What is a flight training device (FTD), and how is it used in pilot training?
A flight training device (FTD) is a regulator-qualified, ground-based cockpit replica used to practise procedures, systems operation and instrument flying. In real-world pilot training, it lets pilots repeat normal, abnormal and emergency tasks safely; only training completed in an approved device and programme can count towards a licence, rating or proficiency requirement.
What makes a simulator an FTD?
FTD is a formal qualification category, not simply another name for a home flight simulator. An FTD reproduces the relevant cockpit layout, controls, instruments and systems of an aircraft type or class. Its software models aircraft behaviour closely enough for the tasks authorised at its qualification level.
An FTD is normally fixed-base: motion is not required, although a visual system may be fitted. Some devices represent a particular aircraft and avionics fit, while others represent a broader aircraft class. Our explanation of simulator hardware, software and regulatory qualification covers the wider hierarchy.
FAA-qualified FTDs use the Part 60 framework and may be assigned Levels 4 through 7. Other authorities use different FSTD categories and specifications, so an FAA level should not be treated as an automatic equivalent elsewhere. The device's qualification certificate, approved configuration and permitted training tasks matter more than the label painted on its enclosure.
| Device | Typical characteristics | Training credit |
|---|---|---|
| Home flight simulator | Consumer controls, screens and simulation software | Normally no formal credit unless the complete installation has separate regulatory approval |
| Approved ATD or basic trainer | A lower-category training system approved under the relevant authority's rules | Limited credit for specified tasks |
| FTD | Full-size relevant cockpit controls, qualified systems and flight modelling; motion not required | Credit permitted by the applicable rule or approved course |
| Full-flight simulator | Aircraft-specific cockpit with qualified visual and motion systems | The broadest simulator credit, still subject to programme approval |
How are FTDs used in pilot training?
FTDs are most effective when a lesson requires accurate procedures, repeatability or failures that would be costly or unsafe to reproduce in an aircraft.
- Instrument training: radio navigation, intercepts, holds, instrument approaches, missed approaches and instrument scan.
- Cockpit procedures: checklists, flows, avionics setup, automation management and standard operating procedures.
- Abnormal and emergency training: system failures, rejected starts, electrical faults, engine problems and decision-making under pressure.
- Crew training: communication, task sharing, briefings, call-outs and crew resource management.
- Recurrent training and checking: repeatable scenarios conducted to defined tolerances without consuming aircraft time.
An FTD is especially useful for IFR lessons because the instructor can place the aircraft near a fix, alter weather, introduce a failure and repeat the same approach. Our practical IFR simulator workflow shows the sort of preparation, avionics setup and missed-approach practice involved.
What happens during an FTD session?
- Confirm the lesson and permitted credit. The instructor checks that the device, aircraft configuration and exercise are authorised for the intended course or regulatory requirement.
- Set the cockpit correctly. Aircraft mass, fuel, weather, navigation data, equipment state and starting position must match the scenario. A configuration mismatch can teach the wrong procedure.
- Brief the objectives. The trainee should know the operating role, expected tolerances, failure policy and when the instructor may pause or reposition the device.
- Fly the scenario normally. The pilot uses the same checklists, call-outs and workload management expected in the aircraft rather than treating the session like a computer game.
- Repeat the weak segment. Freeze, reposition and reset functions allow focused practice, but they should be used after the pilot completes the immediate decision or checklist sequence.
- Debrief and record the session. The instructor reviews procedural errors, flight-path control and decisions, then records the training in the form required by the authority or approved programme.
Does FTD time count towards a pilot licence?
FTD time counts only where a regulation or approved training programme specifically allows it. The permitted amount depends on the qualification sought, the device level, aircraft representation, exercise, training organisation and national authority.
A qualified device does not by itself make every session creditable. Instructor supervision or endorsement may be required, the device's qualification must be valid, and the exercise must fall within its approved scope. Device time is normally recorded as simulator or FSTD time rather than flight time in an actual aircraft; pilots should use the logbook columns and wording required by their authority.
A common mistake is choosing a convincing cockpit replica and assuming its hours count. Before paying for credit-bearing training, verify the device's qualification, the approved course and the exact limit that applies to the licence, rating or proficiency check.
Can an FTD replace training in a real aircraft?
An FTD can replace authorised parts of a syllabus, but it does not reproduce every lesson an aircraft provides. Fixed-base devices cannot fully recreate sustained acceleration, control forces, peripheral cues, turbulence, environmental pressure or the consequences of operating on a real runway.
This makes an FTD excellent for procedures, instrument work and systems knowledge, but aircraft training remains necessary wherever the rules or learning objective demand real handling and operational experience. The proportion varies greatly between initial private-pilot training, instrument courses and airline programmes; our overview of where simulation fits into a complete pilot-training syllabus explains those broader uses.
What mistakes reduce the value of FTD training?
- Using the wrong avionics or software configuration: match the device to the aircraft and procedures the trainee will actually use.
- Over-controlling because the control feel differs: trim properly, use measured inputs and judge performance against instruments and tolerances rather than force alone.
- Pausing at every error: allow the immediate situation to develop far enough to test recognition and decision-making, then reset for focused practice.
- Skipping normal cockpit discipline: use real checklists, call-outs and briefings even when the instructor can reset the scenario instantly.
- Assuming a higher FTD level guarantees more credit: qualification level describes capability; the governing rule and approved course determine what can be credited.