What Flightdeck Solutions does

Flightdeck Solutions (FDS), founded in 1999 by Peter Cos, is a Canadian manufacturer of professional-grade flight training devices (FTDs) and cockpit components serving commercial airlines, academic institutions, aerospace R&D organizations, airframe OEMs, and the entertainment market. The company designs and builds full-scale, 100% tactile cockpit replicas for major commercial aircraft types including the Boeing 777, 787, 747, 737NG, and 737MAX, the Airbus A320, the Dash 8 Q400, and the Cessna 208B Grand Caravan. Core technical differentiators include the proprietary IBL (Integrated BackLighting) panel system, modular nose section designs that fit through standard doorways, E-Series high-speed Ethernet component architecture, and integration with third-party avionics software suites (Sim-Avionics, ProSim, Aerowinx PSX, PMDG, Jeehell). Beyond complete trainers, FDS sells individual components such as PRO-MX CDU/MCDU units, crew seats, circuit breaker walls, and interior liners, plus custom-engineered solutions including mobile trailer-mounted cockpits and VIP demonstrator devices. Devices carry multiple regulatory certifications including FAA AATD, Transport Canada Level 2/MCC, EASA FNPT 2/MCC, and Korea KOCA Level 4.

FDS generates revenue primarily through direct sales of complete flight training devices (quote-based pricing, custom-built per customer specifications) and individual components (some with published pricing on the e-commerce website, e.g., E-Series PRO-MX CDU at $1,395.95 CAD) shipped globally. The go-to-market is sales-led, supplemented by event participation (UAA Collegiate Aviation Education Conferences, Boeing defense trade shows) and a European channel partner (Flightsimtech GmbH). Named customers include Boeing (largest customer for 13+ years), DHL Air UK, Air Canada, Southwest Airlines, Eastar Jet, Omni Airlines, Air Premia, Korean Air, the University of Nebraska Omaha, BCIT, Svensk Pilotutbildning, BAE Systems, and others. The company operates from a 10,000 sq ft headquarters and manufacturing facility in Newmarket, Ontario (expanded in November 2024), and remains privately held and founder-owned with no external institutional investment, private equity, or venture capital backing evidenced in available sources.

Name

Flightdeck Solutions

Legal name

Flightdeck Solutions, Ltd.

Website

https://flightdecksolutions.com

Company type

Private

Founded year

1999

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

11–50 employees

Short description

Flightdeck Solutions is a Canadian manufacturer of professional-grade flight training devices and cockpit components. The company produces full-scale tactile cockpit simulators for Boeing and Airbus aircraft, plus modular components, serving commercial airlines, academic institutions, aerospace R&D, and entertainment markets globally.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Headquarters

HQ city

Newmarket

HQ country

Canada

HQ region

North America

Offices1 record

Markets served

GTM type

B2B

Offering type

Hardware or Manufacturing

Cost components

Supply Chain, Personnel, Operations, Technology or R&D, Infrastructure, Marketing or Sales

Revenue model

1. Complete Flight Training Devices (FTDs): FDS manufactures and sells turnkey fixed-base flight training devices ranging from non-certified procedural trainers to advanced Level 4 certified FTDs. Devices are sold as complete cockpit systems configured for specific aircraft types (B737NG, B737MAX, A320, B777, B747, B787, Dash 8-Q400, C208B). Pricing varies by configuration and certification level; devices are custom-built to customer specifications.
2. Flight Deck Components: FDS sells individual cockpit components including PRO-MX CDUs/MCDUs, MCP/EFIS units, throttle quadrants, nose sectionals, circuit breaker walls, crew seats, and avionics software (Aerowinx PSX, NG-FMC-and-More). Components are sold directly through the website store with published pricing for some items and quote-based pricing for larger/custom components.
3. Custom-Built and Bespoke Engineering Solutions: FDS designs and builds custom flight simulators for unique applications including mobile trailer-mounted cockpits (KC-46A), VIP demonstrator devices, R&D lab units, and entertainment simulators. These are bespoke projects with custom pricing, timelines, and engineering requirements.
4. Avionics Software Resale: FDS resells avionics software including Aerowinx Precision Simulator (PSX) and NG-FMC upgrade packages as part of their component offering.

