Training Through Simulation - Flying With Hatsoff

There are some critical emergencies that cannot be practiced on actual aircraft or helicopter; either because it cannot be simulated or because it is far too dangerous to do so. Take for example, a catastrophic failure of the tail drive; or a dual engine failure. No amount of reading manuals or discussion in briefing rooms can impart a realistic ‘feel’ for aircraft behavior or expected pilot action. This left a big void in training systems of the past, often leading to fatal outcomes.

- KP Sanjeev Kumar

That changed with the advent of simulation technology. Starting from basic Cockpit Procedure Trainer (CPT), low-end cockpit modules and Flight Training Device (FTD), simulation today has evolved into an irreplaceable part of fixed and rotary wing training syllabus. At the apex of this technology lies the Level ‘D’ Full Flight Simulator or FFS.

In large fixed wing aircraft like a Boeing or Airbus, it would be far too expensive, even impractical, to spare actual airplanes for crew training. Fixed wing FFS provide full type rating training for such aircraft. A pilot can walk out of a simulator training program and occupy a first officer’s seat in the cockpit – such is the fidelity of training obtained in FFS.

Helicopters, owing to their peculiar flying characteristics and handling qualities, still need a portion of type-rating training to be conducted on actual aircraft in most parts of the world. That said, type rating syllabus on any modern twin-engine helicopter today would in all probability require a simulator syllabus to be completed. They are also an invaluable part of recurrent training and IFR training modules in civil aviation.

It is this aspect of helicopter training that was, for the longest time, waiting for a service provider in India. That changed in 2008.