Definition
Ground-based training equipment that replicates the instruments, controls, and systems of a specific aircraft or aircraft category, used to develop and practice flying skills outside the actual airplane. FTDs are formally categorized by the FAA into levels (currently Levels 4 through 7) based on how closely they reproduce the aircraft's cockpit, systems, and flight characteristics. Unlike full flight simulators, FTDs do not require a motion platform, but they must accurately reproduce the cockpit layout and aircraft systems to qualify at each level.
Plain English
A training rig on the ground that looks and behaves like a real cockpit, so pilots can practice procedures and handling without flying a real airplane.
Context Anchor
Seen in instructor training, electronic learning, and discussions of ground-based tools used to teach flight skills before or between aircraft lessons.
Why Pilots Care
They let pilots build and maintain skills safely and at lower cost than aircraft time while still counting toward many training requirements.
Intuition Check
Do not assume every flight training device is a full flight simulator. An FTD may look and respond like part or all of an aircraft cockpit, but it is a specific category of approved training equipment.
Example Sentence 1
The instructor scheduled two hours in the FTD to practice instrument approaches before the next flight lesson.
Example Sentence 2
Many FTDs are FAA-approved for specific training credits, reducing the number of hours needed in the actual aircraft.