Editing Flight simulator (section)

=== Instruments ===
[[File:Simpic.jpg|thumb|Simulator with primary flight instruments replicated with flat displays]]

All classes of {{abbr|FSTD|Flight Simulator Training Device}} require some form of replicating the cockpit. As they are the primary means of interaction between the pilot and the aircraft special importance is assigned to [[Aircraft flight control system#Cockpit controls|cockpit controls]]. To achieve good transfer of skills, there are very specific requirements in the flight simulator regulations<ref name="CS-FSTD(A)" /> that determine how closely they must match the real aircraft. These requirements in case of full flight simulators are so detailed, that it may be cost-effective to use the real part certified to fly, rather than manufacture a dedicated replica.{{r|allerton2009|p=18}} Lower classes of simulators may use springs to mimic forces felt when moving the controls. When there is a need to better replicate the control forces or dynamic response, many simulators are equipped with actively driven [[Haptic technology#Force feedback|force feedback]] systems. Vibration actuators may also be included, either due to helicopter simulation requirements, or for aircraft equipped with a [[stick shaker]].

Another form of tactile input from the pilot are instruments located on the panels in the cockpit. As they are used to interact with various aircraft systems, just that may be sufficient for some forms of procedure training. Displaying them on a screen is sufficient for the most basic {{abbr|BITD|Basic Instrument Training Device}} simulators<ref name="CS FSTD(A).200" /> and [[amateur flight simulation]], however most classes of certified simulators need all buttons, switches and other inputs to be operated in the same way as in the aircraft cockpit. The necessity for a physical copy of a cockpit contributes to the cost of simulator construction, and ties the hardware to a specific aircraft type. Because of these reasons, there is ongoing research on interactions in [[virtual reality]], however lack of tactile feedback negatively affects users' performance when using this technology.<ref name="aslandereVirtualHandbuttonInteraction2015">{{cite Q|Q112826446}}</ref><ref name="tatzgernExploringInputApproximations2021">{{cite Q|Q112826551}}</ref>