Miller Valentine Construction has completed its third project at FlightSafety International’s Columbus facility, building on a relationship that dates back to 1999. The latest expansion added 30,000 square feet to accommodate six new flight simulators, bringing the facility’s total capacity to 20 simulators.

The project also featured new classrooms, briefing rooms, and support spaces to serve the growing demand for pilot training, particularly from companies like NetJets, which operates one of the largest private air fleets in the world.

The project presented unique challenges given its location adjacent to Columbus Airport and the facility’s round-the-clock operations.

Miller Valentine managed all design aspects, introducing innovative solutions like an exposed ceiling structure that replaces traditional drop ceilings. This industrial design approach creates a more contemporary aesthetic and simplifies maintenance and access to mechanical systems. The team brought in specialized consultants to evaluate the acoustical implications of this design change, which could become a standard feature in future FlightSafety facilities.

Other challenges included coordinating complex mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems for the sophisticated simulator equipment, managing material deliveries and crane operations on a tight site, and working through the permitting process with airport authorities.