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Why More Helicopter Operators Are Choosing The FTD 3 Sweet Spot for Training
The FTD 3 offers helicopter operators a compelling alternative to full flight simulators. This fixed-base device delivers high-fidelity, type-specific training with the same flight test data quality as an FFS, but at significantly lower costs. Discover why more operators are leveraging FTD 3 training credits for initial courses, type ratings, and recurrent checks.

Daniel de Vries
Jan 165 min read


How FSTD Capability Signatures (FCS) and Task-to-Tool are Changing Our Industry
The aviation training industry is shifting from rigid simulator classifications to a capability-based model. FSTD Capability Signatures and Task-to-Tool training allow operators to match training objectives with the exact simulator fidelity required, improving efficiency, flexibility, and cost control.

Daniel de Vries
Jan 65 min read


Why “Good Enough” Isn't "Good Enough" in Flight Simulator Maintenance
In flight simulator maintenance, "good enough" is a silent killer of reliability. What starts as a temporary workaround often becomes permanent technical debt, degrading training fidelity and increasing downtime. Discover why settling for marginal performance puts pilot safety at risk and how top operators maintain "fit for purpose" standards in an aging fleet.

Sam Austin
Jan 26 min read


Simutech Solutions and Bluedrop USA Form Strategic Partnership to Expand Critical Training Capabilities in APAC and Middle East
BRISBANE, Australia – December 29, 2025 – Simutech Solutions, a leader in independent aviation training support, today announced a strategic partnership with Bluedrop USA. This collaboration brings advanced tactical training simulation products to operators across the Asia Pacific and Middle East at a time of increasing demand for defence and civil readiness. The partnership combines Bluedrop’s deep industry experience and desire to expand its global footprint with Simutech’

Daniel de Vries
Dec 29, 20252 min read


Why Inventory Strategy Matters Just As Much As Repair Skills for Simulator Reliability
Repair skills alone won't keep your flight simulator flying. Discover why a robust Inventory Strategy is the missing link to FSTD reliability. From battling obsolescence (DMSMS) to optimizing spare parts, learn how to prevent costly training downtime. Essential reading for operators wanting to secure their supply chain and ensure regulatory compliance.

Daniel de Vries
Dec 26, 20258 min read


What's in a Qualification Test Guide (QTG) for Flight Simulators?
Discover the backbone of flight simulator validation: the Qualification Test Guide (QTG). Learn how this document proves an FSTD matches reality, the critical difference between QTG and Master QTG (MQTG), and why it is essential for FAA and EASA regulatory compliance. A must-read guide for operators ensuring high-fidelity pilot training standards.

Daniel de Vries
Dec 20, 20259 min read


The Art (and Science) of Keeping Flight Simulators Training-Ready
Maintaining a flight simulator is a critical blend of engineering science and troubleshooting art. From daily pre-flight checks to advanced predictive maintenance, discover what it takes to keep these complex Level D machines compliant, reliable, and ready for pilot training 24/7.

Daniel de Vries
Dec 10, 202510 min read


Flight Simulator Qualification... or is it Certification? Approval? Evaluation?
Struggling with flight simulator terminology? Is an FSTD qualified, certified, or approved? This guide clarifies the confusing terms used by global aviation authorities like the FAA (Part 60) and EASA (CS-FSTD). Understand the critical differences between simulator 'Qualification,' 'Certification,' 'Approval,' and 'Evaluation' to ensure compliance and training effectiveness.

Daniel de Vries
Nov 11, 202512 min read


Collaboration in the Flight Simulation Industry
Expert analysis on the flight simulation industry's shift from isolation to collaboration. Learn how partnerships are now essential for managing complex simulator ecosystems, ensuring reliability, and driving innovation for aviation safety.

