Simulator Training Centers

On these pages weve repeatedly emphasized the benefits of simulator training. Its something in which we believe quite strongly. In a simulator, you can more safely explore the edge cases of flight than youd ever consider tackling in an aircraft-until the aircraft presents you with one of those edge cases by surprise. Plus, simulator training is far more efficient in time and cost than an aircraft.

Frank Bowlin

Thursday, October 20, 2016 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

Piston general aviation pilots face limited and often expensive options for formal simulator training, as major providers cater to commercial/jet aircraft, leaving specialized centers like SIMCOM and more affordable alternatives such as Recurrent Training Center (RTC).
RTC offers a cost-effective, one-day recurrent training program for piston aircraft, combining online self-study with on-site simulator training, designed to meet insurance requirements and refresh pilot skills.
While the author found RTC's online training beneficial for self-paced learning despite some "quirky" aspects, the simulator portion reportedly fell short in addressing specific aircraft procedures as requested, prioritizing standard maneuvers instead.
Ultimately, RTC provides good value for money and effectively helps active pilots refresh their skills, though very rusty pilots may find the training perfunctory and need additional in-aircraft time to achieve full competence.

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On these pages we’ve repeatedly emphasized the benefits of simulator training. It’s something in which we believe quite strongly. In a simulator, you can more safely explore the edge cases of flight than you’d ever consider tackling in an aircraft—until the aircraft presents you with one of those edge cases by surprise.

Plus, simulator training is far more efficient in time and cost than an aircraft. Yes, sim training is an all-around win. However, if you don’t have your own sim (see “Cockpit Proficiency” in August 2016) and your local FBO doesn’t have a suitable one, where do you go?