The FAA approves ATD’s (Aviation Training Devices) under two categories, BATD (Basic Aviation Training Device) and AATD (Advanced Aviation Training Device.  BATD systems are primarily great for use when working towards a PPL (Private Pilot License), IFR (Instrument Rating), and Instrument currency allowing a user to log time/approaches towards these licenses and ratings.  An AATD expands the scope of logable training that can be done in the system to include time towards a CSEL (Commercial, Single Engine License), CFI/I (Certified Flight Instructor) and even ATP (Airline Transport Pilot).  AATD’s can also be used to perform most if not all of an IPC (Instrument Proficiency Check).  Generally a BATD system would be found in someone’s home and an AATD in a flight school environment, either system can be used in either scenario.

The table below is a summary of the differences between BATD and AATD class simulators.