocated congressional funds to purchase the Agricultural and Firefighting Airplane Simulator.
These resources are vital in helping us achieve our mission of being the premiere academic aviation institution in the state.”
Aerial Applicator Program Coordinator Sheila Millican highlighted the value of this investment for Delta State’s future aviation professionals, stating: “It is reassuring to know that Senator Hyde-Smith is looking out for our program in Washington and helping us continue to grow.
“The opportunities in this industry are real, and our students can graduate with a skill set that is very much in demand around the country.”
Delta State University awarded $1 million federal grant for agricultural and aerial firefighting simulator: Summary
Delta State University’s Commercial Aviation Department has secured a $1 million federal grant to fund the acquisition of an Agricultural and Aerial Firefighting Flight Simulator, which will be the first of its kind for its Agricultural Aircraft Operations Career Pathway program.
This high-tech Air Tractor 802 simulator, supported by federal and state funds with annual maintenance budgeted by the university, aims to provide students with realistic, scenario-based training in aerial agriculture and firefighting applications.
Expected to be operational within two years, the simulator will enhance Delta State’s aviation training offerings and help prepare students for industry demands.