Buying a used full flight simulator is one of the most significant procurement decisions a flight training organization can make. The price range is wide — from several hundred thousand to several million euros — and the technical, regulatory, and logistical complexity is considerable.
This guide covers everything you need to evaluate before making a purchase: certification levels, what to inspect, how to assess value, what questions to ask the seller, and the most common and costly mistakes buyers make.
Step 1 — Understand the Certification Levels
Not all simulators are equal. Before evaluating any specific device, you need to know what certification level you require and what level the device holds.
Full Flight Simulators (FFS) are classified by regulatory authorities into levels based on fidelity. Under EASA (Europe), the levels run from Level A through Level D, with Level D being the highest fidelity and allowing for zero-flight-time type rating certification. Under the FAA (United States), the same hierarchy applies.
Flight Training Devices (FTDs) and Flight Simulation Training Devices (FSTDs) occupy the next tier — lower fidelity and correspondingly lower cost, but still usable for specific rating and recurrent training requirements depending on the jurisdiction.
Before viewing any device, confirm: which regulatory authority’s approval you need (EASA, FAA, CAAC, GCAA, or other), what level is required for your training program, and whether the device’s current approval is transferable to your jurisdiction.
Step 2 — Verify the Current Certification Status
A simulator’s paper certification and its actual current status can differ significantly. Always verify directly with the relevant authority:
- Confirm the simulator’s current qualification status — not what it was originally certified at
- Check whether the qualification is current or lapsed — lapsed qualifications require re-evaluation costs
- Verify that the OEM software version installed is still supported — unsupported versions may disqualify the device
- Request the most recent evaluation report from the regulatory authority
Step 3 — Assess the Physical Condition
Request a physical inspection before any commercial discussion. If you cannot visit in person, arrange for a qualified independent technical inspector to attend on your behalf. Key areas to assess:
- Motion system: Check for hydraulic leaks, actuator wear, and system response time — motion system refurbishment is one of the most expensive repairs
- Visual system: Resolution, field of view, and channel alignment — outdated visual systems significantly reduce usability and retraining appeal
- Instructor Operating Station (IOS): Software version, interface responsiveness, and availability of up-to-date scenario databases
- Cockpit condition: Control loading accuracy, panel wear, switch and circuit breaker functionality
- Computing systems: Age of host computers, availability of spare parts, software support lifecycle
Step 4 — Understand the True Total Cost
The purchase price is only part of the cost. Budget for the following before committing:
| Cost Item | Typical Range | Notes |
| Purchase price | €200K–€5M+ | Varies enormously by type, age, level |
| Dismantling and shipping | €50K–€200K | Depends on origin and destination |
| Reinstallation and alignment | €30K–€100K | Requires OEM or certified technician |
| Re-certification / evaluation | €20K–€80K | If moving jurisdiction or lapsed status |
| Visual system upgrade | €100K–€500K | Often needed on older devices |
| Annual maintenance contract | €100K–€400K/yr | Essential — budget from day one |
Step 5 — Questions to Ask the Seller
- What is the reason for sale?
- How many hours has the simulator logged in the last 12 months?
- Is the current maintenance contract transferable, and with which provider?
- What is the current software version, and when does OEM support for it end?
- Have there been any major component replacements in the last 3 years? If so, documentation?
- Is the certification current, and will the selling organization support the transfer process?
- Are spare parts included in the sale, and what inventory exists?
Where to Find Used Simulators for Sale
AeroTradeHub’s marketplace lists full flight simulators, flight training devices, and related aviation training equipment from sellers worldwide. Browse current listings at aerotradehub.com/marketplace.
If you are looking to sell a simulator, listing on AeroTradeHub connects you with a global audience of qualified buyers.