Not just for training: Exploring Kore University of Enna’s use of a full flight simulator from AXIS Flight Simulation for pilot research

 

Kore University of Enna, located in Sicily, is pioneering a research-driven approach to flight simulation, using a Level D full flight simulator (FFS) developed by AXIS Flight Simulation, which replicates a Cessna Citation C560 XLS.

Led by Professor Andrea Alaimo, the university’s aerospace team has leveraged the high-fidelity simulator to conduct detailed investigations into pilot workload and behaviour under both normal and abnormal flight conditions. These studies incorporate biometric data, such as heart rate variability, and examine pilot stress and human error, two factors which are critical to flight safety.

Professor Alaimo explains: "The simulator’s value lies in its ability to replicate abnormal flight conditions that cannot safely be tested in real-world environments. From system malfunctions to adverse weather and high-workload scenarios, it allows us to conduct deep, data-driven research that goes far beyond pilot training."

Involvement in European research projects
Kore University is actively involved in both national and international research initiatives. Key among them is the Progetti di Ricerca di Interesse Nazionale (PRIN) programme, a scheme that supports research projects of national relevance proposed by Italian universities and research institutions, and the Twincraft project, a collaborative European effort focused on studying cabin comfort and passenger experience.

The Twincraft project is exploring how VR and AR technologies can enhance the understanding of cabin environments from the passenger’s perspective. These tools are being tested in high-fidelity simulated environments to measure comfort, evaluate usability and ultimately improve aircraft cabin design.

Upgrading for the future
Kore University is in the process of upgrading its simulator to the latest EASA CS-FSTD(A) standards, with the goal of qualifying it for official pilot training. This step will deepen the realism of research environments and open new opportunities for collaborative instruction in partnership with NATO-certified instructors.

Professor Alaimo explains: "Qualifying the simulator for pilot training will significantly enrich our research, allowing us to conduct studies during initial pilot instruction when engagement is highest, and behavioural authenticity is most accurately captured."

Kore University is also exploring further collaboration with AXIS Flight Simulation in simulator development. One promising area is the design and analysis of icing models using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). Professor Alaimo’s team is conducting the CFD work in-house, presenting a significant opportunity for technological co-development.

Impact on academic studies

By having access to a high-fidelity Level D FFS – which is rare in academic studies, which usually have to reply on far lower-fidelity simulators – the university has been able to publish several studies, which have resulted in the creation of a new workload evaluation questionnaires, development of custom mission scenarios, and the integration of multiple biometric measurements to assess cognitive load of pilots.

Professor Alaimo adds: "Kore University is committed to expanding the use of its AXIS flight simulator across education, research and future development. This partnership is a blueprint for how advanced simulation technology can go beyond training and become a powerful platform for innovation in aviation safety, design and human performance."