A study of U.S. Air Force simulator training was conducted to identify factors that influence the effectiveness of such training and to learn how its effectiveness is being determined. The research consisted of a survey of ten representative Air Force simulator training programs and a review of the simulator training research literature. A number of suspected or potential factors influencing simulator training effectiveness were identified. These factors include simulator design for training, visual display fidelity, platform motion system fidelity, handling characteristics, training program features, trainee and instructor characteristics, and attitudes and expectations toward simulator training. The discussion of each factor reviews relevant literature and Air Force simulator design features and training practices. Ten simulator training effectiveness study design models were identified. Efforts by the Air Force to validate the simulator training activities surveyed are described in relation to these ten models. It was found that the programs surveyed had not been subjected to formal evaluation studies that would establish their training effectiveness in quantitative terms. Therefore, the influence of factors identified during the survey upon such training could only be hypothesized. Recommendations were made concerning research and administrative action that could enhance future simulator training effectiveness. (Author)