When it comes to securing your dream airline job, the simulator assessment is a critical step in the selection process. Airlines use simulator checks to evaluate a candidate’s technical proficiency, handling skills, situational awareness, and decision-making abilities under pressure. Understanding what recruiters look for and how to prepare effectively can significantly boost your chances of success.

What Do Airline Recruiters Look For in a Simulator Assessment?

• Flight Handling and Technical Skills
  Recruiters assess your ability to fly the aircraft smoothly and accurately, adhering to standard operating procedures (SOPs). Precision in maintaining altitude, speed, and heading is essential, along with managing power settings effectively.
• Situational Awareness
  Pilots must demonstrate strong spatial awareness, anticipating upcoming events, and maintaining an understanding of their position in relation to airspace, weather conditions, and traffic.
• Decision-Making Under Pressure
  Airlines want pilots who can think critically, evaluate multiple solutions, and make sound judgments quickly. This includes responding effectively to simulated emergencies or operational challenges.
• Communication and CRM (Crew Resource Management)
  Strong communication with your co-pilot and the examiner is crucial. Airlines value pilots who exhibit teamwork, clarity in their instructions, and the ability to remain calm and composed.
• Adherence to Procedures and SOPs
  Airlines assess how well candidates follow checklists, callouts, and airline-specific SOPs. Deviation from established procedures may be seen as a red flag.
• Capacity to Learn and Adapt
  Examiners observe how quickly you can adapt to new scenarios and apply feedback. This is particularly important for pilots transitioning between aircraft types.

How to Prepare for Your Airline Simulator Assessment

Train with Professional Instructors

Investing in structured training with expert instructors, like those at pmFlight, ensures you receive targeted preparation for specific airline assessment profiles. pmFlight offers high-fidelity simulator sessions tailored to major airlines, including BA, EasyJet, Ryanair, Emirates, and more.

Understand the Airline’s Simulator Profile

Each airline has its own assessment profile, covering specific manoeuvres, procedures, and scenarios. pmFlight’s instructors have in-depth knowledge of these profiles, helping you prepare effectively.

Practice Handling the Aircraft Smoothly

Examiners prioritise precise handling. Focus on smooth control inputs, energy management, and instrument scan techniques to maintain stable flight.

Refine Your Non-Technical Skills

In addition to technical ability, work on CRM, workload management, and decision-making. Many assessments include scenario-based exercises to test these competencies.

Simulate Realistic Assessment Conditions

Training under realistic conditions—including time constraints, simulated failures, and high-pressure situations—prepares you for the actual test environment.

Brush Up on Instrument and Raw Data Flying

Some assessments include manual flying with no flight director or automation, testing fundamental pilot skills. pmFlight’s refresher training includes dedicated raw data and upper-air work to sharpen these abilities.

Debrief and Learn from Each Session

After every simulator session, review your performance to identify areas for improvement. pmFlight provides detailed post-flight debriefs to refine techniques and enhance your confidence.

Why Choose pmFlight for Your Airline Simulator Assessment Preparation?

• Expert-Led Training: Sessions are conducted by experienced airline captains and instructors.
• Tailored to Your Airline’s Requirements: Training designed specifically for BA, EasyJet, Ryanair, Emirates, and more.
• State-of-the-Art Simulators: Train in-house on high-fidelity Airbus A320 and Boeing 737 simulators.
• High Success Rates: Over 90% of BA candidates trained with pmFlight pass their assessments.
• Convenient Location: Located near London Gatwick for easy access.

Final Thoughts

A well-structured approach to simulator assessment preparation can be the difference between success and failure. Understanding what recruiters look for, refining your technical and non-technical skills, and training with experienced professionals at pmFlight will give you the best possible chance of securing your airline position.

Book your airline simulator assessment preparation session with pmFlight today and take the next step towards your aviation career!