FlightSafety International Receives FAA Approval for Virtual Aircraft Preflight Inspection with Evaluation Mode

Three aircraft programs approved, with three more expected to receive approval in 2026

COLUMBUS, Ohio--(BUSINESS WIRE)--FlightSafety International Inc., the global leader in aviation training and simulation technology, today announced it has received Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approval for Virtual Aircraft Preflight Inspection (VAPI) with Evaluation Mode for three aircraft training programs: the Embraer EMB-550, Gulfstream G500/G600, and Citation Latitude.

This innovative capability allows pilots in initial training to complete a 3D virtual aircraft preflight inspection while 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,” said 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 programs—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 programs.

About FlightSafety International Inc.

FlightSafety International is the world’s preeminent professional aviation training company and supplier of flight simulators, visual systems, and displays to educational, commercial, government, and military organizations. In 2026, the company celebrates its 75^th anniversary, marking more than seven decades of advancing aviation safety through rigorous, real-world training programs delivered to pilots, technicians, and other professionals from 170+ countries. FSI currently operates a global fleet of advanced simulators at learning centers and training locations on six continents. For more information, please visit flightsafety.com.