How to log simulator (FSTD) sessions in your logbook

Simulator training is a big part of modern pilot training — from FNPT sessions in the ATPL course to full flight simulator checks for a type rating. In an EASA logbook it has its own section, separate from flight time.

The FSTD section

EASA-style logbooks have an "FSTD session" block with three columns:

• Date of the session
• Type of training device (for example FFS A320, FNPT II MCC)
• Total time of session

Simulator time is not flight time

FSTD time is not added to the total time of flight. Keep the flight columns empty on a simulator line: no departure, arrival, aircraft or total. The session total goes only in the FSTD column and is summed separately at the bottom of each page.

Some licensing requirements accept a limited amount of FSTD time towards experience requirements — check the specific requirement before counting it.

Writing the type of device

Be specific: the device category and the aircraft it represents. Good examples:

• FFS A320
• FFS B737-800
• FNPT II MCC
• FNPT II (generic SEP)

Remarks

Use the remarks column for what matters later: "LPC", "OPC", "Type rating session 4", the examiner's name, or the training organisation.

In The Pilot Log

When you fill the FSTD section, the flight columns of that line are emptied and locked automatically, so a session can never be counted as flight time by mistake. Type "4" in the session time and it becomes 4:00. FSTD totals are kept apart in every page total and in your statistics.

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