An experimental comparison on the effectiveness of various levels of simulator fidelity on ab initio pilot training

Despite recent advances in technology use for education and training, the approach to pilot training over the past several decades has largely remained unchanged. Student pilots complete their training in actual aircraft, with very few flight hours conducted in flight training devices. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of various levels of simulator fidelity on ab initio pilot training. Thirty student pilots were invited to train using a virtual reality simulator, desktop simulator, or flight training device. Performance was evaluated using a modified Transport Canada Flight Test Guide alongside the NASA Task Load Index, Subjective Stress Scale, and Simulator Sickness Questionnaire, giving insight into mental workload, stress, and experience of simulator sickness, respectively. Findings show potential for virtual reality and desktop simulators regarding training procedural tasks; however, trainees must be aware of the limitations virtual reality and desktop simulators have concerning the training of aircraft handling tasks.