April 1,2008:
Finland is opening a pilot training school for use by the Finnish Air
Force, and trainees from other countries. The Nordic Pilot Training Centre
(NPTC) is being managed by Patria, a Finnish military supplier, and staffed by
civilians, as well as personnel from the Finnish Air Force. The school will use
Hawk trainers, as well as flight simulators,
and will teach NATO standard flying skills. The NPTC aims to offer
flight training more cheaply than air forces can do it on their own. While NATO
countries will be the main customers, other nations will be offered these
training services as well. For many small nations, that buy high performance
aircraft, the NPTC would be a cheaper, and higher quality alternative to
setting up their own flight school. The
NPTC will be open for business in two years.