Regulation Text
(a) Training courses using aircraft simulators and other training devices may be included in the program manager's training program if approved by the Administrator.
(b) Each aircraft simulator and other training device that is used in a training course or in checks required under this subpart must meet the following requirements:
(1) It must be specifically approved for—
(i) The program manager; and
(ii) The particular maneuver, procedure, or crewmember function involved.
(2) It must maintain the performance, functional, and other characteristics that are required for approval.
(3) Additionally, for aircraft simulators, it must be—
(i) Approved for the type aircraft and, if applicable, the particular variation within type for which the training or check is being conducted; and
(ii) Modified to conform with any modification to the aircraft being simulated that changes the performance, functional, or other characteristics required for approval.
(c) A particular aircraft simulator or other training device may be used by more than one program manager.
(d) In granting initial and final approval of training programs or revisions to them, the Administrator considers the training devices, methods, and procedures listed in the program manager's curriculum under § 91.1079.
The short answer
14 CFR § 91.1087 allows aircraft simulators and other training devices in a fractional program's training only if approved by the Administrator. Each device must be specifically approved for the program manager and the particular maneuver, procedure, or crewmember function, must keep its required characteristics, and simulators must match the type aircraft and any modifications.
Research Notes
Common Questions
When can a simulator or training device be used in Subpart K training?
Only if the course using it is approved by the Administrator, and the device is specifically approved for the program manager and the particular maneuver, procedure, or crewmember function involved.
"It must be specifically approved for— The program manager; and The particular maneuver, procedure, or crewmember function involved." — 14 CFR § 91.1087(b)(1)
What extra requirements apply to aircraft simulators specifically?
A simulator must be approved for the type aircraft (and any applicable variation within type) and must be modified to conform with any modification to the simulated aircraft that changes characteristics required for approval.
"Modified to conform with any modification to the aircraft being simulated that changes the performance, functional, or other characteristics required for approval." — 14 CFR § 91.1087(b)(3)(ii)
Can the same simulator be shared by more than one program manager?
Yes. A particular aircraft simulator or other training device may be used by more than one program manager.
"A particular aircraft simulator or other training device may be used by more than one program manager." — 14 CFR § 91.1087(c)
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