Simulator downgrade during an IR proficiency check
An examiner is conducting an IR proficiency check for a candidate in a Level D full flight simulator qualified for the A320. The check is about 60% complete when the motion system fails. The simulator operator switches the device to motion-off mode and tells the examiner that the device can continue because the visual system is still working. The examiner is not sure whether the qualification certificate permits motion-off credit for an IR proficiency check. The candidate has performed well so far. The operator says it will issue a technical log entry after the session. The examiner completes the remaining items in motion-off mode and is about to sign a pass. The candidate needs the check before his IR expires in three weeks. The FSTD has a valid qualification certificate, but the examiner has not seen the approved configuration list.
1. Can the examiner treat the completed session as a valid IR proficiency check?
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Not automatically. The examiner must establish whether the FSTD is operating within its qualification basis. A Level D device may have approved degraded modes, but motion-off operation is not necessarily approved for every credit. If the qualification certificate or the authority's approval does not permit motion-off for an IR proficiency check, the session cannot be counted as a valid check. The examiner should not sign a pass on the assumption that the visual system alone is sufficient. The valid qualification certificate is necessary but not sufficient; the specific configuration must be approved. The examiner should also consider whether the failed motion system affects the realism of the items already completed and whether the device's status was recorded at the time.
2. What should the examiner do when the motion fails?
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The examiner should pause the check and consult the FSTD qualification certificate and the operator's approved configuration list. If motion-off is permitted for the remaining items, the examiner may continue and record the status. If it is not permitted, the examiner should stop the check and reschedule it, either in a fully serviceable device or in an aircraft. The candidate should not be failed because of the device failure. The examiner should make a technical log entry and inform the operator and, if required, the authority. The priority is the validity of the check, not completing it quickly. The examiner should also avoid signing any document until the configuration question is resolved.
3. What are the implications for the candidate and for logging?
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If the check is invalid, the candidate does not obtain a pass and must retake the check. The incomplete session may be logged as training or experience but not as a passed proficiency check. If the check is valid under an approved degraded mode, the examiner must record the device identification, the failure, and the approved configuration in the check report. The candidate should keep a copy. The operator must ensure the device is restored and the qualification status is maintained. The candidate should not rely on the pass until the validity question is resolved. If the IR expiry is close, the candidate should book a replacement check promptly and not assume that the signed report will be accepted.