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion3 records

Distribution channels4 records

Marketing channels7 records

Core offering

Flightdeck Solutions (FDS) manufactures and sells full-scale Flight Training Devices (FTDs) and individual cockpit components for commercial and academic aviation training. The product portfolio includes turnkey fixed-base simulators for B777, A320, B737MAX, B737NG, B787, B747, Dash 8-Q400, and C208B aircraft, plus standalone components such as PRO-MX CDU/MCDUs, modular nose sections, circuit breaker walls, interior liners, and professional crew seats. Devices use proprietary IBL (Integrated BackLighting) panels, E-Series high-speed Ethernet interfaces, and real aircraft components, and are available in configurations ranging from non-certified procedural trainers to FAA AATD, Transport Canada Level 2/MCC, EASA FNPT 2/MCC, and KOCA Level 4 certified units.

Product overview

Flightdeck Solutions is a flight simulation hardware manufacturer offering a portfolio of turnkey Flight Training Devices (FTDs) for commercial and academic aviation training. The product line centers on full-scale cockpit simulators for major aircraft types including Boeing 777, 787, 747, 737MAX, 737NG, Airbus A320, Dash 8-Q400, and Cessna 208B Grand Caravan. These devices share common architectural elements: proprietary IBL (Integrated BackLighting) panels, modular nose sections, real aircraft components (yokes, columns, crew seats), and integration with third-party avionics software suites (Sim-Avionics, ProSim, Aerowinx PSX, PMDG, Jeehell). Beyond complete trainers, FDS sells individual components including E-Series PRO-MX CDU/MCDU units with Ethernet connectivity, modular nose sections, circuit breaker walls, interior liners, and professional crew seats. The company also offers custom engineering services for unique requirements, evidenced by Boeing KC-46A mobile cockpit trailers and VIP aircraft mock-ups. Certification pathways include Transport Canada, FAA AATD, EASA FNPT 2/MCC, and Korea KOCA standards.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Products and services

