Bird Dog Flight Services
FAA-Approved BATD Simulator
Log FAA-approved hours and practice complex IFR procedures in our advanced Gleim BATD simulator.
Program Overview
Don't let Texas weather ground your progress. Our advanced Gleim Basic Aviation Training Device (BATD) offers a highly immersive, FAA-approved environment. Perfect for mastering instrument procedures, practicing emergencies, or maintaining IFR currency without leaving the Fort Worth hangar.
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FAA-Approved BATD Simulator
Log FAA-approved hours and practice complex IFR procedures in our advanced Gleim BATD simulator.
$45 / hr
Book This Service What's Included
- Full access to the Gleim Virtual Cockpit BATD system
- Over 33,000 programmable instrument procedures worldwide
- Log FAA-approved training hours (up to 2.5 PPL, 10 IR)
- Practice emergency scenarios safely without leaving the ground
- Save over $125/hr compared to practicing in the actual aircraft
- Note: Standard instructor fee ($60/hr) applies if dual instruction is required
Frequently Asked Questions About the BATD Simulator
Can I log these simulator hours toward my pilot license?
Yes! Under FAA regulations, you can legally log up to 2.5 hours toward your Private Pilot certificate and up to 10 hours toward your Instrument Rating using our approved Gleim BATD. This is a fantastic way to save money while fulfilling your FAA minimums.
Do I need an instructor with me to use the simulator?
It depends on your goal. If you are a student logging dual instruction time toward a new rating (like your PPL or Instrument Rating), a Bird Dog CFI must be present. However, if you are an already instrument-rated pilot looking to maintain your currency, you can rent and fly the simulator solo!
What exactly can I practice in the BATD?
The simulator is the perfect environment for high-repetition practice. You can master instrument approaches, holding procedures, intercepting and tracking navigational courses, and running through complex emergency checklists (like engine failures in hard IMC) that are too risky to simulate in a real aircraft.
Does the simulator feel like flying a real airplane?
The Gleim BATD offers a highly immersive experience. It features realistic flight controls, physical rudder pedals, and an advanced wrap-around visual system. While it is a static device (it doesn't physically move), the instrument panel, avionics, and flight physics accurately replicate the aircraft you fly on the flight line.
If I am enrolled in the LOFT Career Program, is simulator time included?
Yes, simulator sessions are deeply integrated into our Above-the-Standard syllabus, particularly during your Instrument and Commercial phases. Using the simulator helps ensure you grasp complex procedures on the ground so your actual flight time is spent perfecting them, not just learning them.
How do I book time in the simulator?
You can schedule simulator blocks just like you schedule a normal flight lesson. You can coordinate directly with your Bird Dog mentor-instructor to integrate it into your weekly schedule, or contact our dispatch desk to reserve a block of time.
Still have questions?
If you have any other questions, please get in contact!
Ready to Get Started?
Fill out the form to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards achieving your aviation goals.
