Simulator Qualification: Just as Phony as It Can Be

The qualification of airplane simulators for pilot training is based on the assumption that transfer of such training is directly related to the similarity of the device to an actual airplane. The consequence of this widely held position has been the specification of training device requirements solely on the basis of engineering criteria. However, the proper criterion is the flight hours saved in airborne training for each incremental investment in ground training. Furthermore, research has shown that innovations in training strategies, in some cases involving intentional departures from reality, can have stronger effects than high simulator fidelity on the resulting quality of pilot performance. Ideally, each aspect of the training curriculum could be taught to some criterion performance level on the ground. Competence in each block of training would be demonstrated after a brief transition in the airplane. Certification for each license and rating would be based on demonstrated competence, thereby making possible large reductions in the minimum required flying hours. Credit for ground-based training would no longer be a formal issue.