Based at Helicopters Otago Ltd, in Mosgiel, the extension to the back of the facility aims to make more room for the HEMS (Helicopter Emergency Medical Service) medics and pilots.
Helicopters Otago Ltd managing director Graeme Gale said part of the space was designated for a state-of-the-art, world-class Entrol flight simulator, built in Madrid, Spain.
"The simulator is a very big deal.
"It’s the only one of its kind south of Japan — the only one like it in the southern hemisphere.
"It’s the very latest of flight simulators for pilot training and advancement, to increase capability and safety.
"It’s just like you’re in the real thing — full graphics, full motion.
"You don’t know the difference between the helicopter or the simulator — that’s how good it is."
Mr Gale said the new facility was not just for Helicopters Otago staff.
It was for crews and pilots throughout New Zealand and the South Pacific.
The construction work was being done by Calder Stewart in a way that allows the rescue helicopters to stay 100% operational, he said.
"We have to operate 24/7.
"All credit to them, there’s been very little disruption to us, considering the scale of the operation."
He said staff were very excited about the development.
"It’s just nice to be able to give people enough space to operate properly and operate to the best of their ability."
