EASA's new FSTD Capability Signature (FCS) Framework represents the most significant change to flight simulator qualification in decades.
By replacing traditional FSTD classifications with a capability-based approach, the framework allows training organisations to align simulator capabilities directly with training objectives, unlocking greater flexibility, innovation and potential efficiencies in type rating and recurrent training.
This 60-minute webinar and Q&A will explain the regulatory changes, the benefits of adopting FCS, implementation milestones, and the practical steps training providers, operators and regulators should take to prepare for the transition.
To register, please visit our registration page
- Welcome & Introduction
- Why the Industry Needs the FCS Framework
- Interactive Session
- Understanding and Implementing FCS
- Q&A
This webinar is open to all aviation professionals but may be particularly useful for 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
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, and 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, and faster adoption of new technologies , such as Virtual Reality.
In response to the recent FSTD regulatory update, CAA International has launched a new training course on the FSTD Capability Signature.
If you have any questions, please contact the training team.
Email: training@caainternational.co.uk.
Hear from FSTD Technical Advisor, Mark Dransfield and FSTD Lead, Andrew Bell.
Andrew Bell
FSTD Qualification and Operation
Andrew worked for a major Flight Simulation Training Device (FSTD) manufacturer over 20 years, where he acquired extensive experience in the areas of FSTD software design, development, integration and testing. He also worked as project engineer for several years and, latterly, as platform lead engineer responsible for configuration control across all FSTDs for specific aircraft types, controlling simulation baselines and providing FSTD evaluation support internally, to FSTD end users and to regulators. Over 10 years, Andrew has been working as an accredited technical inspector carrying out FSTD technical evaluations and operator management system audits on behalf of the UK CAA nationally, and EASA internationally.
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.
If you have any questions, please contact the events team.
Email: international@caa.co.uk.
