Training System Device Certification and Qualification Process

Abstract

Training system devices are frequently used for aviation training to prepare students to fly aircraft. The use of training systems can be used to reduce the number of flight hours required for pilots and aircrew. The aviation training system device must be designed properly to ensure that necessary learning objectives are met. Certification is the last step in the test and evaluation process during the validation phase, within the systems engineering process, that ensures the system works as it was intended, and meets the user's need. Training System certification ensures the user that the training device can be used to properly meet certain learning objectives prior to flying. This thesis analyzes existing training system device certification processes and provides recommendations to the United States Navy, Naval Air Warfare Center Training Systems Division, for improvements.