Realistic training on the ground
An FNPT-II (Flight and Navigation Procedures Trainer) is an officially EASA-approved procedure simulator that simulates the flying of single or multi-engine aeroplanes including IFR procedures. Although the simulator does not move physically, the interplay of authentic instruments, high-resolution visual representation and realistic rowing forces creates a credible flying experience.
A special advantage: Critical flight phases such as the final approach, system failures or missed approaches can be repeated as often as required without jeopardising flight operations or safety. Weather conditions, wind conditions or technical faults such as an iced-up pitot tube can also be simulated and systematically practised.
Flexibility in training
The Alsim 250 FNPT II from the AAG Flight Academy offers a Multi-configuration: It can be converted from single-engine SEP models like the Cessna 172 on Multi-engine MEP aircraft Piper Seneca or Diamond DA42, for example. The cockpit is fully equipped with modern glass cockpit technology (EFIS), a 210-degree field of view on a curved screen and one Instructor Stationwhich flight instructors can use to change weather scenarios, error states and traffic conditions live.
Training for realistic exceptional situations
In contrast to a real aircraft, the simulator allows you to practise safely what would be strictly forbidden or associated with high risks in the air - e.g:
- Complete failure of all motors
- Freezing the Pitot tubes
- System failure during GPS approaches
- Autopilot malfunctions during climb
- Reactions to radio silence or navigation errors
Also IFR procedure can be reproduced realistically - including missed approaches, SIDs, STARs and LPV/PBN approaches. Especially with complex display systems or touchscreen FMS, error repetition in the simulator helps to deepen understanding.
Train soft skills and mental strength
In addition to the manual skills, the simulator also focuses on the Soft skills worked. These include:
- Mental preparation and decision-makinge.g. with the help of the FORDEC model
- Crew Resource Management (CRM)also in the one-man cockpit
- Threat & Error Management (TEM) for early error detection and risk minimisation
- Communication training in radiotelephonyespecially in dense IFR traffic
These psychological and organisational skills are essential in order to remain capable of acting in real stressful situations.
Creditability for training hours
A significant advantage of the FNPT-II is the Formal recognition by aviation authorities. Depending on the training programme, extensive flight hours in the simulator can be counted towards the minimum flight time:
| Licence type | Maximum SIM hours that can be credited |
|---|---|
| PPL(A) | 5 of 45 hours |
| FI (experience) | 50 out of 200 hours |
| FI (Instructor Training) | 5 out of 100 hours |
| CPL/IR integrated | 40 out of 50 hours |
| ATPL/IR integrated | 40 out of 50 hours |
| IR-SE (single engine) | 35 out of 50 hours |
| IR-ME (multi engine) | 40 of 55 hours |
| CB-IR SE | 25 out of 40 hours |
| CB-IR ME | 30 of 45 hours |
This recognition not only reduces costs, but also increases flexibility in training planning - especially in the event of bad weather or restricted air traffic controller operations.
Conclusion: The simulator as an indispensable training tool
The Alsim 250 FNPT II impressively demonstrates how modern simulators can be used for Safety culture, training efficiency and cost control contribute to this. It enables a wide range of training content. At the same time, it trains behaviour, mindset and communication - skills that are essential for safe flying.
Source references:
Aviation magazine