The use of original cockpit sections in our simulators offers unmatched authenticity and precision, preserving the exact dimensions, materials, and layout of the original aircraft. This ensures a highly accurate representation of the cockpit environment look and feel.
Beyond technical fidelity, repurposing existing cockpit structures supports environmental sustainability through upcycling—reducing waste and minimizing the need for new manufacturing. This approach not only honors our aviation heritage but also aligns with ecological values, making it a responsible and effective choice for simulator projects.
About the Aircraft
- Type & Model: Cessna Citation Jet CJ2 (Cessna 525A)
- Registration: 9H-FAM (ex OE-FAM)
- Year of manufacture: 2002
- SN: 525A-0058
- Last Operator: Van E Aviation LLC
This aircraft was built in 2002 and operated by Van E Aviation LLC as a company jet for Land O Frost Inc., a US manufacturer of meat products.
From Airframe to Simulator
The nose section of this aircraft was chosen due to its excellent condition, although the rest of the plane was literally a wreck.
The nose section was chosen due to its nearly new condition after just two years of use.
The cockpit was carefully separated from the fuselage, secured on a sturdy wooden pallet, and safely wrapped with shrink film.
It was then shipped to Europe via sea freight before being delivered directly to our facility.
- Any restoration or modification done by AXIS
Subsequently, the cockpit was fully dismantled and all components were removed, leaving only the outer shell and structural framework.
The parts were then partially repurchased, replicated, or custom-manufactured using our in-house 3D printer.
Based on this, we completely rebuilt the cockpit to create a highly accurate replica for use in our simulator.
The Incident / The Final Flight of 9H-FAM
On December 27, 2017, 9H-FAM overran snowy runway 20 at Indiana’s Michigan City Municipal Airport-Phillips Field while landing. The plane went on to impact the airport fence, a highway barrier and terrain before coming to rest in a cornfield about 300 yards from the departure end of the runway. The airplane sustained substantial damage, including separation of the left wing near the wing root and impact damage to the vertical stabilizer. Luckily there were only minor injuries.
The aircraft was irreparably damaged. Yet although its flying days are over, its cockpit was salvaged and continues to serve aviation safety and pilot training.
Simulator IntegrationThis Level D simulator uses the original cockpit structure, throttle quadrant, control yokes and buttons. The instrumentation is a rehost solution with original controls.
Preserving Aviation Heritage
“Every simulator at AXIS carries a real story. By transforming genuine aircraft components into training devices, we connect past aviation with the future of flight safety.”
