Certification types
There are four main types of certification to differentiate the simulator qualification level: BITD, FNPT, FTD and FFS. Some of these are also further divided into relevant subcategories. Therefore we can distinguish FNPT I, II and II/MCC, FTD 1 and 2, FFS A, B, C and D categories.
The general specification of each of the main certification categories is presented below:
There are four main types of certification to differentiate the simulator qualification level: BITD, FNPT, FTD and FFS. Some of these are also further divided into relevant subcategories. Therefore we can distinguish FNPT I, II and II/MCC, FTD 1 and 2, FFS A, B, C and D categories.
The general specification of each of the main certification categories is presented below:
Basic Instrument Training Device (BITD) - means a ground-based training device which represents the student pilot's station of a class of aeroplanes. It may use screen based instrument panels and spring loaded flight controls, providing a training platform for at least the procedural aspects of instrument flight.
Flight and Navigation Procedures Trainer (FNPT) - means a training device which represents the flight deck/cockpit environment including the assemblage of equipment and computer programmes necessary to represent an aircraft or class of aeroplane in flight operations to the extent that the systems appear to function as in an aircraft. It is in compliance with the minimum standards for a specific FNPT level of qualification.
Flight Training Device (FTD) - means a full size replica of a specific aircraft type's instruments, equipment, panels and controls in an open flight deck/cockpit area or an enclosed aircraft flight deck/cockpit, including the assemblage of equipment and computer software programmes necessary to represent the aircraft in ground and flight conditions to the extent of the systems installed in the device. It does not require a force cueing motion or visual system. It is in compliance with the minimum standards for a specific FTD level of qualification.
Full Flight Simulator (FFS) - means a full size replica of a specific type or make, model and series aircraft flight deck/cockpit, including the assemblage of all equipment and computer programmes necessary to represent the aeroplane in ground and flight operations, a visual system providing an out of the flight deck/cockpit view, and a force cueing motion system. It is in compliance with the minimum standards for FFS qualification.
Choosing the right simulator certification level is extremely important. It defines the scope of the simulator training to be conducted and the number of hours that can be conducted within that training.
Each time before purchasing a simulator we recommend consultation with your local CAA to discuss the possibility of using given class of simulator in training, its scope and to prepare necessary documents including suitably revised training program.