Introduction

Becoming a pilot is an expensive, demanding, and high-stakes journey. One of the most transformative tools in modern aviation training is the flight simulator — whether Basic Aviation Training Devices, full-motion platforms, or advanced fixed simulators.

Simulators allow students to practice in safe environments, simulate emergencies, reduce costs, and sharpen skills before flying real aircraft. For those training under Indian regulatory standards (DGCA) and in cadet programs like Marigold Aviation’s IndiGo Cadet Pilot Program, knowing how simulators fit into your training roadmap is essential.

What Are Aeroplane Simulators?

A simulator (or Flight Simulation Training Device, FSTD) is a system that mimics aircraft behavior, cockpit systems, navigation, instrumentation, and sometimes motion, to provide training without flying a real plane. They vary by fidelity, motion, instrumentation, and regulatory approval.

Here are common types used in India (and globally):

Why Simulators Are So Valuable

Drawing on recent articles and pilot-training sources, here are key benefits and some caveats:

Benefits

1. Safety & Risk-Free Practice You can simulate engine failures, system malfunctions, or bad weather without endangering life or aircraft. Mistakes in simulators are learning opportunities without real-world consequences.
2. Cost Efficiency Simulators reduce the need for real aircraft hours, decreasing fuel, maintenance, and insurance costs. Training in simulators is 5-20% cheaper than analogous flying in many cases.
3. Weather & Time-Independent Training Unlike real weather, simulators can provide stable conditions or replicate adverse conditions at any time. Training can continue regardless of outside weather.
4. Instrument & Emergency Procedure Mastery Instrument flight rules (IFR) flying, navigation systems, autopilot operations, and emergency drills are heavily practiced in simulators. They accelerate the development of procedural discipline and cockpit resource management.
5. Regulatory and Type Rating Requirements Many DGCA-approved training organizations and airlines require certain hours in simulators (especially FTDs or FFS) for type rating or recurrent training. Using a certified simulator ensures the hours are formally recognized.

Caveats / Things to Watch Out For

• Not all simulators are created equal; the fidelity, motions, visuals, and system modelling differ greatly.
• Risk of reinforcing bad habits if not supervised properly. Instructor feedback is crucial. Pilot Rise Flight School
• Simulators can’t fully replicate physical sensations of flight (e.g., G-forces, acceleration, real turbulence).
• Regulatory compliance is essential: using unapproved simulators may not count toward DGCA records and may lead to issues. E.g., DGCA recently raised concerns over airlines using simulators not approved under CAR standards.

How Simulators Are Used in the Indian Aviation Training Landscape

• Indian flight schools deploy BATD/AATD/FTD devices for early training (navigation, instrument rating).
• Type Rating Training Organizations (TRTOs) use Level-D Full Flight Simulators for aircraft like A320, B737, ATR, etc. Eg: FSTC has multiple Level-D simulators.
• Newer simulator training centers: Simaero (Delhi NCR) is setting up full flight simulators including A320 NEO.
• Institutes like EIFTA in India provide fixed and full cockpit simulators (A320, B737, etc.) for both pre-type rating and instrument training.

Best Practices for Simulator Training: How to Get the Most Out of It

Here are tips derived from successful pilot training institutions, articles, and student experiences:

1. Ensure Simulator is DGCA/Regulator-Approved Always check if the simulator device has valid accreditation for the training you need. Unapproved simulator hours might not count.
2. Quality Over Quantity Many students accumulate simulator hours but neglect the learning effectiveness. Ensure your sessions are structured, with clear objectives: emergency drills, instrument scans, SOPs, failures.
3. Regular Mock Scenarios and Emergency Drills Practice adverse conditions. Simulate engine outs, system failures, weather divergences. Repeat until response becomes instinctive.
4. Instructor Feedback & Debriefing After each simulation session, go through what went well and what didn’t. Use replay, checklists, and video where available.
5. Transitioning to Real Aircraft Use simulation to build confidence but always validate it in the actual cockpit under supervision. Understand physical limits and aircraft-specific behavior which may differ.

How Marigold Aviation Uses Simulators

At Marigold Aviation, our training philosophy integrates simulator use early and often. Highlights include:

• Sessions in fixed cockpits and FNPT-/FTD-level devices during instrument and type rating phases.
• Emergency procedure drills in simulation environments before attempting in real aircraft.
• Simulator hours that are recognized by DGCA and aligned with requirements of the IndiGo Cadet Pilot Program.
• Debriefing and performance tracking so cadets can track improvement, avoid bad habits, and build confidence before flight time.

Conclusion

Aeroplane simulators have become indispensable in pilot training. They offer safety, cost savings, flexible schedules, instrument and emergency procedure mastery, and are a regulatory requirement for many advanced certifications. While simulators cannot replicate every physical aspect of flying, when used well they drastically reduce risk, improve skill, and prepare aspirants for real cockpit challenges.

If you’re an aspiring cadet, treat simulator training as more than just “practice time”—make it a structured, feedback-driven growth platform. Marigold Aviation is committed to providing you that path, combining simulator training with real flying for the best of both worlds.

🔗 Internal Links

• IndiGo Cadet Pilot Program
• What Is a Type Rating and Why You Need It
• The Role of Simulators in Modern Pilot Training