You have questions, we have answers. The most frequently asked questions are listed below. If you have a question not answered here, please contact us.

Gleim Virtual Cockpit® BATD Components (Video)

See the Gleim Virtual Cockpit® BATD components and learn the basics for using the system.

Tips for Using the Touchscreen Instrument Panel (Video)

Learn best practices for using and maintaining the Gleim Virtual Cockpit Touchscreen Instrument Panel.

Instructor Operating Station Tutorial (Video)

Learn how to use the Gleim Virtual Cockpit®️ BATD Instructor Operating Station, including:

  • Aircraft Selection
  • Setting Location
  • Weather Conditions
  • Monitoring the Flight
  • Recording the Flight

Logging Training Time in the Gleim Virtual Cockpit BATD (Video)

Learn about the types of flight training and limitations for crediting and logging training time in a basic aviation training device (BATD). The Gleim Virtual Cockpit BATD may be used for private pilot and instrument rating training, and also maintaining instrument currency in accordance with 14 CFR 61.57.

Connect your BATD to Foreflight
Geo-referencing your simulated aircraft's position on ForeFlight requires an update within the X-Plane preferences. Please contact our Technical Support team to make this change.

How do I update the navigation database?

Do you have a flight or training plan to maintain instrument currency?
You can maintain instrument currency in accordance with 14 CFR 61.57 just as you would in a real airplane. This essentially means flying 6 approaches, holds, and intercepting courses within the 6 months prior to a flight. Make sure you set up the weather conditions in the BATD to fly your approaches to minimums in order for them to count.

My instrument currency lapsed. Can I complete an Instrument Proficiency Check (IPC) using the BATD?
If your currency lapses, there is a 6 month grace period that you can use to “get current” again. This may be done in the BATD; however, an IPC must be completed in an airplane.

Are there any annual recurring charges to use the BATD?
There are no recurring charges to use the BATD. The Gleim X-Plane Flight Training Course Multi-User software has a 1-year license. This may be renewed upon expiration, and extended licenses are also available.

Can a single user install the Gleim X-Plane Flight Training Course home edition software and not have to purchase the annual multi user license?

The PC has 2 accounts: “SimLink” has the FAA approved software, and includes the course software with the multi user license. The “PC” account has non approved software and may be set up with the X-Plane Flight Training Course Home Edition. Flight time on the non-approved account does not qualify for training credit.

When does the BATD Letter of Authorization (LOA) expire? What happens when the LOA runs out?

The FAA issues LOAs for 5 years. The Gleim Virtual Cockpit LOA will expire in December 2025; however, we will plan to renew the LOA in advance to cover the current hardware and software design.

What's the warranty on the Gleim Virtual Cockpit BATD?

For complete details, please contact us.

Can I install any other 3rd party software add-ons for X-Plane or attach any 3rd party accessories or peripherals such as a GPS hardware unit to the BATD?
  • No.
  • The BATD must be set up configured in accordance with the Qualification Approval Guide (QAG). Modifying the BATD would be similar to modifying a certified aircraft and this will also void your warranty.
  • The BATD will connect with popular Electronic Flight Bag apps running on mobile devices via a wireless network connection only.
  • Navigraph is approved for installation to update the navigation database.
  • PilotEdge is also approved for use on the BATD.

When the Gleim Virtual Cockpit is used with the "PC" account in the non-approved mode, 3rd party software may be used. Note, that we do not recommend any 3rd party add-ons and the user must ensure that any add-ons are only used on the non-approved mode. Use of any other 3rd party add-ons (hardware or software) on the "SimLink" account will void your warranty and void the FAA approval.

Can I build the Gleim BATD using some of my own hardware?
  • No.
  • To ensure the system functions in accordance with the FAA Letter of Authorization (LOA), the BATD is only sold as a complete system.
  • We do not sell partial systems due to the inability to verify if a modified system meets our rigorous quality control checks and performance standards.
  • Any modifications to the BATD will void your warranty and invalidate the FAA approval.*

*Use of any other 3rd party add-ons (hardware or software) on the "SimLink" account will void your warranty and void the FAA approval.