Public and private helicopter distributor Eurocopter has announced that it is to build a new flagship technical support and training centre in Aberdeen to serve the North Sea oil and gas industry.

In addition to housing a flight simulation suite, the centre at Kirkhill Commercial Park in Dyce will also provide key logistical and technical support to the offshore sector.

The flight simulation complex will cover 5,360 sq ft and will house Eurocopter's first UK-based EC225 Flight Training Simulator, providing the latest technology to new cadets.

Markus Steinke, managing director of the company, commented: "The new state of the art Eurocopter facility in Aberdeen reinforces Eurocopter's commitment to investing in the UK and to bringing the best technical and logistical support to where our customers need it most."

The decision to deploy the EC225 was announced in July 2008, with company chief executive Lutz Bertling saying that it would respond to the needs of the Scottish oil and gas industry.

5th Global Education and Training event for Oil and Gas: Exploration and Production