How is the sim different than Microsoft Flight Simulator?
The sim is an FAA-accredited training device. Unlike Microsoft Flight Simulator, time spent in the sim with a qualified flight instructor can be logged.

Does the sim move like a real plane?
No, you are probably thinking of the big simulators that are used by the airlines. The older term for the smaller stationary training devices was FTD, standing for "flight training device." Our sim is technically called an "advanced aviation training device", abbreviated as an AATD by the FAA. Elite refers to this particular model as an RC1 AATD.

Does it count towards flight time?
No, time logged in the sim cannot be counted as flight time. It is logged as FTD (or simulator) time and also as dual received. The flight instructor logs it as dual given and FTD (or simulator) time, but not as flight time.

Do I have to have an instructor with me?
In order to use the sim and log the time, you must be working with a certified flight instructor.

How much time can be counted towards an instrument rating?
20 hours of time spent in an AATD with a qualified flight instructor may be counted towards the minimum of 40 hours required for an instrument rating being pursued under Part 61.

Is it only useful for instrument work?
Not at all. It has many other uses, including GPS and autopilot training, as well as multi-engine training. It can even be used for part of the requirements for the private pilot license, although it cannot be used to fulfill the three hours of hood time required for the PPL. See our page on advantages of the sim.

Can it be used for instrument currency?
Yes, it is approved for the approaches and holding required to maintain instrument currency. It can also be used for an Instrument Proficiency Check (IPC) The circling approach is accomplished by using a timing technique.

Does it have different aircraft models?
Yes, it has several different aircraft models for both single-engine and multi-engine training. These are listed on the aircraft models page. You may not see your particular aircraft model listed, but the performance characteristics of most general aviation aircraft can be simulated with the listed set of models. The sim can be quickly switched between aircraft models and has the appropriate throttle quadrants for both single-engine and multi-engine training. It can even be configured as a King Air.

What are the big advantages of sim training?
In a nutshell, sim training is the most cost-effective tool available to a pilot today. An expanded discussion of the advantages of sim training is available at advantages of sim training. The major advantages are

  • Teaching scan, both initial and remedial
  • Ability to realistically fail instruments
  • Ability to freeze everything in order to discuss what is happening.
  • Training scenarios that are not possible in a plane due to safety considerations, such as failing an engine at very low altitude.
  • Ability to reposition a student to repeat an exercise, such as an approach.
  • Time effective -- a lesson that would take three hours or more in a plane can be done in a hour or so in the sim.
  • Low cost! It is half the cost of renting a single-engine plane and a quarter the cost of renting a multi-engine plane.

CSC DUATS An Alaskan Journal Links to other blogs Contact Us ADDS Weather North Star Flyers A Flight Instructor's Journal Video Clips Packages ADDS weather Our location Contact us Elite Simulator On-Line Schedule Our history Home



Copyright © Linda Dowdy, 2007-2008