• B777 Flight Training Device (FTD) Full-scale representation of the Boeing 777 flight deck covering instrument panel, glare shield, aisle stand, primary and aft overhead, flight controls, shell/interior, and crew seating. Features real aircraft yokes, fully motorized throttle quadrant, and IBL series panels. Sold to commercial airlines (e.g., DHL Air UK) and training organizations.
• A320 Flight Training Device (FTD) Full-scale representation of the Airbus A320 flight deck including instrument panel, glare shield, aisle stand, primary and aft overhead, flight controls, shell/interior, and crew seating. Features Pro-MX thrust lever unit, FCU and EFIS devices, sidesticks, and custom lambswool upholstery seats. Available with EASA FNPT 2/MCC certification.
• B737MAX Flight Training Device (FTD) Certified full-scale representation of the B737MAX revised large format glass flight deck. Covers instrument panel, glare shield, aisle stand, primary and aft overhead, flight controls, shell/interior, and crew seating. Available with Transport Canada Level 2/MCC and FAA AATD certification.
• B737NG Flight Training Device (FTD) Full-scale representation of the Boeing 737NG flight deck covering instrument panel, glare shield, aisle stand, primary and aft overhead, flight controls, shell/interior, and crew seating. Features proprietary modular nose section, throttle quadrant, real aircraft yokes and columns. Deployed at UNO, Eastar Jet, BAE Systems, and other institutions.
• B787 Flight Training Device (FTD) Flagship FTD device offering full-scale representation of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner flight deck. Features detailed simulation of panel layouts, flight controls, FMS, aircraft systems and FMS logic with accurate interior liner set and outer shell. Deployed at Air Premia and Korean Air (via Boeing).
• B747 Flight Training Device (FTD) Full-scale representation of the Boeing 747 flight deck covering instrument panel, glare shield, aisle stand, primary and aft overhead, flight controls, shell/interior, and crew seating. Features fully motorized throttle quadrant, Pro-MX level MCP and EFIS devices.
• Dash 8 Q400 Flight Training Device (FTD) Full-scale representation of the Dash 8 Q400 flight deck covering various primary sections. Professional training device with full-scale cockpit, real aircraft parts, and instructor station. Deployed at BCIT Aerospace Technology Campus.
• C208B Grand Caravan Flight Training Device (FTD) Professional Cessna 208B simulator featuring full-scale cockpit, real aircraft parts, and instructor station. Level 4 compliant. Ideal for flight schools and training organizations. First C208B FTD Level 4 compliant in Central America (IFA Costa Rica, operational Q2 2025).
• E-Series PRO-MX CDU/MCDU Professional-grade Control Display Units for B737MAX, B737NG, A320, B777, and B747. Features High-Speed Ethernet interface, aircraft-quality switch components, dimmable LCD brightness, accurate aircraft key shapes, all-metal construction, real aircraft DZUS fasteners, built-in desktop stand, and HDMI/Ethernet connectivity. Compatible with Sim-Avionics, ProSim, PMDG, Zibo Mod, and FS2020. Thousands of units in circulation globally.
• Modular Nose Section (NS6) Proprietary modular nose section design for B737NG and B737MAX trainers. All-metal aluminum design, easily shipped in small carton, super accurate window shapes, assembles in hours with basic tools. Available in raw aluminum or powder-coated finish. Only sold for use with FDS shell units.
• B737 Circuit Breaker (CB) Walls B737 circuit breaker walls with all aluminum structure, knock-down design for simplified shipping, black powder coated finish, over 300 replica circuit breaker units (injection molded), accurate decal set. Only sold for use with FDS shell units.
• NS6 Interior Liners Interior surface components for B737NG and B737MAX that accurately present the aircraft interior. Precision tooling for accurate shapes, proper cosmetic look and feel, pre-trimmed and installation ready. Only sold for use with FDS shell units.
• Professional Crew Seats (B737NG/MAX and B777) Aircraft replica pilot seats in Captain and First Officer versions. Features include electronic vertical seat adjustment, built-in pneumatic back support, genuine lambswool seat covers, functional armrests, J-Rail entry system. B737 version in Blue/Grey or Tan/Brown; B777 version includes stow-away armrests and enhanced stainless-steel components.
• Aerowinx Precision Simulator (PSX) Highly detailed B747-400 flight and systems simulator. Models combi, freighter, passenger, and ER variants with complete dual FMC, FANS-1, over 500 malfunctions, autopilot/F/D, flight control system logic, comprehensive EICAS, EGPWS, TCAS, electrical CBs with 1000+ relays, and detailed fuel/hydraulic/pneumatic systems. Priced at $449.95 CAD as a perpetual license.
• NG-FMC and More (PSX Upgrade)

Quantifiable outcome

• Eastar Jet achieved Level 4 certification from Korea's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport within 3 months of installation (January–April 2024). Certification renewed April 2025 under updated FAA-aligned Korean regulations.
• +5 more outcomes

Named customers16 records

Segments6 records

Ideal customer profiles6 records

Technology focussed No

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Integration11 records

Feature7 records

Partnerships

Nine partnerships are on record, tiered minor, core and flagship.

