In the dynamic and ever-evolving world of aviation, training is the linchpin of innovation and safety. Tom Reinert, Chief Commercial Officer at New Airtech Flight Test Academy (NAFTA), shares insights from his multifaceted career as a test pilot, sales leader, and chief pilot. He reveals how NAFTA leverages cutting-edge technology, like the DESDEMONA simulator, and customized training programs to prepare aviation professionals for the challenges of tomorrow.
Tom, your extensive career spans roles as a test pilot, chief pilot, and instructor across military and civil aviation. How has this journey shaped your approach as Chief Commercial Officer at NAFTA?
While my experience as a test pilot and chief pilot has been invaluable, it’s my business development background that plays the most significant role in my approach as CCO. At Grob Aircraft SE, where I served as Head of Sales and Chief Pilot, I was involved in every aspect of client engagement—from development to after-sales support. This experience honed my ability to understand and address client needs, a skill I now apply to create customized training solutions at NAFTA.
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- 2011: Tom Reinert standing proudly in front of the ECR Tornado, reflecting his active service as a pilot during this era.
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- 2023: Tom Reinert in the cockpit of an Alpha Jet, captured during his daily work with Top Aces, showcasing his continued passion for aviation.
Having worked across diverse cultures in aviation, what key lessons do you bring to your role?
Listening to customers is paramount. It’s not just about identifying their needs but about guiding them toward solutions they might not have considered—while respecting their methods. The key is maintaining a balance: you can’t tell them they’re wrong, but you can suggest better alternatives in a way that builds trust.
Your experience spans elementary to tactical training. How does this breadth of expertise influence NAFTA’s programs?
My time as an instructor pilot, particularly during my 22 years in the Luftwaffe, gave me insight into the different training levels required for varying roles. With defense budgets often constrained, I saw an opportunity for outsourced training to fill gaps. At NAFTA, we provide specialized programs that free up military and civil aviation resources for critical missions by delivering tailored and efficient training solutions.
Can you recall any enlightening moments from your test pilot career that shaped your views on flight safety?
In test flying, surprises are inevitable. A mentor once told me, “We don’t know what we don’t know,” which taught me to expect the unexpected. While modern simulations and historical data help mitigate risks, training must prepare for unknowns. At NAFTA, we focus on equipping pilots and engineers with the skills to handle both the predictable and the unforeseen, ensuring maximum preparedness.
NAFTA recently conducted training using the DESDEMONA simulator. Can you explain what makes DESDEMONA unique?
DESDEMONA is truly revolutionary. It’s more than a simulator; it’s a disorientation trainer and research lab capable of replicating scenarios no traditional aircraft or simulator can match. Its features include:
– Extended Motion Capabilities: Combining a centrifuge for sustained 3.3G loads with five additional degrees of freedom.
– Fully Gimbaled Cabin: Offering unlimited rotation across yaw, pitch, and roll axes.
– Linear and Vertical Motion: Allowing enhanced movement with an 8-meter linear track and 2-meter vertical heave.
The Spherical Washout motion algorithm ensures a seamless and realistic experience, making DESDEMONA indispensable for spatial disorientation training, advanced flight simulation, and research. Recently, German industry pilots trained with us to perform maneuvers that would be impossible—or too risky—in traditional simulators or aircraft.
What feedback do pilots give about DESDEMONA?
Initially, some trainees fear they might get airsick due to its centrifuge. However, after the sessions, the feedback is overwhelmingly positive. Pilots leave more confident, particularly in handling upset recovery scenarios—skills that could save lives in real-world situations.
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- DESDEMONA
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- DESDEMONA
How does NAFTA’s approach meet the evolving needs of the aviation industry?
Our programs are tailored to meet industry demands, whether it’s preparing pilots for high-risk Category 1 flight tests or supporting startups in the eVTOL sector. Many of these companies operate outside traditional regulatory frameworks due to their size, but safety remains paramount. We address this with modular training that combines online learning with hands-on simulations, ensuring flexibility and compliance.
Competency-Based Training and Assessment (CBTA) is central to NAFTA’s methodology. How does CBTA differ from traditional approaches?
CBTA focuses on outcomes, not hours. Unlike traditional methods that emphasize set durations or rigid curricula, CBTA identifies and develops the specific skills a professional needs to perform effectively. This means training is personalized, allowing trainees to progress at their own pace while addressing skill gaps in real-time. This approach is crucial in an industry where safety and adaptability are non-negotiable.
What role does technology play in NAFTA’s training?
Technology is at the core of everything we do. From leveraging advanced simulators like DESDEMONA to developing our proprietary systems, we ensure our trainees are equipped to handle the latest aviation challenges. For example, DESDEMONA enables maintenance check flight training and dynamic flight testing, while other simulators provide type-specific training.
How does NAFTA contribute to shaping aviation’s future?
We’re not just a training academy; we’re partners in innovation. Our collaboration with universities allows trainees to pursue academic credentials like a “Master of Flight Test,” while our involvement in regulatory workshops helps shape the future of aviation standards. By combining academic rigor with hands-on expertise, we’re preparing the next generation to excel in a rapidly evolving industry.
NAFTA’s strength lies not just in its innovative approach but in the expertise of its leadership team. While Tom Reinert brings a wealth of experience as a test pilot, chief pilot, and business leader, he is joined by two other aviation professionals who contribute significantly to the academy’s success. Gunnar Hasse, NAFTA’s CEO, is a highly experienced airline captain, instructor, and EASA senior examiner, ensuring the highest standards in training and operations. Tim Uellendahl, the academy’s COO, combines his role as a first officer and instructor to bring hands-on knowledge and practical insights to NAFTA’s programs. Together, this team is setting a new benchmark for aviation training excellence.
Looking ahead, what are NAFTA’s expansion plans?
Our strategy follows a “crawl, walk, run” philosophy. Currently, we focus on simulator-based and academic training programs. Once EASA approves our ATO certification, we’ll launch aircraft-based training, such as the Flight Test Instructor course. Flexibility remains a cornerstone—our partnerships with organizations allow us to customize offerings based on client needs.
What advice would you give aspiring aviation professionals considering NAFTA?
Stay curious and proactive. Our website, www.nafta.academy, is an excellent place to start. We offer online courses and tailor-made solutions to ensure every trainee receives the support they need to succeed.
As aviation evolves, so must its training methodologies. NAFTA exemplifies this evolution by blending advanced technology, client-centered customization, and unparalleled expertise. Under the leadership of professionals like Tom Reinert, the academy is not just responding to industry needs—it’s shaping them. From mastering DESDEMONA’s centrifuge to navigating the regulatory complexities of eVTOL testing, NAFTA ensures its trainees are prepared for anything aviation’s future holds.
Edited: Katerina Urbanova
Photo Credit: Tom Reinert, NAFTA
