Why APATS 2026 is Launching a Dedicated FSTD Regulatory Stream

As flight simulation technology and regulation evolve, APATS 2026 is introducing a dedicated Flight Simulation Training Device Operator (FSTDO) Regulatory stream to bring together regulators, Approved Training Organisations (ATOs), FSTD operators and simulator manufacturers for the first time.

In this video, Mark Dransfield, Independent FSTD Regulatory Consultant at Sim Ops and moderator of the new stream, speaks with Captain Philip Adrian, CEO of MPS, about why the discussions are needed now. They explore how major regulatory developments, notable EASA's new task-to-tool approach to FSTD qualification and oversight, will shape aviation training across the Asia-Pacific region and why greater collaboration between industry and regulators is essential.

Watch the conversation to hear why they believe APATS 2026 will provide an important forum for improving regulatory understanding, supporting harmonisation, and helping the industry move from compliance-driven training towards competency-based, evidence-based approaches.