April 1,2008: Finland is opening a pilot training school for use by the Finnish Air Force, and trainees from other countries. The Nordic Pilot Training Centre (NPTC) is being managed by Patria, a Finnish military supplier, and staffed by civilians, as well as personnel from the Finnish Air Force. The school will use Hawk trainers, as well as flight simulators, and will teach NATO standard flying skills. The NPTC aims to offer flight training more cheaply than air forces can do it on their own. While NATO countries will be the main customers, other nations will be offered these training services as well. For many small nations, that buy high performance aircraft, the NPTC would be a cheaper, and higher quality alternative to setting up their own flight school. The NPTC will be open for business in two years.