Beyond English: How USIM Is Transforming Flight Training

Versatile simulation tool is now helping student pilots and future ATCs navigate complex, high-pressure scenarios.

Meg Godlewski

Saturday, June 20, 2026 at 08:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

Training in USIM [Credit: USIM]

Key Takeaways:

USIM, an online aviation English training program developed by Captain Alejandro Perez, was initially created to address language barriers and safety challenges faced by foreign pilots.
The program has expanded its utility and is now being adopted by aviation colleges, such as Minnesota State University at Mankato, to educate future air traffic controllers and flight instructors.
USIM provides scenario-based training using retired FAA air traffic controllers, allowing students to practice critical communication, navigate complex situations, and experience "chaos" like runway incursions in a safe, simulated environment.

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An online training program created decades ago to teach aviation English to foreign pilots is finding a new purpose at an aviation college in the Midwest to educate future air traffic controllers (ATCs).

USIM was created by Captain Alejandro Perez, an airline pilot from Mexico who realized that while English is the official language of aviation, aviation itself is a global phenomenon—and sometimes the language barrier leads to challenges and outright dangerous situations.