The resource for flight schools and pilots using simulation to train, stay current, and get better
Independent reviews, buying guides, and business resources for pilots and flight schools using simulation for real training.
Featured Simulator Reviews
Browse All Simulators →X-Plane 12 Review: The Flight Simulator Behind FAA-Approved Training Devices
Full review of X-Plane 12 by Laminar Research — the flight simulation engine that powers FAA-approved ATDs and offers the most aerodynamically accurate consumer flight simulator available.
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 Review: The Best Home Training Companion for Student Pilots
Full review of Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 as a home training tool for student pilots. Not FAA-approved, but the most visually realistic flight simulator available for procedure practice and airport familiarization.
Gleim Flight Experience BATD Review: The First FAA-Approved BATD Built on X-Plane
Full review of the Gleim Flight Experience BATD — an all-in-one FAA-approved basic aviation training device with X-Plane engine, built-in syllabus, and instructor operating station.
Featured Guides
Browse All Guides →How to Choose an ATD for Your Flight School
A practical guide for flight school owners on selecting the right aviation training device, covering BATD vs AATD economics, vendor comparison, space requirements, and the FAA LoA process.
Building a Home Flight Simulator for Pilot Training — What to Buy
A practical buying guide for student pilots and instrument students who want to build a home flight simulator for real training value, organized by budget tier.
Which Flight School Software Actually Supports Simulator Scheduling?
A breakdown of which flight school management platforms handle simulator scheduling natively and which require workarounds.
Business Resources
Browse All Business Resources →Tracking ATD Hours for FAA Compliance — What Your Scheduling Software Needs to Do
What flight schools need to document for every ATD session to meet FAA compliance requirements, and why native simulator scheduling matters for audit readiness.
How Part 141 Schools Can Use Simulator Hours to Reduce Training Costs
How Part 141 flight schools can leverage AATD substitution allowances to lower instrument rating costs, improve margins, and accelerate simulator ROI.
How to Fill Your Simulator's Schedule (And Stop Leaving Revenue on the Table)
Practical strategies for flight schools to maximize ATD utilization through better scheduling, marketing to outside pilots, and treating the simulator as a revenue resource.