Bring Immersive Flight Training to Your School

Can students log flight time in a TCS simulator?

It depends on whether the specific TCS device your school operates holds an FAA Letter of Authorization (LOA) as an approved Aviation Training Device (ATD). Without an LOA, simulator time cannot be logged toward certificate or rating requirements — though it remains extremely valuable for building procedural skills, cockpit familiarity, and reducing overall training time in the aircraft.

If your school is considering using TCS time toward loggable hours, confirm with TCS directly whether the specific device configuration you are purchasing holds a current BATD or AATD LOA, and verify the authorized uses listed in that letter before building it into your Part 61 or Part 141 curriculum. We recommend asking TCS for their current LOA documentation as part of the purchase conversation.

What is the difference between a BATD, AATD, and a non-approved simulator?

The FAA classifies approved training devices into two tiers under Advisory Circular 61-136B:

• BATD Basic ATD: Entry-level approved device. Generic cockpit, basic instruments. Suitable for foundational procedural training. (Up to 10 hrs instrument time toward IR; 2.5 hrs toward PPL)
• AATD Advanced ATD: Higher fidelity. Must represent a specific aircraft model, with full instrument panel and navigation systems. (Up to 20 hrs instrument time toward IR; broader credits toward CPL and ATP under Part 141)
• Non-approved: Consumer-grade software (e.g. Microsoft Flight Simulator, X-Plane on a home PC) with no FAA LOA. (Zero — cannot be logged toward any FAA requirement) For a device to be loggable, it must hold a current FAA LOA and be used in accordance with the specific authorized uses listed in that letter. An LOA is valid for 5 years and must be renewed by the manufacturer.

Does simulation time count even if it can't be logged?

Yes — significantly. The primary value of the TCS system is not logbook credit. It is the reduction in wasted time and cost in the aircraft. A student who arrives at their first dual lesson having practiced checklists, cockpit flows, basic maneuvers, and radio calls in a simulator is a fundamentally different student than one who has not.

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University found that students using the TCS learning system reduced their time to solo by 30%. That outcome doesn't require the simulator to be FAA-approved — it comes from consistent, structured, self-paced practice before the student ever touches the aircraft controls.

Think of non-loggable simulation time the way you think of chair flying, ground school, or studying approach plates: it doesn't go in the logbook, but it absolutely goes into the cockpit.

Does a school need a flight instructor (CFI) on staff to use a TCS simulator?

Not for the self-paced courseware. The TCS Virtual Flight Instructor system is specifically designed so that students can work through the 70+ lesson curriculum independently, without an instructor present. The structured Read → Watch → Do methodology, combined with LMS-backed progress tracking, enables students to build foundational skills on their own schedule.

However, if your school wants to use simulator sessions toward loggable instrument time or other FAA credit, an authorized CFI or CFII must be present for those specific sessions and must sign the logbook entry. This is an FAA requirement that applies to all ATDs, regardless of manufacturer.

For high schools and STEM programs with no flight staff, the self-paced, non-instructor model is fully viable and is how TCS has deployed systems at 20+ high schools nationwide.

What aircraft does the TCS simulator?

The standard VR Immersive Training Device is currently configured for the Cessna C172, the Diamond DA40, and advanced fighter-style aircraft. As the Cessna 172 is one of the most widely used training aircraft globally, this alignment ensures a direct transition from the simulator to the cockpit for student pilots.

The Mixed Reality platform also supports the Cessna 172 configuration. Furthermore, TCS has indicated that development is underway for other popular training aircraft. We recommend confirming the most up-to-date aircraft configurations with the TCS sales team during your purchase discussions.

Why flight simulation is perfect for STEM education?

TCS system goes beyond simple gaming; it’s a powerful, immersive educational tool that provides a structured and engaging way for students to learn.

• Hands-On Learning: Students take to the controls in a realistic virtual cockpit, directly applying physics, aerodynamics, and problem-solving skills.
• Safety and Repetition: Students can safely practice complex or even higher-risk maneuvers, such as engine failures, repeating lessons as many times as needed to achieve deeper levels of understanding and mastery. This makes learning effective, accessible and, most importantly, FUN!
• Real-World Application: The courseware prepares students for potential careers in aviation and other technical fields by teaching them practical skills and procedures.
• Automated Instruction: TCS Virtual Flight Instructor guides students through every step, allowing a single human teacher to supervise many more students at once. This system is so intuitive and self-paced that the supervising staff member doesn’t even need to be a pilot.

How do high schools typically afford VR flight simulators?

Most schools fund their programs through STEM / CTE grants, rather than direct budget allocation.

Common funding sources include:

• Perkins (CTE funding)
• State Aeronautical Commissions or Aviation Boards
• Workforce development initiatives

In many cases, TCS also supports schools in grant writing and application preparation, helping improve approval success rates.

Can local partners or sponsors support a school program?

Yes — many programs are supported through:

• Local flight schools or aviation businesses
• Workforce development organizations
• Regional employers investing in pilot pipelines

This can be combined with grant funding to make programs more accessible, especially for public schools.

Can our school try the simulator before purchasing?

Yes — TCS regularly conducts demo visits and roadshows for schools. These are typically free engagement events designed to:

• Introduce students to aviation
• Demonstrate the training system
• Help schools evaluate fit

How does the school demo / road tour work?

• Schools typically start with a Zoom or phone call
• TCS evaluates fit and interest level
• If aligned, they may schedule an on-site demo visit

Because the team travels extensively (~100,000 miles/year), demo visits are selective and prioritized for qualified schools.

What is the Skyfarer referral discount and how does it work?

Schools and training organizations introduced to True Course Simulations through Skyfarer qualify for an exclusive partner discount on their system purchase. This applies to both the VR Simulator ($48,000) and the Mixed Reality Simulator ($92,000).

To access the discount, simply submit your inquiry through the form on this page. Skyfarer will make a direct introduction to the TCS delicated team and ensure your partner referral is noted. No separate discount code is required — the discount is applied through the referral itself.

The regulatory information on this page is provided for general educational purposes and reflects FAA guidance under 14 CFR Part 61 and Advisory Circular 61-136B. It is not legal or regulatory advice. Always verify current FAA requirements and confirm your specific device's Letter of Authorization with True Course Simulations before incorporating simulator time into a training curriculum.