“I asked my instructor if there was a simulator to help with training. He said no, and I thought—someone should invent that,” said Chris.
So, in 2001, in his backyard shed, Ryan Aerospace was born.
Using a modified gaming joystick, some rudimentary welding and an office chair, Chris built a simple helicopter simulator. The results spoke for themselves. When he returned to his next flight lesson, his instructor was stunned at his progress and encouraged him to create a commercial version.
His first customer? The Royal Air Force in the UK.
Top gong: The Ryan Aerospace team with their 2024 Premier of Queensland Export after taking out the Advanced Technologies category.
Leading the way in helicopter simulation
While helicopter simulators were not new, Ryan Aerospace revolutionised the market with an innovative, affordable and reconfigurable system. The Ryan Aerospace Helimod series was designed to adapt to different helicopter types, offering a flexible training solution for pilots worldwide.
The company then took a major leap with virtual reality (VR), setting itself apart in a rapidly evolving industry.
“When we started, there was nobody doing what we did. We were first to market and quickly gained the interest of major players,” Chris said.
Today, Ryan Aerospace supplies simulation technology to military, law enforcement agencies and emergency services worldwide, helping pilots train more effectively and affordably.
Queensland’s aerospace sector has become a powerhouse, home to over 300 aviation and aerospace enterprises, with more than 18,400 jobs in aviation-related sectors.
In 2024, Queensland's Aircraft Manufacturing and Repair Services sector reported exports of $199 million—a 63% increase from the previous year.
A Queensland export success story
The journey from start-up to global exporter
hasn’t been easy, but Ryan Aerospace has stayed the course.
“Exporting is a tricky business,” Chris said. “I’m about to head off on my 74th overseas trade show—we’ve had to keep chipping away.”
How TIQ helped Ryan Aerospace soar
Chris credits TIQ for playing a key role in the company’s growth. “They helped me secure grant funding in 2018, which allowed me to hire my first employee. That was a game-changer," he said.
TIQ’s global network has also been a major asset.
“They have teams on the ground in key export markets, ready to connect you with potential clients and even offer office space while you’re overseas,” said Chris.
Thinking about exporting?
For Queensland businesses considering international expansion, Chris has one clear message: “Get in touch with TIQ. They will help you.”
With Queensland’s aerospace sector booming and companies like Ryan Aerospace leading the way, the state continues to cement its reputation as a major hub in the Asia-Pacific region.
Is your business ready to unlock global markets? Learn more about your future export success through TIQ.
Whether you are an experienced exporter looking to expand your global footprint or a new exporter starting your journey, TIQ can help you scale your business internationally.