FlightSafety International, an aviation training and simulation technology provider, has received FAA approval for Virtual Aircraft Preflight Inspection (VAPI) with Evaluation Mode for three aircraft training programmes: the Embraer Legacy 500/Praetor 600, Gulfstream G500/G600 and Citation Latitude.

This capability allows pilots in initial training to complete a 3D virtual aircraft preflight inspection whilst in Training Mode, with the added ability to transition directly into the flight deck, followed by Evaluation Mode, that allows pilots to do their preflight check ride portion.

“VAPI represents a meaningful advancement in training innovation,” says David Penney, VP of safety, courseware and regulatory affairs, FlightSafety International. “By leveraging an immersive 3D environment, it offers pilots a more engaging and practical way to develop aircraft familiarity, strengthen inspection discipline and better prepare for real-world operations.”

Three additional aircraft training programmes, namely the Gulfstream G280, Gulfstream G650 and Dassault Falcon 8X, are slated to receive Virtual Aircraft Preflight Inspection with Evaluation Mode in 2026. This will be followed by the Pilatus PC-12 and PC-24, Gulfstream G700/G800 and others.

VAPI is already available in select FlightSafety Learning Centers for the Citation Latitude and in all Falcon 8X, Gulfstream G280, G500/G600, G650, Pilatus PC-12, PC-24 and Embraer EMB-550 training programmes.