Sam Austin
Nov 6, 20255 min read


Addressing Pilot Frustrations with Flight Simulator Training
Flight simulators are indispensable for aviation safety, yet many pilots feel training falls short. Sessions can become rushed "box ticking" exercises, lacking realism and tailored scenarios. This piece explores common pilot frustrations—from inefficient instruction to the "constant lack of reality"—and examines how technology and improved methods can transform simulator training into a truly valuable experience.

Daniel de Vries
Sep 21, 20259 min read


What is Negative Training, Exactly in flight simulators?
What is negative training in flight simulators? Discover how incorrect habits acquired during simulation can compromise real-world aviation safety. This guide explores the causes, from poor simulator fidelity to VR limitations, and the crucial strategies to mitigate these risks for effective pilot training.

Daniel de Vries
Sep 9, 20258 min read


Data at Your Fingertips - How Logging and Monitoring Systems Can Transform Simulator Maintenance
Transform flight simulator maintenance from a reactive scramble to a proactive strategy. Learn how effective logging and monitoring can predict failures, reduce costly downtime, and maximise availability. Data-driven insights are essential for extending asset life and safeguarding aviation safety.

Sam Austin
Sep 9, 20255 min read


Why Soft Skills Matter as Much as Technical Skills in Flight Simulator Maintenance
Technical expertise keeps simulators running, but it’s soft skills that make great technicians stand out. From communication and teamwork to adaptability and professionalism, human-centered skills are essential for safety, efficiency, and customer trust in flight simulator maintenance.

Sam Austin
Aug 21, 20256 min read


How the Mentorship of Seasoned Technicians Shapes the Future of Flight Simulator Support
As simulator systems age and support dwindles, experienced technicians hold irreplaceable knowledge. Mentorship accelerates learning, reduces downtime, and preserves critical expertise before retirement waves hit. Smart operators invest in structured mentorship programs to ensure continuity and build stronger teams.

Sam Austin
Aug 12, 20257 min read


Setting up a Facility for Full Flight Simulators
Installing a full flight simulator? The facility is as critical as the device itself. This guide covers the essential requirements for structural design, power, HVAC, and data infrastructure. Learn how to protect your multi-million-dollar investment, meet regulatory standards, and build a facility that ensures peak performance.

Daniel de Vries
Jul 20, 202511 min read


What Makes a Great Flight Simulator Technician? Hiring for Potential, Not Just Experience
Struggling to hire a Flight Simulator Technician? The talent pool is shrinking. The solution isn't waiting for the perfect resume—it's hiring for potential. Discover the key traits of great sim techs that matter more than experience and learn how to train a loyal, long-term team from the ground up.

Sam Austin
Jul 20, 20256 min read


Training the Next Generation of Flight Simulator Technicians and Engineers
Your lead flight simulator technician is retiring, creating a talent gap that risks costly downtime. Simutech Solutions offers structured training, mentoring, and support to build your next-gen sim tech team. Secure your operations and prevent simulator downtime by planning for succession today.

Sam Austin
Jul 13, 20255 min read


Keeping the Classics Flying: Strategies for Supporting Aging Flight Simulators
Even decades-old flight simulators still have wings. At Simutech Solutions, we help operators extend the life of legacy sims with smart upgrades, obsolescence planning, and non-OEM partnerships—ensuring fidelity, compliance, and performance without breaking budgets. Because no simulator should be grounded before its time.

Sam Austin
Jun 19, 20256 min read


The Impacts of Visual System Calibration and Maintenance on Flight Simulator Fidelity
Visual fidelity in flight simulators is mission-critical. From projector calibration to latency tuning, every detail shapes how real the experience feels—and how well pilots train. This deep dive explores why visuals matter, how Delta E values impact realism, and how poor calibration can lead to dangerous “negative training.”

Daniel de Vries
Jun 19, 202510 min read


Why Do Level D Flight Simulators Cost So Much?
From advanced motion platforms to regulatory certifications, Level D flight simulators are marvels of engineering. In this blog, we break down the key cost drivers behind these high-fidelity systems and why they’re essential to modern pilot training.

Daniel de Vries
Jun 8, 20258 min read
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