New simulators, online courses change face of flight training
New technology and tactics are changing flight training against the backdrop of a declining pilot base, fewer student pilot starts and a shortage of flight

New technology and tactics are changing flight training against the backdrop of a declining pilot base, fewer student pilot starts and a shortage of flight instructors.

The biggest technological breakthrough of late has been the introduction of dynamic flight training devices (FTDs) that are now being incorporated into the curriculum for training on everything from Cessna 172s to the largest airliners. Several recent models, such as Frasca’s TruFlite models, are portable and can be easily transported to client locations for on-site learning. Online learning, although still in early development at several training companies and viewed skeptically by others, holds out the promise of affording continuous training and review through all stages of a pilot’s career, supplementing the gaps between formal visits to learning centers and simulators.

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