Professional pilots, especially those working for commercial airlines, train using professional flight simulators that accurately replicate real flight conditions. These advanced devices allow pilots to practice maneuvers, procedures, and emergency situations without risking lives or aircraft. In this guide, we explore which simulators they use, how they are designed, and the different types available based on their purpose.
What is a professional flight simulator?
D
efinition and Main Components
A professional flight simulator is a highly advanced technological system that faithfully reproduces the experience of flying an aircraft. It is specifically designed for pilot training in flight simulators, both during initial stages and recurrent training sessions.
Its main components include:
- Realistic cockpit: An exact replica of aircraft models such as the Airbus flight simulator, Boeing flight simulator, or ATR FFS, featuring all operational controls.
- Immersive visual system: Panoramic screens simulating real environments with 180° or 360° views.
- Motion platform: Recreates accelerations, turbulence, and maneuvers.
- Avionics and navigation systems: Identical to those found in real aircraft.
- Instructor station: Enables control of the training environment, introduction of failures, and performance evaluation.
This type of simulator is considered the most realistic flight simulator available in the aviation industry.
Types of flight Simulators by use
Flight simulators are mainly classified into two categories:
- Full Flight Simulator (FFS): The most comprehensive and officially certified for professional training. They include motion, surround sound, and high-fidelity visuals. Used for type ratings and recurrent training. Common examples include A320 FFS, B737 FFS, ATR 500, and ATR 600 FFS.
- Flight Training Device (FTD): Simpler simulators without motion platforms but equipped with realistic cockpits and visual systems. Ideal for procedure training, navigation, and certification preparation. Common models include VPT and FNPT.
Both types are essential for airline pilot training in flight simulators and are used in specialized centers such as Global Training Aviation, which offers professional flight simulators for airline pilots in Spain and worldwide.
Why do pilots train in flight Simulators?
The use of professional flight simulators in pilot training is not only common but essential. These advanced devices allow pilots to train in controlled, safe, and highly realistic environments, improving their readiness for any situation that may arise during a real flight.
Safety and risk reduction
One of the main reasons for training in flight simulators for pilot education is safety. In these virtual environments, instructors can simulate technical failures, adverse weather conditions, or medical emergencies without putting human lives or real aircraft at risk.
Simulator-based pilot training enables the repetition of complex maneuvers, practice of landings under extreme conditions, and real-time decision-making. This significantly reduces risks during actual flights and enhances the pilot’s ability to respond to unexpected events.
Training in extreme conditions
Full Flight Simulators (FFS) and Flight Training Devices (FTD) allow the recreation of scenarios that would be impossible or dangerous to practice in real flight: thunderstorms, engine failures, forced landings, and more.
Thanks to advanced technology in simulators such as the A320 FFS, B737 FFS, or ATR FFS, pilots can train under extreme conditions with complete safety. This type of preparation is crucial for airline pilots, who must be ready to face any situation during operations.
Improving efficiency and reducing costs
Beyond safety, the use of flight simulators in Spain and worldwide helps optimize resources. Training in simulators reduces operational costs by avoiding the use of real aircraft, fuel, and airspace.
Centers like Global Training Aviation offer airline pilot training programs with flight simulators, enabling intensive, efficient, and cost-effective practice. This benefits both airlines and pilots, who gain access to more training hours in less time.
Main Flight Simulators used by pilots
Pilots, especially those working for commercial airlines, train in certified simulators that accurately replicate real flight conditions. The most widely used are Full Flight Simulators (FFS) and Flight Training Devices (FTD), each with specific features depending on the type of training required.
Full Flight Simulator (FFS)
The Full Flight Simulator (FFS) is the most advanced and comprehensive type of simulator. It is certified for official training and type ratings. Key features include:
- Realistic cockpit with all functional controls
- High-definition immersive visual system
- Motion platform with six degrees of freedom
- Environmental sound simulating flight conditions
This simulator allows pilot training in flight simulators under extreme conditions, simulating technical failures, adverse weather, and emergency procedures.
Flight Training Device (FTD)
The Flight Training Device (FTD), as mentioned earlier, is simpler and mainly used for:
- Procedure training prior to FFS sessions
- Navigation and communication practice
- Preparation for theoretical and practical exams
Although it does not offer the same level of immersion as an FFS, the FTD is an effective and economical tool for pilot training in flight simulators, especially during initial stages.
Most common simulator models used by airlines
Airlines typically use simulators specific to the aircraft they operate. The most common models include:
- A320 FFS: Used by airlines operating the Airbus A320, one of the most popular short- and medium-haul aircraft.
- B737 FFS: Boeing 737 simulator, widely used by airlines worldwide.
- ATR FFS: ATR 72 simulator, ideal for regional flights.
Flight Simulators in pilot training
Pilot training in flight simulators is an essential part of the professional training process. Thanks to technological advancements, simulators can accurately replicate all phases of flight—from engine start-up to landings under extreme conditions. This methodology ensures that pilots are prepared to operate safely and efficiently in any situation.
Training stages
Simulator training is divided into several stages, adapted to the pilot’s experience level and the type of aircraft they will operate. These stages include:
- Cockpit familiarization: Using a Flight Training Device (FTD) to learn systems and controls.
- Normal procedures: Practicing takeoffs, landings, navigation, and communication.
- Abnormal and emergency procedures: Training in a Full Flight Simulator (FFS) to simulate technical failures, adverse weather, and critical decision-making.
- Recurrent evaluations: Periodic simulations to maintain type rating and comply with safety standards.
Emergency procedure simulation
One of the greatest advantages of pilot training in flight simulators is the ability to practice emergency situations without real-world risks. Instructors can simulate:
- Engine failures
- Onboard fires
- Cabin depressurization
- Forced landings under adverse conditions
These scenarios are carried out in simulators such as the A320 FFS, B737 FFS, or ATR FFS, providing an immersive and realistic experience. This type of training improves pilots’ reaction capabilities and strengthens decision-making under pressure.
Collaboration and cockpit crew coordination
Beyond technical skills, simulators promote teamwork within the cockpit. Pilots train alongside copilots and instructors, developing communication, coordination, and leadership skills.
Crew collaboration is key to ensuring flight safety. This training is especially important in commercial aviation, where every decision must be coordinated and executed precisely.
What is the most realistic flight simulator?
The most realistic flight simulator is the Full Flight Simulator (FFS). It is considered the highest standard because it:
- Faithfully replicates the cockpit of real aircraft such as the A320 FFS, B737 FFS, or ATR FFS
- Includes a motion platform simulating accelerations, turbulence, and maneuvers
- Offers a high-definition immersive visual system
- Enables training in both normal and emergency procedures with complete accuracy
FAQs
What simulators do airline pilots use?
Airline pilots primarily train in Full Flight Simulators (FFS), such as the A320 FFS, B737 FFS, or ATR FFS, which provide an immersive experience and are certified for official training. They also use Flight Training Devices (FTD) for procedure and navigation practice, especially in the early stages of type rating.
What is the best simulator for new pilots?
For new pilots training on commercial aircraft, the best simulator depends on the type of aircraft they will operate. Recommended models include:
- A320 FFS: Ideal for Airbus A320 training, common in short- and medium-haul flights.
- B737 FFS: Perfect for pilots preparing to fly the Boeing 737, widely used by airlines worldwide.
- ATR FFS: Recommended for regional flight training with turboprop aircraft like the ATR 72.
How much does a professional flight simulator cost?
The price of a professional flight simulator varies by model and realism level. A Full Flight Simulator can cost between €8 and €15 million, while an FTD is significantly less expensive. Centers like Global Training Aviation provide access to these simulators without the need to purchase them.
