What is the difference between FNPT II and FFS?

FNPT II (Flight Navigation Procedures Trainer) is a fixed-base simulator for instrument training, costing €50-150/hr. FFS (Full Flight Simulator) has full motion, visual systems, and exact cockpit replication, costing €200-400/hr. FFS is required for type ratings.

How much does MCC training cost?

MCC (Multi-Crew Cooperation) courses cost €4,000-8,000 depending on location and simulator type. Combined MCC/JOC on A320 or B737 simulators range €6,000-12,000. Eastern European providers offer lower prices.

Is MCC required for airline jobs?

MCC certification is required for multi-pilot aircraft operations. Most airlines require MCC before type rating. Some cadet programs include MCC. Completing MCC independently gives you more flexibility.

Can simulator hours count toward license requirements?

Yes, EASA allows specific simulator hours for training. Up to 5 hours FNPT for PPL, up to 40 hours for IR training on FNPT II. Always verify current regulations with your ATO.

Simulator Training Guide: FNPT II, FFS, and MCC Courses

Simulator training is essential for modern pilot careers. From basic instrument procedures on FNPT devices to full motion airline simulators, understanding your options helps you budget effectively and choose the right training path.

This guide covers simulator types, type rating requirements, MCC courses, costs, and how to select quality training providers.

Save on Simulator Training

Eastern European countries (Czech Republic, Poland, Lithuania) offer MCC/JOC courses at 30-50% lower prices than Western Europe with the same EASA certification.

Simulator Types Explained

EASA classifies flight simulation training devices (FSTDs) by capability and fidelity. Each level serves specific training purposes with different cost implications for your training budget.

Device	Motion	Visual	Primary Use	Cost/Hr
BITD	None	Basic	PPL procedures	€30-50
FNPT I	None	Generic	Basic instruments	€40-80
FNPT II	None	Enhanced	IR training, MCC	€50-150
FNPT II MCC	None	Type-specific	MCC/JOC courses	€80-180
FTD Level 1-2	Limited	Type-specific	Procedures training	€150-250
FFS Level D	Full 6-axis	Full visual	Type ratings	€200-400

FNPT Training

Flight Navigation Procedures Trainers are fixed-base simulators essential for cost-effective instrument and procedural training. Most EASA flight schools use FNPT II devices for instrument rating, allowing up to 40 hours to count toward your IR.

FNPT II Advantages

• Cost-effective instrument training
• Weather-independent scheduling
• Pause and repeat procedures
• Safe practice of emergencies
• Up to 40 hours count for IR
• Available at most flight schools

FNPT II Limitations

• No motion feedback
• Cannot replace all flight hours
• Generic cockpit layouts
• Limited for type-specific training
• Not valid for type ratings

Full Flight Simulator (FFS)

Level D Full Flight Simulators replicate exact aircraft systems with 6-axis motion platforms and 180°+ visual systems. Required for type ratings, recurrent training, and airline selection assessments.

FFS Level	Motion	Visual	Training Credit
Level A	3-axis	Day only	Limited procedures
Level B	3-axis	Day/dusk	Most procedures
Level C	6-axis	Day/night	Full type rating
Level D	6-axis enhanced	Full environment	Zero flight time TR

MCC and JOC Courses

Multi-Crew Cooperation (MCC) training teaches pilots to operate effectively in a two-pilot crew environment. Jet Orientation Course (JOC) adds jet aircraft handling. Most airlines require MCC before type rating.

Course	Hours	Simulator	Cost
MCC Basic	20-25 hrs	Generic FNPT II	€4,000-6,000
MCC + JOC	30-40 hrs	A320/B737 FNPT	€6,000-9,000
MCC + JOC (FFS)	30-40 hrs	A320/B737 FFS	€8,000-12,000
APS MCC	40-80 hrs	FFS Level D	€12,000-18,000

MCC Validity

MCC certification does not expire, but some airlines prefer recent completion (within 3 years). APS MCC (Airline Pilot Standards) is increasingly preferred by major carriers—verify requirements before choosing course level.

Costs by Region

Simulator costs vary significantly across Europe. Eastern European providers offer substantial savings with identical EASA certification.

Region	MCC/JOC	A320 TR	FFS/Hr
Western Europe	€8,000-12,000	€35,000-45,000	€350-450
Southern Europe	€6,000-9,000	€28,000-38,000	€280-380
Eastern Europe	€4,000-7,000	€14,000-25,000	€200-300
UK	£7,000-11,000	£30,000-40,000	£300-400

Choosing a Provider

Select your simulator training provider based on career goals, budget, and quality. Key factors to evaluate:

What to Look For

• EASA ATO certification
• Level D FFS qualification
• Instructors with airline experience
• Airline partnerships
• Graduate employment stats
• Flexible payment options

Red Flags

• Prices far below market
• No verifiable certification
• Cannot provide references
• Outdated equipment
• Hidden fees
• No assessment prep included

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