b'62 OMA AIRFIELDDriving Simulator is Well Receivedat Omaha Eppley Airfield BY JODI RICHARDS In the old days, airside driverthat had experience with it, including training at Omaha Eppley AirfieldMinneapolis-St. Paul International (MSP), (OMA) consisted of videos, printedOrlando International (MCO) and Dallas Fort training materials, written and practicalWorth International (DFW). The project team exams, and a lot of on-the-job learning.also widened its research and investigated Annual recurrent training used the sameusers in other industries, too.methods. These days, a high-tech driving simulator is the Nebraska airports go-toKeeping It Realtool, and both management and trainees areMaking sure the simulated airfield thrilled with the $125,000 investment.environment would accurately represent We are very happywhat drivers would experience at OMA was a high priority. That was number one, FACTS&FIGURESwith how well thisrecalls Aubry. Important details included technology has fit into Project: Using Simulator for Airfield Driver Training our training culture,airfield layout, varying weather and visibility Location: Omaha Eppley Airfield, in NE says Operationsconditions, operating conditions and vehicle Airport Owner/Operator: Omaha Airport Authority Manager Matt Aubry,typepickup trucks, Aircraft Rescue and specifically highlightingFirefighting (ARFF) equipment, etc. System: ATVehicle Airside Driving Simulator, by UFA Inc. safety and efficiencyMATT AUBRY The ability to manipulate the Budget: $125,000 for development & deployment ofimprovements.environmentreplicating daytime/nighttime simulator (prices vary by airport & level of customization); additional expenses for training room & drivers cageOfficials at Omaha Airport Authorityor low-visibility conditions, for instanceUsers: 60-70 employees with airfield driving privileges began exploring ways to enhance OMAswas top-of-list as well. It really ties into Contract Awarded: April 2022 existing movement area training protocolcreating those conditions that can be in 2021 and deployed the new drivingstressful or challenging, and allowing a Simulator Deployed: Nov. 2022 simulator by late 2022.person to get experience and allow for Key Benefits: No disruption to airfield operationsmistakes but not be significant because or air traffic controllers for driver training; drivers canWhen the airport started homing in onits not happening in the real world, Aubry experience & practice stressful, challenging situationssimulator technology, Aubry and his teamexplains. without physical risk; reduces wear & tear on actualtook time to speak with other airports vehicles March | April 2025AirportImprovement.com'