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 is an online simulator-based program, developed by Captain Alejandro Perez, originally designed to teach aviation English to foreign pilots to overcome critical communication barriers in global aviation.
The program is now expanding its use to educate future air traffic controllers (ATCs) and flight instructors at aviation colleges, such as Minnesota State University at Mankato.
USIM utilizes retired FAA ATCs and customizable, scenario-based training to expose students to realistic, and even chaotic or dangerous, aviation situations, enhancing communication skills and preparedness.

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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.