Articles
X-Plane 12 Review: The Flight Simulator Behind FAA-Approved Training Devices
Full review of X-Plane 12 by Laminar Research — the flight simulation engine that powers FAA-approved ATDs and offers the most aerodynamically accurate consumer flight simulator available.
simulatorsMicrosoft Flight Simulator 2024 Review: The Best Home Training Companion for Student Pilots
Full review of Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 as a home training tool for student pilots. Not FAA-approved, but the most visually realistic flight simulator available for procedure practice and airport familiarization.
softwareRedbird Manage Review: Fleet Scheduling and Instructor Tools
A review of Redbird Manage, the web-based management platform for scheduling sim sessions, tracking student progress, and organizing instructor workflows across Redbird ATD fleets.
softwareForeFlight Sim Review: Using Your EFB in the Simulator
A review of ForeFlight's simulator integration, covering how the popular EFB connects to approved ATDs for realistic flight planning and chart work during sim sessions.
simulatorsGleim Flight Experience BATD Review: The First FAA-Approved BATD Built on X-Plane
Full review of the Gleim Flight Experience BATD — an all-in-one FAA-approved basic aviation training device with X-Plane engine, built-in syllabus, and instructor operating station.
softwareCloudAhoy Review: Post-Flight Debrief and Analysis for Sim Pilots
A review of CloudAhoy, the post-flight debrief and analysis platform that integrates with major flight simulators and EFBs for maneuver detection and scoring.
simulatorsRealSimGear Cessna BATD Review: Genuine Garmin Hardware in an FAA-Approved Training Device
Full review of the RealSimGear Cessna BATD — an FAA-approved basic aviation training device built around genuine Garmin GNS 530W and G1000 hardware for Cessna 172 training.
simulatorsRedbird LD Review: The Best Full Enclosure AATD for Flight Schools
Full review of the Redbird LD — a full enclosure AATD with 180-degree visuals, instructor operating station, and maximum loggable hours for GA flight training.
simulatorsRedbird TD Review: The Best-Selling Desktop BATD in General Aviation
Full review of the Redbird TD desktop BATD — the most popular basic aviation training device in GA flight training. FAA-approved, X-Plane powered, and built for schools and home pilots.
guidesHow to Choose an ATD for Your Flight School
A practical guide for flight school owners on selecting the right aviation training device, covering BATD vs AATD economics, vendor comparison, space requirements, and the FAA LoA process.