FAA Certification Boosts Embry-Riddle's CAPT Program

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University has earned FAA certification of an MD-90 EFD Level-D full-flight simulator that the university plans to use in its Commercial Airline Pilot Training (CAPT) Program.

The device accurately replicates all of the operational ground and flight functions of the MD-90 EFD (enhanced flight deck) jet, which allows the FAA to consider flight time in this device to be equivalent to flight time logged in the actual aircraft. Level D is the highest fidelity rating given to flight simulators.

After completing their flight training in the simulator, cadets in the CAPT Program will receive a captain's type rating for an MD-90 EFD jet airliner.

"This certification is very important for us," said Paul Woessner, director of the CAPT Program. "No other aviation university except Embry-Riddle has a Level-D device, and no other is taking students from zero flight experience all the way through type rating for a modern jet airliner."

The simulator's cockpit features an all-glass integrated digital flight deck, incorporating six flat glass displays.

The CAPT Program is an elite program that blends proficiency-based flight training, aeronautical academics, and advanced simulation for individuals who want to become regional airline pilots. For students with zero flight time, the program takes at least 10 to 12 months.

FMI: www.erau.edu/capt