MAB Academy Simulator Building

The New MAB Academy Simulator Building is a state-of-the-art aviation training and simulation facility developed to meet the stringent operational and technical requirements of modern flight training. The new MAB Academy Simulator Building location is strategically situated at the South Support Zone, Sepang within close proximity of KLIA Terminal 1, enhancing accessibility and operational integration with Malaysia’s primary aviation hub. The facility currently houses six advanced full-flight simulator bays, including simulators for the Airbus A330neo, Boeing 737-800NG, and ATR 72-500 aircraft types which are currently operated within Malaysia Aviation Group’s (MAG) airline portfolio as well as additional specialised training simulators with future plans covering the Boeing 737-8 Full Flight Simulator. Architecturally, the building adopts a contemporary yet functional design that integrates form with engineering efficiency. The development represents a significant upgrade from the original Malaysia Airlines Berhad Academy (MABA) facility in Kelana Jaya, Selangor, and is expected to reinforce MABA’s position as a regional centre of excellence for aviation and hospitality training. A key feature of the development is the inclusion of a cabin emergency evacuation trainer and a dedicated water survival training pool equipped with wave-generation systems, making it the first aviation-specific water survival training facility of its kind in Malaysia. The simulator building comprises two above-ground storeys with an additional sub-basement level, accommodating technical plant rooms, support spaces, and building services infrastructure.

Technical Description

EDP Consulting Group Sdn. Bhd. was appointed as the Civil, Structural, and Geotechnical Engineering Consultant for the new MAB Academy Simulator Building development which also includes the upgrading and restoration of the existing Malaysia Airlines Berhad Academy (MABA) facility. The new MAB Academy Simulator Building’s structural system is predominantly composed of reinforced concrete, selected for its robustness, durability, and ability to accommodate heavy simulator loads and stringent serviceability criteria. The roof structure consists of a prefabricated structural steel system, providing structural efficiency while facilitating faster construction and seamless integration with mechanical and electrical services. The building is founded on reinforced concrete square piles, designed to transfer structural loads to competent bearing strata and to control total and differential settlements within acceptable limits. The foundation system was engineered to accommodate the substantial imposed loads from simulator equipment, superimposed dead loads, and dynamic operational effects.

Project Highlights, Achievement and Recognition:

• First aviation training centre in Malaysia to receive the Green Building Index (GBI) certification.
• This building houses Southeast Asia’s first Airbus A330neo full-flight simulator.