Definition
Basic Aviation Training Devices (BATDs) are ground-based training devices approved by the FAA that replicate the instruments, controls, and basic flight characteristics of an aircraft. They are used for procedural practice, instrument task training, and a limited amount of loggable flight time toward certain pilot certificates and currency requirements, as defined in the FAA's letter of authorization for the device.
Plain English
A BATD is a simple desktop-style flight simulator that the FAA has officially approved for use in pilot training. It looks and behaves enough like a real cockpit that pilots can practice procedures on the ground, and some of that practice can count toward training requirements.
Context Anchor
Seen in flight training when an instructor discusses electronic learning tools, ground-based practice, or what types of device practice may count toward training requirements.
Derivation
"Basic" signals that this is the entry-level tier of approved training devices — below Advanced Aviation Training Devices (AATDs) and full flight simulators. "Aviation Training Device" is the FAA's formal category name for ground-based devices that meet specific approval standards.
Why Pilots Care
They provide a lower-cost way to build flight experience and complete some required training hours safely before moving to an actual aircraft.
Grounding Statement
A BATD gives the student a safe ground-based place to practice cockpit actions before doing them in the airplane.
Intuition Check
Do not read “basic” as meaning “unimportant” or “toy-like.” In this FAA use, “basic” means the device meets a lower, simpler approval level than more advanced training devices, while still being useful for approved training tasks.
Example Sentence 1
The flight school uses a BATD for instrument procedure practice before students fly the same approaches in the airplane.
Example Sentence 2
BATDs let pilots rehearse emergency procedures repeatedly without the expense or risk of flying.