From APATS to EATS: Mark Dransfield on the FSTD Capability Signature

At APATS this year, we spoke with Mark Dransfield, an independent FSTD consultant, about the new FSTDO regulatory stream he moderated. Looking ahead to EATS 2026, taking place 3-5 November, this conversation is more relevant than ever. With upcoming regulatory changes, it is important that the industry understands what those changes are, why they are being introduced, and what challenges lie ahead, so the transition goes as smoothly as possible.

Under EASA Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026/781, applicable from 30 April 2028, the FSTD Capability Signature (FCS) shifts flight simulation qualification from rigid device labels to actual task capabilities.

EATS 2026 will feature a FSTD Capability Signature session on Wednesday 4 November from 11:30 AM-1:00 PM, with Mark Dransfield, Gilad Scherpf at Lufthansa Aviation Training, Frederik Mohrmann from Areti One, and Ascanio Russo from EASA, moderated by Captain Salvador Costa Pereira.

This panel will discuss the regulatory timeline, evaluating how the voluntary framework impacts manufacturers, operators, and regulators. Attendees will also be provided a practical method for integrating FCS into competency-based training (CBTA) and evidence-based training (EBT) using targeted simulation fidelity. 

Russo then outlines the Agency's vision for standardized oversight and global alignment with the FAA and ICAO, offering delegates a clear roadmap from regulation to operational reality.