Why should I train in flight simulator ?

 

Training in flight simulators save training time and expense. A student can train to proficiency in the simulator before transitioning to an aircraft. This makes the most of the actual aircraft training. The student does not spend more expensive aircraft rental time learning flight procedures and maneuvers. In addition, training can be accomplished anytime, even when the outside weather is bad, helping to eliminate gaps in training. A flight simulator allows a student to practice problem solving of aircraft systems and equipment failures and malfunctions safely , in controlled real life scenarios of adverse weather and day and night environments. If you make a mistake, training can be paused, backed up,discussed, reviewed and repeated. Safety is never compromised. A pilot, when exposed to repeated practice of adverse and emergency situations in a simulator, is most likely to respond correctly if it happens for real in an aircraft in flight.

 

Can I log simulator time ?

 

Yes. All simulator time can be logged. However, the FAA sets limits on how much simulator time can be applied towards a specific certificate or rating.

Under FAR part 61:

2.5 hours towards a private pilot certificate

50 hours towards a commercial pilot certificate

20 hours towards an instrument rating

25 hours towards an ATP

 

Under FAR part 141:

7 hours(35%) of 35 hours of flight training towards a private pilot certificate

17 hours(50%) of 35 hours of flight training towards an instrument rating

36 hours(30%) of 120 hours of flight training towards a commercial pilot certificate

10.5 hours(30%) of 25 hours of flight training towards a multi-engine rating

12.5 hours(50%) of 25 hours of flight training towards an ATP cerfificate

2.5 hours(10%) of 25 hours of flight training towards a flight instructor certificate

1.5 hours(10%) of 15 hours of flight training towards an instrument flight instructor rating.

 

Other:

Portions of Instrument practical test ( limited to maneuvers approved in the Instrument rating PTS).

All simulator time to meet 6 month instrument currency ( reference far part 61 ).

All simulator time to meet the requirements of the Instrument Proficiency Check, except takeoff and landing and the circle to land maneuver.

The flight portion of the Flight Review ( far 61.56 ), except takeoff and landing.

 

Is the simulator FAA approved ?

 

Yes, except for takeoff and landing and type ratings.

 

Can I train in my own aircraft type ?

 

Yes, if your aircraft is in the simulator database.

 

Is the simulator approved by my insurance company for training ?

 

Yes, if your aircraft is in the simulator database and/or the insurance company has approved a generic aircraft training for your aircraft.

 

Can I fly the simulator solo ?

 

Yes, once you have been checked out on the operation of the simulator. There is no limit on the number of hours you can fly the simulator for increasing skills and experience. However, if you want to count the simulator time towards a pilot certificate or rating, a flight instructor is required to be present.