Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Effectiveness of Part 121 operator simulators in training respective pilots for non-normal occurrences

Since the introduction of the Advanced Simulation Plan in 1980, flight simulators have been regarded as a panacea for airline pilot training requirements. Borne out of safety considerations, the Advanced Simulation Plan has lent guidance to simulator operators and users and, perhaps more importantly, the Plan established simulator fidelity standards. Is the Plan working? Prior research has attempted to answer this question by examining simulator fidelity, transfer of training, and simulator effectiveness. Most of these studies have concentrated on specific aspects of the simulator and have drawn comparisons to the simulator itself. But what do the pilots think? Is their simulator effectively preparing them for actual in-flight, non-normal occurrences? The researcher will examine pilot responses to this query.