About
Redbird Flight Simulations is a leading provider of aviation training technology, offering a comprehensive lineup of FAA-approved and EASA-certified flight simulation devices for both professional flight training organizations and individual pilots. Their professional simulator line includes the MCX (full-motion, dual-control, starting at $104,900), the FMX (full-motion, single-control, starting at $79,900), and the SD (fully enclosed AATD, starting at $49,900)—all certified as Advanced Aviation Training Devices (AATDs). For home users and schools, Redbird offers the Jay, Jay Velocity, and TD desktop simulators, with prices starting at $2,995. These devices replicate real cockpit conditions and integrate advanced training tools previously found only on large professional simulators. Redbird's GIFT (Guided Independent Flight Training) program is a simulator-based maneuvers supplement designed to help flight schools produce better pilots at lower cost. The company also serves K-12 CTE/STEM programs with purpose-built educational simulators. Additional products include professional-grade hardware controls (Alloy RD1 rudder pedals), the Insight external debriefing station, and a rich library of training articles, webinars, and guides. Redbird simulators are used by flight schools, individual pilots maintaining proficiency, museums, and educational institutions worldwide.
Key Features
- FAA & EASA Certified Simulators: Professional simulators certified as AATDs and BATDs by the FAA and FNPT II by EASA, allowing flight hours logged to count toward pilot certificates and ratings.
- Full-Motion Professional Devices: The MCX and FMX simulators feature full-motion platforms and advanced cockpit fidelity, ideal for flight schools training student through professional crew level pilots.
- Affordable Desktop Simulators: The Jay, Jay Velocity, and TD lines bring professional training tools to individual pilots and schools at accessible price points starting at $2,995.
- GIFT Curriculum: Guided Independent Flight Training is a structured, simulator-based maneuvers program that supplements traditional instruction to reduce training costs and improve pilot outcomes.
- K-12 CTE/STEM Programs: Purpose-built simulator packages for middle and high schools, museums, and public kiosks designed to introduce students to aviation concepts and careers.
Use Cases
- Flight schools using full-motion AATDs to provide FAA-approved instrument and maneuvers training to student pilots at lower cost than aircraft time.
- Individual pilots using desktop simulators at home to maintain instrument currency and practice procedures between actual flights.
- Middle and high schools integrating Redbird desktop simulators into CTE/STEM programs to expose students to aviation science and career pathways.
- Museums and public education centers deploying the Jay Velocity simulator as an interactive kiosk for visitors to experience aviation.
- Commercial pilot training programs leveraging the MCX dual-control, full-motion simulator to train pilots transitioning to professional crew operations.
Pros
- Regulatory Approval: FAA and EASA certification means simulator time can be applied toward real-world pilot certificates and ratings, making training more cost-effective.
- Wide Product Range: Devices span from entry-level home simulators ($2,995) to full-motion professional rigs ($104,900+), covering virtually every training budget and use case.
- Integrated Training Ecosystem: Hardware, software, curriculum (GIFT), accessories, and educational resources are all available from a single vendor, simplifying procurement and support.
Cons
- High Entry Cost for Professional Units: Professional-grade simulators start at $49,900 and exceed $100,000, placing them out of reach for individual pilots or small organizations without financing.
- Hardware-Dependent: Unlike purely software-based solutions, Redbird's training devices require physical hardware, limiting accessibility for remote or software-only training scenarios.
- Aviation-Specific Niche: The platform is exclusively designed for aviation training, making it irrelevant for any other simulation or professional training domain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Redbird simulators approved for logging FAA flight training hours?
Yes. Redbird's professional simulators are certified as FAA-approved Advanced Aviation Training Devices (AATDs) or Basic Aviation Training Devices (BATDs), and EASA FNPT II devices, allowing pilots to log simulator hours toward certificates and ratings per FAA regulations.
What is the difference between an AATD and a BATD?
An Advanced Aviation Training Device (AATD) allows more loggable hours and supports a broader range of training tasks than a Basic Aviation Training Device (BATD). Redbird's SD, FMX, and MCX are AATDs, while the TD desktop unit is a BATD.
Can I use a Redbird simulator at home?
Yes. The Jay, Jay Velocity, and TD desktop simulators are designed for home or school use. While home use does not qualify for FAA-loggable hours in most cases, they provide excellent practice to maintain and build piloting skills.
What is the Redbird GIFT program?
GIFT (Guided Independent Flight Training) is a structured, simulator-based training curriculum for the Private Pilot certificate. It is designed to complement traditional flight instruction by allowing student pilots to practice maneuvers independently in a simulator, reducing overall training costs.
Does Redbird offer financing for simulator purchases?
Yes. Redbird offers simulator financing options to help flight schools and individuals manage the upfront cost of purchasing a professional flight training device. Contact their sales team for current financing terms.
