How Simulations Have Improved Aviation Training and the Aviation Industry

The use of simulations goes back to World War I, though they were elementary at best. A man named Edwin Link used parts from church organs to fashion the first flight simulator. As simple as this flight simulator was, it was sold to the military and was in use up until the 1950s.

Flight simulation training has advanced to the point that it would be unthinkable to consider aviation education in any genre without it, from the military to commercial flight. Many significant advantages have resulted from the developments in simulated aviation training.

Benefits of aviation simulations

Learning to control an aircraft is serious business and the use of simulation technology radicalized the way it’s done. A simulator is a much more ideal environment for learning, than that of an actual cockpit. Loss of life and machinery does not occur within simulation training.

Other than the obvious element of safety, here are a few of the practical positives:

Reduced noise. The lower level of noise allows the instructor and student the ability to communicate more effectively, as well as helping the learner to concentrate on the important skills they need to comprehend. Though prospective pilots will have to learn to deal with the distraction of noise while actually flying a real plane, it’s helpful to have as much knowledge under their belt as possible before reaching that point.
Basic comfort. It may not seem like a major issue, however, the regulated temperature and humidity of this simulated environment are more conducive to learning. A learner who isn’t distracted by an uncomfortable temperature can focus on what they’re doing. Again, these are distractions that will eventually need to be dealt with but don’t need to be a factor as the basics are being learned.
Time factor. A simulation negates the need to start and warm up an actual aircraft or to fly to a designated area to train. It also doesn’t depend on weather conditions. The training can be accomplished in a shorter amount of time when these other variables are no longer part of the equation. In fact, one hour of time in an aviation simulator is equal to approximately two or more hours of flight training in a real aircraft.
Immediate feedback. A simulation can be paused at any time for further instruction, including the middle of a maneuver. This allows the instructor to address an issue immediately and give the necessary feedback in the moment. A lesson can also be repeated as many times as necessary in a short length of time.

Looking ahead

Aviation training is advancing quickly and the future training will hold improved simulation programs to further prepare men and women to pilot aircraft. This far-reaching advancement is also impacting the design and creation of aircraft. But, the implications go beyond aviation. Many industries and varying businesses are employing simulations to enhance the training experiences for their employees.

As the cost of technology continues to fall, the opportunities for digital education to spread into other workplaces across the country are numerous.