(Boise, Idaho — August 22, 2023) — Aviation Specialties Unlimited (ASU) has once again been awarded the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Flight Standards Operations Inspectors and Aircraft Certification Pilots night vision goggle (NVG) training contract while operating fixed-wing aircraft. This marks the third time ASU has been selected for this contract, continuing its leadership in NVG flight training.
ASU has been training FAA pilots since 2017, when it was first awarded the fixed-wing NVG training contract, followed by a renewal in 2020. The company has also provided FAA helicopter NVG training since 2007.
ASU utilizes a night vision-modified Cessna 206 for its FAA NVG training program, offering pilots an immersive training experience. The training environment transitions from high-light desert conditions to backcountry mountainous terrain with zero artificial light near Boise, Idaho.
For initial FAA NVG training, pilots and inspectors undergo:
✔ 8 hours of classroom instruction
✔ 1.5 hours of daytime flight training
✔ 5.5 hours of NVG flight training
Recurrent NVG training is also provided at ASU’s Boise facility.
“When an organization entrusts us with their training needs, it validates the dedication and expertise of our team,” said ASU Chief Pilot K Kirkendall. “Our mission is to save lives through expert night vision training and technology.”
ASU has consistently earned FAA contracts for both fixed-wing and helicopter NVG training, demonstrating its industry-leading expertise.
“We have worked hard to secure both the fixed-wing and rotorcraft training contracts with the FAA,” said ASU President Joe Estrera. “We look forward to continuing our partnership with the FAA.”
Since 2017, ASU has trained FAA fixed-wing inspectors for both initial and recurrent NVG training. Additionally, since 2007, ASU has provided FAA helicopter NVG training and continues to hold the FAA helicopter inspector training contract.
With our cutting-edge NVG technology and expert training programs, ASU has helped pilots and inspectors improve their night flight capabilities in a variety of challenging environments. As the demand for night vision flight operations continues to grow, ASU remains committed to providing world-class NVG training to support aviation safety and operational excellence.
By continuously innovating and adapting to the evolving needs of pilots and aviation professionals, ASU ensures that its NVG training programs remain at the forefront of safety, performance, and mission success.