• ProSim Training Solutions B.V. (Conference Co-exhibitor)minorGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 September 2024At the 2024 UAA Collegiate Aviation Education Conference, FDS co-exhibited with ProSim. ProSim representative Carlos Andres Moran showcased FMS Desktop Training Solutions and set up test flight scenarios in the FDS A320 trainer. Joint marketing to academic audience.
• Flightsimtech GmbHcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorFlightsimtech GmbH serves as Flightdeck Solutions' official European Representative, managing sales, customer relationships, and support across European markets. They participated in competitive bidding and won the mydays GmbH contract for FDS simulators in Berlin, demonstrating FDS's reliance on regional channel partners for international market penetration.
• Sim-AvionicscoreTechnology or IntegrationSim-Avionics is FDS's primary avionics software partner for B737NG, B737MAX, B777, and B787 simulators. All Ethernet (E-Series) modules are fully interfaced with Sim-Avionics. FDS's high-level devices use Sim-Avionics as the chosen avionics suite for several aircraft types.
• ProSim Training Solutions B.V.coreTechnology or IntegrationProSim provides avionics software for FDS B737NG, B737MAX, and A320 simulators. FDS and ProSim co-exhibited at the 2024 UAA Collegiate Aviation Education Conference. ProSim's B737 CDU and MCP/EFIS interfaces are supported, with further development underway for SYSBoards and additional aircraft types.
• Aerowinx (PSX)coreTechnology or IntegrationAerowinx Precision Simulator (PSX) is the chosen avionics suite for FDS's B747-400 FTD. FDS resells Aerowinx PSX software as part of its product portfolio. The partnership includes a Next Generation FMC upgrade package (NG-FMC-and-More) for B744 simulation.
• BoeingflagshipStrategic or Co-development PartnerBoeing has been FDS's largest customer for over 13 years, commissioning custom-built simulators for promotional campaigns (KC-46A Pegasus mobile trailer), aircraft demonstrators (Korean Air 787 Dreamliner), defense programs (P8A Poseidon), and R&D applications. Boeing supplied 787 pilot seats for the Korean Air project. FDS has worked on classified and VIP programs for Boeing Defense, Space & Security.
• HoneywellminorOEM/ Whitelabel/ Licensing PartnerHoneywell is listed among FDS's customer logos on the company website, indicating a commercial relationship. FDS has worked with major aerospace companies including Honeywell on OEM supply arrangements.
• L3HarrisminorOEM/ Whitelabel/ Licensing PartnerL3Harris is listed among FDS's customer logos, indicating a commercial relationship. FDS serves various Tier 1 aerospace suppliers as customers for training devices and components.
• GE AviationminorOEM/ Whitelabel/ Licensing PartnerGE Aviation is listed among FDS's customer logos. FDS has worked with major aviation technology companies and serves their training device needs for aerospace component development and demonstration.

Scale indicators8 records

Recent moves7 records

Expansion highlights6 records

Broad incumbents

• CAE: CAE is the global leader in civil aviation training and a top-tier manufacturer of full-flight simulators. While FDS operates in the FTD segment below CAE, CAE's training services and simulators are the incumbent alternative FDS devices displace in airline in-housing decisions.
• SimuFlite (FlightSafety International): SimuFlite, part of FlightSafety International, is a major provider of pilot training and simulation services to business aviation and commercial operators. It represents a broad incumbent with significantly greater scale, full-flight simulator capability, and training center footprint.

Direct peers

• TRU Simulation + Training: TRU Simulation + Training (a Textron Aviation subsidiary) manufactures full-motion simulators, FTDs, and aviation training devices for commercial and general aviation. It directly overlaps with FDS in FTD production and competes for the same airline, academic, and OEM customers.
• Frasca International: Frasca International is a US-based manufacturer of flight training devices, simulation equipment, and high-fidelity cockpits serving airlines, flight schools, and universities. It is one of FDS's closest direct competitors in the FTD/ATD market with similar product breadth across general aviation, business, and airline platforms.
• Precision Flight Controls: Precision Flight Controls builds flight simulation hardware including yokes, throttles, rudder pedals, and complete cockpit components for the professional and enthusiast simulation market. It is a direct peer in the hardware-component niche and overlaps with FDS's CDU/avionics software reseller positioning.
• Reiser Simulation and Training: Reiser Simulation and Training is a German manufacturer of full-flight simulators and FTDs serving commercial airlines, helicopter operators, and military customers. Comparable European competitor with overlapping FTD and helicopter simulation offerings.

Emerging players

• Ryan Aerospace: Ryan Aerospace is an Australian-headquartered developer of cost-effective helicopter and fixed-wing flight simulation training devices, including VR-based trainers for military and civil customers. Comparable niche FTD manufacturer with overlap in flight school and defense segments.
• Sim-Industries: Sim-Industries is a Dutch manufacturer of professional Boeing 737NG and 737MAX full-motion and fixed-base simulators targeted at airlines, training organizations, and the entertainment market. Directly overlaps with FDS's B737 FTD line and competes for similar European and global customers.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses4 records

Competitive moat6 records

Key risks6 records

Key highlights6 records

Customer concentration

• Facebookfacebook.com/flightdecksolutions
• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/flightdeck-solutions

Compliance4 records

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles1 record

Subsidiaries1 record

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about Flightdeck Solutions