Short definitions
An FTD (flight training device) is a fixed-base replica of an aircraft cockpit used for procedures and instrument training; the FAA defines FTD levels in 14 CFR Part 60.
An FNPT II (flight and navigation procedures trainer, type II) is an EASA device category under CS-FSTD(A), used for instrument, navigation and multi-engine procedures training. An FNPT II MCC adds the features needed for multi-crew cooperation courses.
An IPT (integrated procedures trainer) is a fixed-base trainer for a specific airliner type, such as the A320 or B737, used for procedures, flows and checklists before full flight simulator sessions.
A full flight simulator (FFS) is a full replica of a specific type's flight deck on a motion platform with a wide-field visual system, qualified at Level A to D.
Comparison table
| Device | Typical use | Motion | Visual | Qualification basis | Typical buyer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FTD (e.g. Level 5) | Procedures and instrument training for an aircraft class or type | None (fixed base) | Optional at lower levels; commonly fitted | FAA 14 CFR Part 60; CAAC CCAR-60 | Flight schools, universities |
| FNPT II | Instrument, navigation and multi-engine procedures | None | Commonly fitted | EASA CS-FSTD(A) | EASA ATOs, universities |
| FNPT II MCC | Multi-crew cooperation (MCC) courses | None | Fitted for MCC exercises | EASA CS-FSTD(A) with MCC features | ATOs running MCC / APS MCC |
| IPT (A320 / B737) | Type procedures, flows and checklists before FFS sessions | None | Varies by device | Per authority: qualified as an FTD or used as a training aid | Airlines, type-rating ATOs, universities |
| FFS (Level A–D) | Type rating, recurrent and advanced training | Full motion platform | Wide-field collimated visual | EASA CS-FSTD(A); FAA 14 CFR Part 60 | Airlines, training centres |
General definitions, not the specification of any one device. Sources: FAA 14 CFR Part 60, EASA FNPT validation data requirements, UK CAA Standards Document 18.
How to choose
Start from the course and the authority, not the hardware. Write down the training tasks you want credited, then ask your authority which device level it will accept for them — Traficom advises contacting the authority while planning a purchase. Only then compare devices and manufacturers.
Who qualifies the device?
No manufacturer or agent certifies a device: qualification is granted per device by the competent authority after an evaluation, normally for a named operator. The manufacturer writes the qualification test guide (QTG); under UK CAA guidance the operator submits it. Public lists of qualified devices are kept by EASA and the FAA.
Sourcing these devices from China
AeroOrigin sources FTDs, FNPT II-class devices and A320/B737 IPTs from UE (U-Wing), full flight simulators from 华模 (China Simulation Sciences), and cabin crew trainers from 维德 (Vader Air).