Location:

Current rule
CASR Part 60 – Synthetic training devices

CASR Part 60 was developed to update, consolidate and replace rules found in Civil Aviation Order (CAO) 45.0, and documents FSD-1 and FSD-2, that define requirements for flight simulators and synthetic trainers. Part 60 prescribes the rules for the design, operation and use of a broader range of devices known as Synthetic Training Devices (STDs).

Part 60 will allow pilots training in Australia to use a wider range of training aids. Previously pilots were permitted to use an actual aircraft, an approved flight simulator or synthetic trainer. The provisions in the Part will allow pilots to use an aircraft or the choice of STDs.

Part 60 has been developed initially in two stages:

  • The first stage dealing with STDs used in Air Transport operations has been concluded with the initial making of Part 60.
  • The second stage (Subpart 60.C) dealing with basic instrument flight trainers will be implemented with CASR Part 61 (Pilot Licensing).

Who Part 60 affects

  • Air Transport operators;
  • training and checking organisations;
  • flight training organisations;
  • pilots undergoing training; and
  • organisations who design, manufacture and supply STDs.

Key proposals

Flight Simulators

The key proposals developed and implemented under the first stage of Part 60's development were:

  • Number of device types to be increased to three as listed below in order of complexity
    • Synthetic Trainer;
    • Flight Training Device (FTD);
    • Flight Simulator;
  • Technical requirements for aeroplane flight simulators to be harmonised with ICAO, FAA and JAA;
  • Technical requirements for helicopter flight simulators will allow use of either the FAA or JAA standards;
  • Technical requirements for aeroplane and helicopter FTDs will allow use of either the FAA or JAA standards;
  • Existing CASA procedures to be updated to reflect international terminology and practices;
  • Current restriction which requires flight simulators to be operated by Air Operator's Certificate (AOC) holders to be removed; and
  • Process for recognition of foreign flight simulators to be simplified.

Synthetic Trainers (Subpart 60.C)

The maintenance, or development, of a unique Australian standard for synthetic trainers is not supportable. The following is proposed:

  • Existing synthetic trainers can retain their approvals whilst they maintain the standard that they were originally qualified against.
  • Additional units of currently approved synthetic trainer models (hardware / software configuration) can continue to be approved.
  • New synthetic trainer models must meet either the relevant FAA or JAA standard.

CASR Part 60