In response to the growing complexity of cockpit environments and the increasing cost and limited availability of traditional simulators, ALTEN developed FAST (Flexible Advanced Simulation Tool) — a flexible, in-house prototyping tool for pre-validating new Human-Machine Interfaces (HMI). Since 2016, FAST has enabled aircraft manufacturers to quickly test cockpit concepts with pilots in a cost-effective, collaborative, and agile environment.

Challenges

As air traffic grows and cockpit technology evolves, pilots require continuous innovation in interface design. However, traditional simulators used for validating cockpit functions are heavily booked, expensive, and logistically constrained — especially during the pandemic, when strict health measures and limited access disrupted testing schedules and reduced pilot feedback loops. The industry needed a more accessible, flexible, and collaborative solution for early-stage HMI validation and pilot training.

Solutions

ALTEN addressed these challenges by designing FAST— an open, modular, and user-friendly prototyping platform that transforms how cockpit systems are tested and validated.

• Open and Collaborative Environment: Unlike enclosed simulators, FAST supports open, interactive sessions where multiple users can participate in pre-validation discussions, promoting cross-functional collaboration between pilots, designers, and engineers.
• Remote Validation Capabilities: FAST can be operated remotely through video conferencing tools, allowing distributed teams and pilots to conduct HMI testing even under restricted conditions — a feature proven valuable during lockdowns.
• Training and Knowledge Transfer: ALTEN developed a comprehensive training program around FAST, combining hands-on cockpit simulation and flight procedure modules. Delivered by certified pilots, the program helps engineers understand cockpit systems, flight management, and operational procedures.
• Accessibility and Flexibility: Located near major aerospace design offices in Toulouse, FAST provides quick access for client teams and can even be deployed directly at customer sites. The tool adapts to various aircraft configurations and can be customized independently by ALTEN teams based on specific project needs.
• Continuous Learning Platform: Beyond prototyping, FAST functions as a collaborative workspace where engineers, trainees, and interns exchange ideas, develop new functionalities, and explore innovations in transport, connectivity, and automation.

Through this approach, ALTEN made cockpit validation faster, more cost-efficient, and more engaging — while turning FAST into a hub for innovation, collaboration, and talent development.

Outcomes

• Cost and Time Savings: Enabled early HMI validation without relying on traditional simulators, significantly reducing development costs and lead times.
• Enhanced Collaboration: Improved teamwork between pilots, engineers, and designers through open, interactive testing environments.
• Remote and Scalable Validation: Supported remote participation and multi-site collaboration during pandemic constraints.
• Professional Development: Provided a practical training platform that enhances engineers’ and new recruits’ understanding of cockpit systems.
• Sustained Innovation: FAST continues to evolve as a multi-sector tool, extending its application potential across future transport and digital interface projects.