Ground Flying Trainers & Parts (Other Than Air Combat Simulators)

The FAA qualifies ground-based training devices under Advisory Circular AC 61-136, assigning levels from Basic Aviation Training Device (BATD) through Advanced Aviation Training Device (AATD) up to full Flight Training Device (FTD) qualification. Imported devices must undergo FAA evaluation and qualification before they can be used to log training time toward certificates or ratings in the US.

Air combat simulators (880521) are specifically designed to replicate combat mission scenarios, including weapons systems and threat environments. Ground flying trainers (880529) cover the broader category of procedure, systems, and flight-maneuver training devices not oriented toward combat employment. When a device has dual civil/military capability, the primary designed use and the end-user's intended application guide the classification decision.