EASA Overhauls Flight Training Simulation Regs, Creating Flexible Approach | Aviation International News

Training and Workforce

EASA Overhauls Flight Training Simulation Rules

New framework modernizes approach to qualification and use of flight-training simulator devices

Loft Dynamics virtual reality flight simulators — With an investment in Loft Dynamics by Alaska Star Ventures, Alaska Airlines will deploy virtual reality flight simulators at its Boeing 737 bases and Seattle training center.

By Kerry Lynch • Editor, AIN monthly magazine

July 16, 2026

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) released a new flight simulation training device (FSTD) regulatory framework, calling it “the most significant evolution of flight simulation qualification in Europe in decades.”

Established under Regulation (EU) 2026/781, the framework is designed to modernize how FSTDs are qualified and used in pilot training, according to EASA. Significantly, it provides for a more flexible capability-based approach rather than qualification based on fixed simulator types and levels. Under the new approach, training devices will be assessed based on technical capabilities. EASA added that the framework was further written so it can evolve alongside simulation technology advances.

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