Completely digital simulators

WHILE many of the current simulator systems are entirely digital they nevertheless employ some analogue components, such as instruments and dials etc., which are representative replicas of the real thing. The stage has now been reached where it would be worthwhile considering an entirely new completely digital trainer having not the slightest resemblence to anything likely to be seen in an aeroplane. Such a system is currently being used for pilot navigation training at BOAC's Cranebank training centre at London's Heathrow Airport. This is a system where costs have been cut to the bone without sacrificing training efficiency which remains as thorough as anything currently in existence. It is, in fact, more thorough and compatible with the customers training requirement because the exercise conditions are readily available, and the indications are that it will be able to reduce the training time needed to reach the official standards required by the authorities. Furthermore, it has already revolutionised the whole of the navigation training procedures for pilots at the centre and is the outcome of close collaboration between the company and the customer.