Can AGIs Teach Simulator Instrument Training?
A practical interpretation of FAA legal opinion on whether AGI/IGI qualify as authorized instructors for simulator training.
Key Conclusion
AGI / IGI cannot provide simulator-based training that counts toward flight training requirements.
Why It Matters
Many assume:
Simulators are not real aircraft
Therefore ground instructors can teach in them
The FAA focuses on training classification, not location.
Core Logic
1. Instructor roles are strictly separated
Ground Instructor → ground training only
Flight Instructor → ground + flight training
👉 Only flight instructors can conduct flight training
2. Ground training excludes flight training
- Ground training = anything other than flight training
👉 This creates a strict boundary
3. Simulator training is treated as flight training
If training in a simulator:
Counts toward a rating
Can be logged
👉 It is treated as flight training
4. Privileges are exhaustive
Ground instructor privileges are fully listed
No authority to supervise simulator training
👉 Not listed = not permitted
5. FAA determination
Ground instructors are not authorized for simulator flight training
Training under them cannot be logged
Common Misunderstandings
❌ “Simulator training is ground training”
❌ “Any instructor can supervise training”
👉 The only standard: whether it is flight training
One-Sentence Summary
If the training counts as flight training, it must be conducted by a flight instructor, not a ground instructor.