Flight Simulation Training Devices (FSTD)

Flight Simulation Training Devices (FSTDs) are an essential part of modern pilot training. They enable pilots to develop and maintain competencies in a safe, controlled and cost-effective environment while supporting the highest levels of aviation safety.

EASA develops and maintains the European regulatory framework for the qualification and use of FSTDs for aeroplanes and helicopters. This framework supports training organisations, operators, manufacturers and authorities while enabling innovation in simulation technologies.

A New Era for Flight Simulation

In 2026, EASA introduced a new regulatory framework for the qualification of FSTDs and their use through Regulation (EU) 2026/781, together with associated Acceptable Means of Compliance (AMC), Guidance Material (GM) and the new Certification Specifications for Flight Simulation Training Devices (CS-FSTD Issue 1).

The new framework represents the most significant evolution of FSTD qualification in Europe in decades. It moves from a traditional qualification system based on fixed device types and levels to a more flexible capability-based approach that reflects the actual technical capabilities of each device.

This change creates a future-proof framework that supports technological innovation while maintaining robust safety and training standards.

▶ FSTD Capability Signature (FCS)

At the heart of the new framework is the FSTD Capability Signature (FCS).

The FCS is a standardised description of an FSTD's technical capabilities using a combination of defined FSTD features and fidelity levels. Together, these elements provide a complete picture of the capabilities of a training device.

This approach allows authorities, training organisations and operators to assess and use simulation devices based on what they can actually do rather than on a predefined qualification category.

▶Benefits of the FCS Approach

The FCS framework:

  • provides greater flexibility in FSTD qualification by better reflecting actual simulator capabilities;
  • creates a scalable framework capable of supporting technological innovation;
  • enables more efficient matching of training needs to simulator capabilities.

 

▶Supporting New Technologies

The new framework has been specifically designed to accommodate advances in simulation technology.

For the first time, European FSTD qualification standards include provisions for:

  • touchscreen-based flight deck interfaces;
  • extended reality (XR) technologies;
  • innovative training devices that may not fit within traditional simulator categories.

This ensures that new technologies can be introduced into pilot training within a clear and harmonised regulatory framework.

▶Task-to-Tool Training Methodology

The new regulation also introduces the optional task-to-tool methodology for aeroplane and helicopter type rating training and operator recurrent training. 

This approach allows approved training organisations (ATOs) and operators to select the most suitable training device for a specific training objective by considering the FSTD capabilities and fidelity levels required to perform the task.

 The methodology is compatible with traditional and competency-based training methodologies.

▶Harmonisation with ICAO Doc 9625

With the new regulation and CS-FSTD Issue 1, EASA becomes the first Agency in the world that implements elements of ICAO Doc 9625 and provides opportunities for the EU industry and stakeholders to reap the benefits of the FCS framework. 

What Does This Mean for Stakeholders?
 

For FSTD Users (ATOs and AOC holders)

The new framework provides greater flexibility when designing training programmes for type rating training and selecting flight simulation training devices. It also supports the use of innovative technologies and training concepts. Opportunities for the AOC holders are provided with enabling the application of FCS framework in operator recurrent training.

For FSTD Manufacturers and Operators of FSTD

The framework creates new opportunities for innovation by enabling the qualification of technologies and devices that were not fully addressed under previous standards. While promoting new technologies, Regulation (EU) 2026/781 ensures level playing field, fairness and equality of opportunities for organisations operating already qualified FSTDs.

For Competent Authorities

The FCS provides a standardised and transparent method for describing and assessing FSTD capabilities, supporting harmonised qualification and oversight throughout Europe and outside the territories of the Member States where EASA acts as a competent authority.

Applicability of the New FCS Framework

Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026/781 and the CS-FSTD Issue 1 become applicable from 30 April 2028. In order to allow all affected stakeholders to prepare for the implementation, EASA has launched the Implementation Support Task IST.0007.
 

Implementation Support

The implementation programme includes:

  • an Implementation Support Manual (planned for publication in Q1 2027);
  • a general familiarisation information session on 15 December 2026 at EASA;
  • domain-specific workshops throughout 2027;
  • the publication of frequently asked questions.

Regulatory Material
 

Regulations

  • Regulation (EU) 2026/781, amending Regulations (EU) No 1178/2011 and (EU) No 965/2012 as regards the requirements applicable to flight simulation training devices and the use of those devices for pilot training, testing and checking

AMC and GM

Certification Specifications (CS) for FSTD

  • The newly introduced CS for FSTD prescribe standards for initial qualification of aeroplane and helicopter FSTDs with FCS and become applicable from 30 April 2028
     

For information, the certification specifications for qualification of aeroplane and helicopter FSTDs are still applicable before the new CS-FSTD Issue 1 becomes applicable:


Bilateral Aviation Safety Agreement with the United States to cover flight simulators

The European Union und the United States of America signed on 19/11/2020 two new Annexes to the Agreement on Cooperation in the Regulation of Civil Aviation Safety (BASA), expanding its areas of application to allow the conversion of pilot licences and to reduce duplication in the oversight of flight simulators.

On flight simulation training devices, the BASA Annex and its technical implementation allow for the reciprocal acceptance of findings of compliance, as well as documentation, on the recurrent evaluation and qualification of EU- and U.S.-based full flight simulators. It generates resource savings, in particular by eliminating duplicate evaluations by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The operators of flight simulation training devices will no longer be subject to multiple re-evaluations, and these savings can be passed on to air carriers sending pilots for training.
 

FSTD Special Conditions development and assessment process

Following the needs of industry to provide general guidance and a basis for the qualification of new technologies used in Flight Simulation Training Devices (FSTD) a process for ‘FSTD Special Conditions development and assessment’ has been established. EASA will apply this process when Special Conditions (SCs) are needed, either to address new technologies like Virtual Reality for existing types of FSTD, or for FSTD representing novel types of aircraft, like eVTOL. The process may serve as a guideline for National Competent Authorities (NCAs) as well.
 

FSTD Special Conditions for the use of Head Mounted Displays (HMD) combined with a motion platform with reduced envelope

Besides the FSTD Special Condition process described above, the first SCs have been developed by a Training Device Manufacturer (TDM) were assessed, prescribed and applied by EASA for the qualification of helicopter FNPT Level II and FTD Level 3, using Virtual Reality (VR) in combination with a reduced-stroke motion system, where the stroke is less than known from conventional Full Flight Simulators. It must be emphasized at this point that these SCs may not be applicable in the case of other FSTD constellations (e.g. without motion system), when other components are used or for other aircraft being represented.  
 

Further Information

Questions relating to FSTD qualification, implementation of the new framework or international acceptance arrangements may be directed to EASA through the normal stakeholder channels.

EASA will continue to work with authorities, training organisations, operators and manufacturers to support the successful implementation of the new capability-based FSTD framework.

 

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