The term XR encompasses: Virtual Reality (VR) – when the environment out the window visual and flight deck is completely represented virtually on a head mounted display (HMD), Augmented Reality (AR) –when the real-world element is enhanced with a virtual overlay component using a see-through HMD, and Mixed Reality (MR) – when the real environment and computer-generated elements are merged.
Qualified Sponsors may apply for FAA evaluation and qualification of FSTDs equipped with XR technologies under the current 14 CFR Part 60 and applicable Qualification Performance Standards (QPS).
Because an XR system may essentially replace much of the physical flight deck environment with a virtual representation, alternate evaluation methods must be considered for qualification purposes and to ensure an adequate training environment.
Additionally, when a “replica” of the flight deck is required depending on the requested FSTD level, a Part 60 deviation request from the applicable QPS would be required by the Sponsor in accordance with 14 CFR § 60.15(c)(5). The deviation request must be supported by a gap analysis when applying the Part 60 standards and justification that the XR equipped FSTD will perform at least equivalently to a conventionally equipped FSTD in qualified training tasks. The deviation if/when granted would be contingent on conditions and limitations, such as successful FAA evaluation of the device, coordination with the Training Program Approval Authority (TPAA) on a process for tracking training effectiveness, and an update to the Sponsor’s Simulator Quality Management System (SQMS) manual to incorporate the FSTD using XR technology.
All remaining Part 60 regulatory requirements not addressed by a 60.15 (c)(5) deviation will still apply to FSTDs equipped with an XR system regarding the performance and handling characteristics as well as visual scene content requirements.
To date, FAA qualifications of FSTDs have been limited to Flight Training Devices (FTD) only due to the novelty of the XR technology. Latest FAA qualifications include the Loft Dynamics H125 level 5 FTD and Leonardo AW119 level 7 FTD.
FAA may consider future qualification of Full Flight Simulator (FFS) levels using XR systems, pending data collection and analysis as well as conclusion of multiple research projects.