FFS vs FTD: HAVELSAN’s Two Simulator Classes
What is the difference between an FFS and an FTD? Both are simulators used in flight training, but they differ in fidelity and purpose. A Full Flight Simulator (FFS) is the highest-fidelity replica of an aircraft, complete with a motion system; a Flight Training Device (FTD) is usually fixed-base and focused on systems and procedures training. HAVELSAN produces both classes. This article covers the difference in an official frame.
For HAVELSAN’s simulator work, see our articles on the 12 civil simulators for Turkish Airlines and the Kahramankazan simulator facility.
What is a Full Flight Simulator (FFS)?
An FFS reproduces an aircraft type’s cockpit, systems and flight behaviour at the highest fidelity. With a motion system, a visual system and realistic sound/vibration feedback, it lets the pilot physically feel the aircraft. This high fidelity allows comprehensive training — including type rating — to be carried out without boarding the real aircraft.
What is a Flight Training Device (FTD)?
An FTD is usually a fixed-base device (with no motion system, or a limited one) focused on teaching an aircraft’s systems and procedures. The cockpit layout and system responses are realistic, but the full motion feel and visual completeness of an FFS are not required. An FTD is a cost-effective solution for procedure repetition and systems familiarisation.
Key differences
| Criterion | FFS (Full Flight Simulator) | FTD (Flight Training Device) |
|---|---|---|
| Motion system | Yes (full motion) | Usually none / limited |
| Fidelity | Highest | Systems/procedure focused |
| Typical purpose | Type training, full scenarios | Procedure and systems training |
| Cost/complexity | High | Lower |
Why does HAVELSAN produce both?
A training program is not built efficiently with a single class of device. Scenarios that demand high fidelity are run on an FFS, while frequently repeated procedure and systems training is done on an FTD. The package HAVELSAN produces for Turkish Airlines reflects this logic: the order comprises a mixed fleet of full flight simulators together with flight training devices.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most basic difference between an FFS and an FTD?
An FFS has a full motion system and the highest fidelity; an FTD is usually fixed-base and focused on systems/procedure training.
Can type training be completed on an FTD?
Comprehensive type training and full scenarios use an FFS; an FTD is more for procedure and systems familiarisation.
Does HAVELSAN produce both?
Yes; HAVELSAN produces both full flight simulators and flight training devices and offers mixed training packages.
Sources
- HAVELSAN, simulator products — havelsan.com
- HAVELSAN–Turkish Airlines simulator agreement, Anadolu Agency — aa.com.tr
