What is the FMGS/MCDU and why does it matter?
On the A320 family the brain of the flight is the Flight Management and Guidance System (FMGS), and the pilot talks to it through the MCDU. Learning this FMS flow (flight plan entry, performance, navigation) takes up much of a type rating. The AviaCoach virtual cockpit lets you practise the flow many times before you go to the type rating.
What is in the virtual cockpit?
- PFD (Primary Flight Display): attitude, speed and altitude tapes, FMA
- ND (Navigation Display): route, waypoint and navaid display
- EFIS and FCU: mode selection and the autoflight control panel
- MCDU / FMGS: F-PLN, SID/STAR, PERF and RAD NAV pages connected to a real AIRAC navigation database
Captain Hezarfen AI instructor
In the virtual cockpit an A320 type rating instructor persona, Captain Hezarfen, guides you step by step: he checks your flight plan entry, points out mistakes and explains the procedure like a real instructor.
Who is it for?
- Pilot candidates who want to learn the FMS/MCDU flow before their type rating
- Pilots transitioning to an Airbus type
- Anyone who wants to reinforce FMGS logic with real navigation data
Related
Start with the A320 virtual cockpit
The virtual cockpit and FMGS training are part of the Career plan.
See membership plans