FSTD (Flight Simulation Training Device)
FSTD (Flight Simulation Training Device). FSTD is the FAA's umbrella term for Flight Simulation Training Devices — full-flight simulators (FFS), flight training devices (FTD), and aviation training devices (ATD). Each tier is qualified by the FAA for specific training credit (Level A through Level D for FFS).
Definition
Part 142 training centers operate FSTDs to deliver training that would otherwise require an actual aircraft. The FAA qualifies each device individually, and the qualification level (Level A → D for FFS, Level 4 → 7 for FTD) determines what kinds of training credit the FAA will accept from sessions on that device. A center's scheduling software has to know which device is qualified for which training event, because scheduling a Level 5 FTD for a maneuver that requires Level D credit is a compliance failure.
The qualification levels in practice
Level D FFS: full motion, full visual, near-perfect fidelity — qualifies for zero-flight-time (ZFT) initial type ratings. Level C FFS: similar but lower visual fidelity, common for recurrent. Level B and A: progressively less. Level 6 / 7 FTD: high-fidelity but typically without full motion. Level 4 / 5 FTD: device trainers for procedure work. Each tier accepts different training events.
Qualification-aware scheduling
A scheduling system that doesn't check device qualification before booking a session is a compliance risk. Software built for Part 142 should let the FAA-approved curriculum define which device qualifications are eligible for each event, and reject mismatches at booking time.
Recurring qualification audits
FSTDs are re-qualified by the FAA annually (or more often for higher-tier devices). The qualification document expires; the software has to track expiry and block scheduling on a device whose qualification has lapsed.
See also
- Part 142 training center — Part 142 ATO
- Check instructor (TCE/APD) — Check instructor
- Part 142 curriculum approval — Curriculum approval
Roffik's take
The platform for FAA-approved Part 142 training centers — simulator scheduling, FAA compliance records, client-account billing, and SWIFT wire reconciliation. Learn more about AviationAlley.