COLOGNE, July 15 2026 – The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has introduced a new regulatory framework for Flight Simulation Training Devices (FSTDs), marking the most significant evolution of flight simulation qualification in Europe in decades.
The new framework, established through Regulation (EU) 2026/781 and supported by new Certification Specifications (CS-FSTD Issue 1), modernises the way flight simulation training devices are qualified and used for pilot training.
Flight simulation training devices and other training devices play a critical role in aviation safety by allowing pilots to train, practise and maintain competencies in realistic conditions while improving training effectiveness and reducing the environmental impact and operational risk of the training exercise.
The new framework replaces the traditional qualification approach based on fixed simulator types and levels with a more flexible capability-based system. This allows training devices to be assessed according to their actual technical capabilities and provides a framework that can evolve alongside advances in simulation technology.
“Flight simulation has transformed pilot training over the past decades and will continue to play a central role in the future of aviation,” said Francesco Gaetani, Flight Standards Director at EASA.
“The new framework creates a modern and flexible system that reflects what training devices can actually do rather than how they have traditionally been classified. It supports innovation, enables new technologies to be integrated into training and helps ensure that pilots continue to receive effective, high-quality training in an evolving aviation environment.”
At the heart of the new framework is the new FSTD Capability Signature (FCS), a standardised method of describing the capabilities of a simulation device using defined FSTD features and fidelity levels.The framework also supports emerging technologies by introducing qualification requirements and guidance for innovative solutions, including touchscreen flight deck interfaces and extended reality (XR) applications.
In addition, the new rules introduce the optional task-to-tool training methodology, enabling Approved Training Organisations (ATOs) and operators to select the most appropriate simulation device for specific training objectives. This provides greater flexibility in the design of training programmes while maintaining high safety standards.
To support implementation of the new framework, EASA has launched an implementation support programme that includes guidance material, an implementation support manual and a series of stakeholder workshops beginning in late 2026 and continuing throughout 2027.
The first general information session is planned for December 15, 2026 at EASA headquarters in Cologne.
About the new framework
The new FSTD framework introduces:
- A capability-based qualification system for FSTDs;
- The FSTD Capability Signature (FCS);
- Qualification provisions for touchscreen-based flight deck interfaces;
- Qualification provisions and guidance for extended reality (XR) technologies;
- The optional task-to-tool training methodology;
- A scalable framework capable of supporting future simulation technologies.
Further Information
Further information on the new FSTD framework, implementation activities and supporting materials is available on the EASA website:
Flight Simulation Training Devices (FSTD) | EASA
Registration information for the implementation workshop programme will be published on the EASA website in due course.
