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Simulator Use in Your Flight Training
If you've logged use of a simulator for part of your flight training take the time to make sure you're in compliance with what's approved by the FAA. I'll review this in your logbook before we begin the check ride, so here's a quick overview to help you make sure you've only logged the training time that's allowed.
Types of Training Devices:
Basic Aviation Training Device (BATD) - The BATD is a type of Aviation Training Device (ATD) and is similar to a PC flight simulator (like Microsoft) but has more enhanced hardware and software features. A BATD must be certified by the FAA to be used to log time for training (Private and Instrument only, no commercial or IPC), so time you spent on your home computer doesn't count. Here's the latest list of approved ATDs.
Advanced Aviation Training Device (AATD) - The AATD is also a type of Aviation Training Device (ATD). The FAA requires that AATDs be designed and built to higher standards than BATDs, and that they have a more realistic look and feel. They render realistic VFR and IFR conditions and have a separate instructor station. They can also simulate emergency procedures. Here's the latest list of approved ATDs.
Flight Training Device (FTD) - Designed to represent a specific aircraft configuration these devices frequently use an aircraft cockpit to support a more realistic training experience. FTDs are regulated under 14 CFR part 60 and may or may not include full motion.
Full Flight Simulator (FFS) - A FSS has full motion capability with visuals and aerodynamics, flight control characteristics, and ground handling characteristics that represent a specific make, model, and series of aircraft (think type rating).
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