A Comparison of Fixed Base/Pc-based Simulators With Traditional Moveable Platform Flight Simulators As a Tool for Teaching Private Pilots Radio Navigation and Basic Attitude Instrument Flying Skills

Abstract

In flight training, attention has been focused on the useability of flight training devices. In the past such devices as the GAT-1 trainer were used. The recent development of small, inexpensive computers has resulted in the creation of smaller fixed-based devices. Further, the development of the personal computer has made it possible for all pilots and flight students to own their own computers. Software is available for the training of flight students using these devices. Unfortunately the use of PC-based devices by pilots for flight training has been restricted by the Federal Aviation Administration because of their concern about the type of software that is available and its training value. However, the use of PC based training devices may well be a means of reducing the cost of flight training. Can these fixed-base and personal computer-based training devices be used as effectively as the GAT-1 trainer? The intent of the study was to evaluate the capabilities of three types of flight training devices. The study compared the ability of the three trainers to teach the skills required for Private Pilot operations. The results indicated that their were no significant differences in the means. The results also showed that the PC-XT-based Novel Twist and the Frasca had a higher absolute mean than the GAT-l Trainer and that the Novel Twist had the highest mean. Results from the study show that the new generation of general aviation flight training devices can provide the BAIJRadio Navigation training required for Private Pilot applicants. Further, the analysis of the results suggest that additional studies should be completed to (1) verify the tabulated results, (2) determine why the computer-driven simulators rated higher than the traditional GAT-l trainer, and (3) determine the full capabilities of PC-based desktop simulators.