Flight Simulators in Spain
A device for each training stage
There are specific flight simulators for each stage in pilot’s training. Then, the different certifications establish the standards for the different devices, guaranteeing the compliance of the requirements needed to successfully overcome every training phase.
In this article, we will analyse the different stages to become a commercial pilot, studying the characteristics of the simulators used in each of them.
But before getting started, we will have a look on the certifications for flight simulators established by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).
The flight simulators types, or ‘Flight Simulation Training Device’ (FSTD) are defined in the ‘Certification Specifications’, or CS-FSTD (A) of EASA.
In this way, the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) establishes three main FSTD certification levels:
- FNPT (Flight Navigation and Procedures Trainer)
- FTD (Flight Training Device)
- FFS (Full Flight Simulator)
FNPT Simulators
They are fixed base flight simulators that can be used in all the training stages: from the initial flight phases until update courses, including basic emergency procedures, navigation, instruments or cabin cooperation. They are the most used during a commercial pilot training. They are versatile and very reliable.
Furthermore, if the FNPT simulator has a MCC certification, it means that it will be also used for a coordinated flight between pilot and copilot (MCC, Multi Crew Coordination).
So it is that until the moment to get the MCC, the pilot has only learnt to fly on the left side, as the sole captain. It is during this stage when they learn to coordinate actions and procedures during navigation; learning, that it is not possible to acquire in a FTD.
FTD Simulators
The FTD flight simulators are fixed base devices, although in this case, they simulate a specific type of aircraft. This characteristic then, makes that these devices are used for aircraft type rating formation.
The FTD flight simulators are used in the last training stages, focused on the preparation of the student for the airline selection processes. They are the perfect complement for the FNPT simulators; FNTP allows to simulate the navigation meanwhile the FTD are to practice particular procedures.
FFS Simulators
The FFS flight simulators, as well as the previous ones, reproduce a particular type of aircraft, with the distinctive feature that it incorporates a moving base that provides movement and vibration. It has a higher level of technical complexity and can be used for the same trainings as in a FTD flight simulator.
After more than 20 years designing and developing EASA and FAA certified flight simulators, Alsim has become one of the leading flight simulator manufacturers in the world. The ALSIM ALX FNPT II A320 is also used by airlines such as Nikki Air for pilot recruitment.
Certifications of Alsim ALX simulator
Our ALSIM ALX simulator can be used for most training courses thanks to its three certifications (SEP, MEP and MCC). New students with no experience receive training to reach the standard level of an ATPL Licence.
Our simulator’s avionics technology and flight instruments ensure easy immersion and familiarisation with digital cockpits. Simulators are an essential tool to learn decision-making in the most adverse conditions possible.
Avionics of our Alsim ALX
The American manufacturer of advanced simulators Redbird has been providing innovative solutions for pilot training since 2006.
With the acquisition of this new Full Motion XWind Simulator for Crosswind of Redbird, unique in Europe, we want to complement the general training, with the specific skills that the Xwind provides, to expand the knowledge and skills of our cadets, in crosswind landings and turbulence.
