How Does an Aviation Simulator Work?

Aviation simulators give beginning pilots a feel for what it is like in the cockpit.

Aviation simulators give pilots-in-training a place where they can experience flight-like circumstances and make decisions that are similar to what they would have to make in a cockpit, but without the dangers of actually being in flight.

Programming

The there are different computer programs that allow people to feel like they have entered the cock pit and are making decisions for a real aircraft. The programming allows the pilot to feel as if he is actually in air.

Virtual Problem Solving

Aviation simulators present problems so the pilot can practice making a high-pressure decisions.

Cockpit Controls

Aviation simulators have cockpit controls so a beginning pilot can learn which buttons to press and the exact process that she is going to go through when she is in the air.

Smaller Flight Simulations

There are smaller flight simulators available for the new learner, and there are PC-based gaming systems that have lifelike programming. There are no controls except for keyboard and joystick controls.

References

• Cypress College Aviation Department: Kathleen Reiland [e-mail]
• Aviation Week: Avionics Simulation