Home / About Us
About Us
Whether you’re training professionally or for the experience itself, X – Aero Training Academy brings you a high standard of training, built on our own operational practice.
Our story
Welcome to X-Aero Training Academy
X – Aero Training Academy was born in 2022 from the merger of SAF Training Academy and Azur Hélicoptères, two approved training organisations (ATOs). SAF Training Academy, originally focused on advanced training, expanded its offer in 2019 by acquiring Azur Hélicoptères Training Centre, the French leader in initial pilot training.
Today, X – Aero Training Academy (XTA) is one of the major players in helicopter training in Europe, delivering EASA-approved training alongside customised programmes drawn from the operational experience of SAF Aerogroup’s subsidiaries.
Whether you’re after a single course or a complete training programme, our team can meet your needs.
2022
X-Aero Training Academy founded
6
helicopter types
2
helicopter simulators
2
training bases · Albertville and Réunion Island
Our vision
X – Aero Training is an international benchmark for helicopter training, built on solidarity, safety, innovation and sustainable performance. As part of SAF Aerogroup, we bring an operational, international outlook to training — and hold ourselves to the highest standards because of it.
Our mission
- Train our customers to the highest safety standard, and prepare them to operate safely in their future missions.
- Provide instructors drawn from — or currently flying for — SAF Aerogroup, matched to each training objective and level.
- Build sustainable, long-term training: more simulator use, continuously improved operational procedures, an eye on the environment.
Leadership
Simon Labrunie
Accountable Manager & Flight Instructor
What our students say
“The use of a flight simulator is essential in the context of maintaining the skills of our pilots, in order to be able to carry out training and controls in the most realistic conditions possible. It is with pleasure that we regularly come to Albertville to enjoy the training center and its dynamic team.”
Mathieu V.
“A quality structure and permanent support from the pedagogical team have largely contributed to the success of my training.”
Pierre O., first experience on the AS350 simulator for type-rating revalidation
“Pedagogical, patient and efficient — he knew how to erase my doubts about the simulator and make each session useful.”
Marielle S.
Not sure which course fits?
Tell us where you are in your career and we will suggest a route.