Boeing’s 777-9 flight training simulators have moved closer to supporting airline entry into service after receiving initial qualification certificates from both the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). The approvals mark a critical regulatory milestone, enabling the devices to be used in the next phase of validated pilot training.
The qualification clears the way for the commencement of formal flight training activities, subject to regulatory validation of associated courseware. According to Capt. Gary Mandy, 777X Chief Technical Pilot, the approvals represent an important step towards ensuring operational readiness for future 777-9 operators. He emphasised that the immersive nature of the simulators will equip pilots with the proficiency required to transition effectively to Boeing’s latest wide-body aircraft.
Developed collaboratively by Boeing and simulator manufacturer CAE, the training devices are located at the Boeing Training Campus in Gatwick, UK. The installation includes a state-of-the-art full-flight simulator (FFS) and a flight training device (FTD), both engineered to replicate the 777-9’s advanced systems architecture. These systems-based simulators enable crews to train across the full operational envelope of the aircraft, covering normal, abnormal and emergency procedures within a highly realistic synthetic environment.
The devices integrate aircraft data, high-fidelity flight dynamics models and sophisticated environmental simulation software, ensuring accurate replication of real-world operating conditions. This level of technical fidelity is designed to meet stringent global regulatory standards while supporting airline training efficiency.
Following this initial qualification, regulators will use the simulators to validate and approve Boeing’s pilot training curricula before airline customers begin formal type-rating programmes. Boeing Global Services described the achievement as evidence of its commitment to delivering compliant, high-quality training solutions for international operators.
CAE highlighted that the certification reflects several years of joint technical development and validation work. The partners intend to continue their collaboration as additional full-flight simulators are delivered to airline customers worldwide, supporting the global introduction of the 777-9.
