Flight Simulation Training Devices (FSTD)

Flight simulation systems are a vital component of modern pilot training programmes. The systems enable pilots to practice complex procedures and train for emergency situations and flight maneuvers in realistic conditions that do not involve any actual risk. Flight simulation training devices (FSTDs) are categorized into various levels because their operational purposes and capabilities, and therefore their certification, differ. This overview explains what an FSTD is, the differences between EASA and FAA standards, and how essential simulator time really is for flight training.

What is a Flight Simulation Training Device?

Flight Simulation Training Devices (FSTDs) are a category of synthetic training equipment used by pilots as part of their training. The equipment provides a simulation of different flight aspects, from basic aircraft control to complex system operations.

FSTDs can simulate a variety of aircraft systems, including avionics, instruments, flight controls, control forces and engine sounds. Higher-level devices, most often used by airlines, are even equipped with motion systems to replicate physical sensations during flight.

Flight Simulation Training Device vs. Simulator

While all FSTDs are simulators, not all simulators are FSTDs.

To be classified as an official FSTD, a device must meet stringent technical and regulatory standards set by the relevant aviation authority—such as EASA or the FAA. Only certified FSTDs may be used in formal flight training and for logging time toward pilot licenses or ratings.

The term “simulator” is often used more broadly, especially in the entertainment sector (e.g. home simulators). These do not meet certification requirements and are not approved for use in licensed pilot training.

Another key distinction lies in purpose and perception: professional flight crews are trained to understand the limitations of simulated environments and to distinguish clearly between simulation and real flight. In contrast, users of entertainment simulators typically seek maximum immersion and realism.

Does FSTD time count towards flight experience?

In many licensing and recency scenarios, time spent in an FSTD can be credited under certain conditions. However, such credit is often limited by device level and maximum allowable hours.

For example, in regions under EASA jurisdiction, the three take-offs and landings for PAX recency under FCL.060 (b) (1) may also be performed on FFS:

"Aeroplanes, helicopters, powered-lift aircraft and airships. A pilot shall not operate an aircraft in commercial air transport or to carry passengers: as PIC or co-pilot unless he/she has carried out, in the preceding 90 days, at least 3 take-offs, approaches and landings in an aircraft of the same type or class or an FFS representing that type or class.[...]"

FSTD time must always be logged separately from real flight time. It does not count toward total flight experience unless explicitly permitted by the applicable regulation.

With capzlog.aero, flight and sim entries are automatically recognized as their respective category and imported into their own, separated flight book.

What levels of FSTDs are there? (EASA)

In regions under EASA jurisdiction, the following levels can be distinguished:

  • Basic Instrument Training Device (BITD)
  • Flight and Navigation Procedures Trainer (FNPT):
    • FNPT Level I
    • FNPT Level II (/+MCC)
    • FNPT Level III (for helicopters only)
  • Flight Training Device (FTD):
    • FTD Level 1
    • FTD Level 2
    • FTD Level 3
  • Full Flight Simulator (FFS):
    • FFS Level A
    • FFS Level B
    • FFS Level C
    • FFS Level D

BITD: Basic Instrument Training Device

A BITD is the most basic EASA-approved training device. It does not replicate a specific aircraft type, nor does it include a motion system. It is typically a generic setup used to train fundamental instrument procedures and navigation, often presented as a desktop or fixed-base solution with simple controls.

FNPT: Flight and Navigation Procedures Trainer

FNPTs simulate an aircraft’s cockpit environment and are used to train procedural tasks and navigation. They represent a type or class of aircraft through a combination of hardware and software, but do not necessarily include motion or force-feedback systems.

FTD: Flight Training Device

An FTD is a high-fidelity replica of an aircraft’s cockpit and systems. It includes specific panels, instruments, and controls for a particular aircraft type. Higher-level FTDs (especially for helicopters) may include visual systems, but not necessarily full motion.

FFS: Full Flight Simulator

An FFS is the highest level of simulation device. It includes a full-scale cockpit replica, aircraft-specific systems and software, an external visual system, and a control force feedback system. FFS Level D represents the highest standard and is suitable for all phases of flight training, including zero-flight-time training (ZFTT).

FSTD FFS Level D

What levels of FSTDs are there? (FAA)

Under FAA regulations, the following device categories exist:

  • Aviation Training Device (ATD):
    • Basic Aviation Training Device (BATD)
    • Advanced Aviation Training Device (AATD)
  • Flight Training Device (FTD):
    • (FTD Level 1/2/3: no longer issued, various grandfathered devices still exist)
    • FTD Level 4: basic cockpit procedures trainer, often using a touch screen
    • FTD Level 5: aircraft class specific
    • FTD Level 6: high fidelity, aircraft specific, specific aerodynamic modelling
    • FTD Level 7: helicopter only, all controls & systems modelled
  • Full Flight Simulator (FFS):
    • FFS Level A
    • FFS Level B
    • FFS Level C
    • FFS Level D

ATD: Aviation Training Device

The FAA defines ATD in AC 61-136A (1) (a) as follows:

“An ATD is a training device […] that has been evaluated, qualified, and approved by the Administrator. In general, this includes a replica of aircraft instruments, equipment, panels, and controls in an open flight deck area or an enclosed aircraft cockpit. […]”

BATD is the lowest category of FAA-approved training devices and typically does not represent any specific aircraft type or class nor does it include any motion systems but provides a basic open flight deck cockpit environment with flight controls, avionics and instrument panels that mimic real aircraft systems. It is used as an early-staged pilot training to practice flight procedures, instrument navigation and decision making.

An AATD is a more advanced training device that provides a higher level of realism than a BATD. Although it still lacks a motion system, it is typically more aircraft specific and has a more immersive flight deck environment. An AATD is used for more in-depth pilot training, allowing for greater procedural fidelity, instrument navigation practice, and scenario-based training, leading to its use in both initial and recurrent flight training.

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