FSTD Capability Signature
Aligning pilot training with FSTD capability: Implications for qualification & compliance
BOOK NOWIN-COMPANY REQUEST
Classroom: 3 days
Online: 4 days
£1,420 GBP excl. VAT
Classroom, Online & In-Company
London Gatwick
Classroom: 09:00-17:00
Online: 08:00-13:00
Course Overview
This course introduces the FSTD Capability Signature (FCS) philosophy established in ICAO 9625 Manual of Criteria for the Qualification of Flight Simulation Training Devices Volumes I (aeroplanes) and II (helicopters) that matches pilot training/training to proficiency tasks for all license training types to defined FSTD features and 4 feature fidelity levels. The application of this FCS philosophy by National Aviation Authorities introduces a significant change into the regulatory framework for initial (Flight Crew Licensing (FCL) and recurrent (Aircrew Operations (OPS) pilot training.
This FCS philosophy has now been adopted in the EU and published in Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026/781, dated 08 April 2026. The Regulation enters into force in the EU on 30 April 2026 and, following a two-year transition period, becomes applicable from 30 April 2028.
The mapping of this proposed new FCS qualification process covering FSTD general requirements, statements of justification, engineering reports, objective testing and functional subjective testing, is described during the course as well as the additional requirements applicable to the National Aviation Authorities and FSTD operators for future FSTD qualification compliance.
- Examine the FSTD Capability Signature (FCS) philosophy established in ICAO 9625
- Explore the FCS approach to EASA FSTD qualification which is also being considered for adoption in the UK
- Review FSTD Operator responsibilities and actions required for regulatory compliance
What is FSTD Capability Signature?
The FSTD Capability Signature (FCS) is a new FSTD regulatory framework, based on ICAO Doc 9625, that defines a simulator’s training fidelity through 14 specific features and 4 fidelity levels rather than just its overall qualification type/level. FCS breaks down simulation into technical areas (e.g., aircraft, cueing & environment simulation) to match specific training tasks to the required simulator performance. FCS moves from the traditional “tool-to-task” method to a more flexible, competency-oriented approach, (“task-to-tool) that allows for more flexibility in training, better use of other training devices beyond traditional Full Flight Simulators (FFS), and faster adoption of new technologies , such as Virtual Reality.
It is targeted at individuals and organisations that are involved in, or have an interest in FSTD design, manufacture, usage or operation, and regulatory oversight:
- NAA FSTD technical/flight inspectors
- FSTDO Compliance monitoring/technical/operational managers
- Training Device Manufacturer (TDM) QTG engineering/management staff
- Pilot training programme developers / designers
This training course will include the following key topics:
- FCS framework for 14 simulation features / 4 fidelity levels
- EASA FCS qualification (CS-FSTD)
- General requirements
- Statements of Justification
- Engineering Reports & VDRs
- Equipment Specification List (ESL)
- Transition arrangements
- EASA Regulatory impacts
- Training – Parts FCL / ORO
- Oversight – Part ARA
- Compliance – Part OR
By the end of this course delegates will have an understanding, through presentations and facilitated discussion, of the following related to ICAO 9625, EASA Commission Implementing Regulation 2026/781, and the FCS approach:
- Understanding of ICAO 9625 core philosophy linking training tasks to FSTD features and fidelity levels
- Part FCL/ORO training matrix FCS requirements for fixed wing/rotary wing type rating and recurrent training
- CS FSTD initial issue structure and layout
- Part ARA updates – including new FSTD evaluation report and FSTD qualification certificates
- Part ORA updates – including establishing the FSTD Equipment Specification List (ESL)
- Potential future applications of the FCS approach to new aircraft types and technologies such as VR/AR.
Delegates will be expected to have familiarity with some or all of the following:
- ICAO doc 9625 Manual of Criteria for the Qualification of FSTDs
- EASA Aircrew regulation Parts -FCL, Part-ARA & Part-ORA as applicable to FSTD qualification, operation and continued compliance
- EASA FSTD Certification Specifications, CS-FSTD(A) & CS-FSTD(H) covering objective / functional subjective requirements and testing of FSTDs
Delegates will be expected to download and review the material supplied in advance of the course.
Meet your Instructors
Mark Dransfield
FSTD Capability Signature
Mark is an independent FSTD regulatory consultant, based out of the UK, specialising in the evaluation and qualification of FSTDs in accordance with the latest regulatory frameworks around the world. As such he is involved in various industry rule-making activities within the regulatory agencies concerned with flight crew training, including EASA with whom he is registered as an independent FSTD subject matter expert.
Previously Mark spent 20 years in the Training Device Manufacturer (TDM) side of the industry in various engineering and senior management positions where he covered most aspects of commercial flight simulator engineering, production, evaluation, qualification, customer support and strategic business development. In addition, Mark spent 3 years as UK CAA Simulator Standards Manager responsible for managing the regulatory oversight of all FSTD Qualifications within the UK, and on behalf of the JAA. He also co-chaired the International Working Group responsible for the production and update of ICAO doc 9625 Manual of Criteria for the Qualification of FSTDs.
Mark holds a BSc (Hons) degree in Aeronautical Engineering from London University, is a registered Chartered Engineer, Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society and winner of the ARINC FSEMC Edwin A Link Award for his vision and services to the flight simulation industry.
Additional Information
Course delivery methods
We offer two different ways to attend this course:
- Face-to-Face Classroom Course: Embrace the traditional learning method by attending our physical training venue. Benefit from direct interaction with our instructors and fellow participants, creating an immersive and hands-on learning experience. To book a classroom course, please check the booking table at the top of this page and select your preferred training venue location.
- Instructor-Led Virtual Course: Enjoy the flexibility of attending this training remotely from your home or office with our live virtual course. Engage in interactive learning from anywhere in the world. We deliver our virtual courses via Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and Webex. Once your booking is confirmed, we will notify you of the platform on which your selected course will be hosted. To attend this course virtually, look for the ‘online’ venue option in the booking table above.
Please note that course durations may vary slightly between our face-to-face and virtual deliveries. Please refer to the start and end date of your chosen course.
Our goal is to offer flexible, effective and convenient course delivery methods that suit your preferences and learning needs. Please choose the option that works best for you!
If you can’t see a classroom or virtual option, we likely haven’t released the next set of dates. Please get in touch to find out when we’ll announce the new dates, and we’ll be sure to keep you informed once they are available or even add you to our waiting list.
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Further reading
Delegates will be expected to download and review the material supplied in advance of the course.
In-company delivery
We can also tailor this training course to suit your organisation’s training requirements. These bespoke training packages can be delivered at your organisation’s location – almost anywhere, worldwide. Please Contact us for more information and to discuss your requirements.
VAT information
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FAQs
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