Definition
Ground-based training equipment that reproduces the cockpit, controls, instruments, and flight behavior of an aircraft for the purpose of pilot training, evaluation, and currency. FSTD is an umbrella term covering the full range of FAA-qualified simulation equipment, including full flight simulators (FFS) and flight training devices (FTD), each with their own qualification levels set by the FAA.
Plain English
FSTDs are training machines that mimic flying a real aircraft from the ground. They include everything from fixed cockpit mock-ups to full motion simulators, and they're approved by the FAA for use in pilot training and checking.
Context Anchor
Seen in flight training programs when an instructor uses a simulator or training device before, during, or instead of certain aircraft lessons.
Why Pilots Care
They let pilots rehearse emergencies, instrument procedures, and crew coordination at far lower cost and risk than flying the actual aircraft.
Intuition Check
Do not assume every aviation computer program or home simulator is an FSTD. In FAA training use, an FSTD is a recognized training device that must be authorized for the credit or purpose being claimed.
Example Sentence 1
The instructor used the FSTD to demonstrate an engine failure on takeoff before the student attempted it in the aircraft.
Example Sentence 2
Only FSTDs that meet FAA qualification standards can be used for training credit toward a certificate.