Qualification and approval of flight simulators and flight training devices

This regulation establishes that flight simulators and training devices must receive FAA qualification and approval before pilots can use them to meet training, testing, or checking requirements. The approval must be specific to three things: the type of training or testing being conducted, the particular maneuvers or procedures being practiced, and the aircraft category, class, or type being simulated.

There are two exceptions: devices approved before August 1, 1996 can still be used if they function as originally designed and are used only for their originally approved purposes. Additionally, the FAA may approve other devices that don't fit the standard simulator or training device definitions for specific uses.

In practice, this means you can only log time or meet requirements in simulators and training devices that have proper FAA approval for what you're doing. Your flight school or training center should ensure their devices have the appropriate qualifications before you use them for credit toward certificates or ratings.

*This is a plain-English summary for study only. The official 14 CFR text on this page is controlling — always read the current regulation and consult a CFI.*