MPS Airbus A320 and Boeing B737-800 flight simulators are full cockpit / full flight deck, flight simulators.
The cockpit is an exact replica of the original aircraft. Every flight control, switch, gauge or screen is identical in look and feel compared to the original aircraft.The cockpit is based on an original B737-800 or A320 cockpit. Pilots in training will experience a seamless transition switching between fixed base and full motion flight simulators or switching from flight simulator to the flight deck of a real Boeing 737-800 or Airbus A320.
All moving flight controls of the flight simulators are equipped with control loading (force feedback), this together with a 200 degrees visuals and optional collimated level-D visual display; provide a realistic and professional training environment.
Both our Airbus A320 and Boeing 737-800 flight simulators are fixed base flight simulators. There is no hydraulic platform. The result is a significant cost saving, both in purchase cost and operating cost of the hydraulic platform. The lower volume results in significantly reduced housing cost.
Frequently Asked Questions about MPS simulators
When will the simulator be certified?
The simulator will be certified at the factory in The Netherlands. After approval by local EASA authorities and after acceptance by the client, we will ship the simulator to its destination. The Dutch CAA/EASA representative will provide a “Statement of Compliance” certifying that the simulator complies and performs in accordance with the JAA/EASE regulations. After installation on site with the client, the local authorities from that region can inspect the simulator for certification. All document related to the EASA certification will be provided with the simulator.
Do I need to re-certify the simulator in my own country?
Yes. Whenever a simulator is moved from it’s location, it needs to be re-certified. Each country has different regulations and ways to certify simulators. Based on the QTG that we produce and the “Statement of Compliance” from the EASA certification, the certification process in your country should be an easier process as many authorities validate some tests that are previously done in The Netherlands.
What level of certifications is possible?
Depending on the intention of training, the simulator can be produced and approved as: MCC, FTD1, FTD2 (EASA) or FAA Level 4 or Level 5 (and any equivalent).
Who will do the certification in my country?
It is responsibility of the client to request certification of the simulator in its designated country. MPS have a specialised team that can assist during the certification process.
Is the simulator upgradable?
The simulator is upgradable to the highest level in the fixed base range. MCC is upgradable to FTD 1 or FTD 2. It is also possible to upgrade just the visual system form Direct Projection to Collimated Visual (MCC).
To what level is the simulator upgradable?
The simulator is upgradable to the highest level in its range; FTD 2 (FAA - Level 5).
Is the simulator upgradable to Full Flight Simulator?
Unfortunately this is not possible. The construction does not allow certain impacts the motion platform can generate.
To what fidelity is the hardware produced?
The hardware is produced to the highest fidelity in order to create a realistic feel of the cockpit. Our design team has worked for many years to produce quality hardware that is durable. The cockpit is a realistic replica of the aircraft and simulates the same feel and touch.
Do I have any warranty?
Yes. You will have a 12 month warranty on all parts. After 12 months the parts will be provided at repair/replacement cost.
Who will provide the maintenance?
MPS will provide the maintenance. MPS has a 24 hour support team that can remotely assist you with any problem that may arise. The system is developed so that failures are recognised and uploaded via a maintenance log and send to MPS on an hourly basis. Our support team can assist in online support and re-assign switches or avionics in order to minimise your down time wherever this is allowable in your training circumstances.
Are the components easy replaceable?
Yes. The simulator is designed that components can easily be replaced. For example, the Hydraulic Panel on the overhead panel can be removed with four quick release screws and by disconnecting the plug. A new module that is dispatched within 24 hours can replace this module. We will ask you the place the faulty module in the same box and return it with the same courier back to MPS service centre.
I have a faulty component, when can I expect a new one?
Upon recognising a faulty component, the new replacement component is dispatched by courier within 24 hours.
I am in the Asia Pacific region. Will this affect my support (time change)?
No. Despite that MPS gives you a 24/7 support, we also have a technical team in Asia whom are trained and can response on short notice in case of any complex mechanical issue or replacement of complicated parts (ie replacing parts on control loading system).
How often can I expect updates?
We try to minimise the updates so we aim for 2 updates per year. In case an Airworthiness Directive orders a specific change within a certain time frame, we will adhere to this time frame as well. Navigation updates are done on 28 days basis for FTD1, FTD2 or equivalent.
Do I have to pay for these upgrades?
No. All software and NAV-data upgrades are part of the service agreement with MPS.
How many airport visuals are available for the flight simulators?
The flight simulators are equipped with level D airport visuals provided by RSI Visual Systems. All Airport visuals that RSI Visual Systems currently provide can therefore be loaded into both our Airbus A320 and Boeing 737 flight simulators.
How many airports are provided with the simulator?
We provide six (6) free airports of choice. Any additional airport can be purchased at a pre determined cost price.
Who will provide the navigation database?
MPS will provide a LIDO navigation database that is developed by Lufthansa. MPS is licensed to provide its clients with all the navigation updates.
How often are the navigation database updates?
This is done within 28 days and is uploaded to you as part of the service agreement.
What happens if there are system upgrades like TCAS or Autopilot?
Our software engineers develop the software in-house and the upgrade is provided to you free of charge as it forms part of the service agreement with MPS.
To what level is the autopilot operational?
The autopilot is functional to level D standard (including EGPWS etc).
What failures are programmable via the IOS?
Depending on the model simulator. The MCC has limited failures as MCC training does not require type specific failures. The other models have every failure programmable as Level –D standard. The list of failures can be found on…. or a list is available here PDF
We currently operate 2 full motion flight simulators (Boeing 737). They each require 4 hours of maintenance per day. Can you give me an idea of how many hours of maintenance per day are required for your Boeing 737 flight simulators? Minimizing simulator downtime due to maintenance is very important in our operation.
Based on actual feedback from operators that are currently running our Boeing 737 simulators, I would advice to reserve an 8 hour slot for maintenance once every 4 weeks, so about 1 hour of maintenance a week per flight simulator. If defects do occur, the can usually be fixed between sessions. The construction of our flight simulators is modular. In case of a defect, a module can be replaced in a matter of minutes