A “Royal” Multi-Million Euro Contract Takes South Styrian Flight Specialist to New Heights

A first for Axis: The Styrian aerospace innovator has just developed and delivered a flight simulator for a research aircraft – a premiere project. For one of Europe’s leading aviation research centers, Axis has recreated a “King Air” twin-turboprop aircraft. The record-breaking contract volume is largely credited to the company’s newly launched flight test campaigns. In recognition of this achievement, Governor Christopher Drexler awarded Axis the Styrian Coat of Arms.

LEBRING. There’s a flurry of activity on the tarmac outside the headquarters of flight simulator manufacturer Axis. Just days ago, trucks carrying the high-profile simulator left the premises, and now the site is buzzing again – this time with a visit from Styrian Governor Christopher Drexler. While the million-euro simulator delivery and the ceremonial presentation of the Styrian Coat of Arms happen to coincide, the timing is more than symbolic: in just two decades, Axis has soared from its roots in Lebring to become a globally recognized player in aviation technology.

As one of only five companies worldwide capable of building state-of-the-art Level D flight simulators – the highest certification for realism and training – Axis specializes in high-fidelity simulation, including full-motion capabilities, ultra-detailed visuals, and accurate aircraft system modeling. What sets the 100-person company apart: its simulators are certified by both the U.S. FAA and Europe’s EASA. Pilots around the globe train on Axis systems, mastering everything from aerodynamic stalls to precision landings.

“A Styrian Success Story”

Governor Drexler called Axis’ rise a “Styrian success story” and congratulated the team:

“This company is a shining example of how research and innovation in Styria create not only jobs but international recognition. Companies like Axis show that Styria is already a leader in mobility – from aviation to rail – and is poised for even more growth. Awarding the Styrian Coat of Arms is a way of honoring the outstanding achievements of Axis and acknowledging a company that continually pushes the boundaries of what is technologically possible.”

Simulating with a Real Aircraft – in Florida

The recently completed simulator, worth around €10 million, put Axis’ expertise to full use. Commissioned by INCAS – the EU’s top aerospace research institute based in Bucharest – Axis spent nearly two years replicating a high-performance, twin-engine Beechcraft King Air. The aircraft is used to conduct research in fluid dynamics, applied aerodynamics, and flight physics. To safely and repeatedly train pilots for such complex maneuvers, a high-fidelity simulator was essential.

“We deliver a perfect replica of real flight conditions, so pilots can rehearse every flight phase with precision,” says Axis Managing Director Christian Theuermann. “Every aspect of the aircraft – from controls to weather responses – needs to be simulated in exact detail to make the training realistic.”

Real Flight Tests for Virtual Precision

Reproducing the “King Air” was especially challenging: unlike most aircraft, the manufacturer doesn’t share detailed behavioral data. So Axis blazed a trail unmatched on the global market – they collected the necessary data themselves. By equipping a leased King Air with sensors and instruments, Axis launched a custom flight test campaign to record the aircraft’s real-life performance.

Navigating tough regulatory processes and Europe’s unpredictable weather wasn’t easy – so Axis moved testing to Florida for more stable conditions.

“We shifted our entire campaign to Florida to guarantee consistent weather,” says Theuermann.

Opening a New Market

These flight test campaigns – now a new core offering – open major opportunities:

“We can now develop simulators for aircraft whose flight data was previously inaccessible,” explains Michaela Froelich, Commercial Director at Axis. “This breaks new ground in the industry.”

Until now, simulator production has depended heavily on tight partnerships with aircraft manufacturers. Axis is changing that model – and it’s already impacting business:

“Our project pipeline is strong, and we’re fully booked for the next 24 months. What we’ve accomplished as a team is truly remarkable – and we’re not slowing down,” Froelich adds.

As demand grows, Axis is hiring: aviation engineers, software developers, CNC machinists, and production planners are all in demand.