![flight simulator pc used flight simulator pc used](https://static.bhphotovideo.com/explora/sites/default/files/2-thrustmaster-t.16000m-fcs-flight-stick.jpg)
What's the difference anyway, on a PC we see an out-the-window view, a 6-DoF model of an aeroplane react to our inputs, hear sounds, can see indicators move.walks like a duck, quacks like a duck, must be a duck, right? The distinction between computer games and flight simulators has been blurring in the last decade. It has to be FAA/EASA qualified, where EASA has stricter rules on low level devices.
FLIGHT SIMULATOR PC USED SOFTWARE
Yes the PC software that OP mentions can be used for professional flight training - if it demonstrates to the authorities that it matches aircraft data, and that is where the distinction lies. Here's a (somewhat older) article detailing the custom software architecture these simulators use. For full-size jets, there are essentially two companies in the world who do this, CAE and L-3 CTS (formerly Thales).
FLIGHT SIMULATOR PC USED FULL
A single full flight simulator can cost up to $20 Million, so their resources are far better than what enthusiast software program can do. Obviously none of the enthusiast programs can do this.
FLIGHT SIMULATOR PC USED CODE
In newer systems, if they don't run the hardware, they obtain the original code from the vendors and run it in a software simulator (a process called re-hosting).
![flight simulator pc used flight simulator pc used](https://img.youtube.com/vi/k1SImZPK8Sw/hqdefault.jpg)
This ensures the highest levels of fidelity. Things like FMS, display computers, autopilot, and even fly-by-wire computers, are traditionally done with actual flight hardware that are fed with data from the simulator. On top of that, full flight simulators do not simulate much of the hardware. FAA and EASA certified full flight simulators are built with a data package purchased from the airframer, which uses their developmental models coupled with actual flight test data. If your really adventurous you can build a full cockpit sim yourself.Ĭomputer games try to model the aircraft based on generalized aerodynamic and physical principles and at best "feel". SIMCOM uses actual aircraft interiors (most likely from defunct airframes) for their sims. As the OEM builder they have access to genuine interior parts to build the sims.įor smaller aircraft places like SIMCOM offer training in full motion sims but do not list their software of choice. I would think they built the software in-house but I don't have any hard evidence on that. Both Boeing and Airbus run facilities with full motion simulators. Many airlines may turn back to the manufacturer for recurrent training. It was certified and had no screen, I would say it was "custom built" FWIW. The flight school I trained at had a certified sim from the 80's that was pretty miserable by todays standards. You can find more info on the FAA's approved simulators here and here. However X-Plane also has an FAA certified version that if paired with proper controls is legal for certain training/instructional hours. X-Plane offers a "Professional Level" which is mostly about licensing.