The work of an anesthesiologist and that of a flight pilot share certain attributes. As pilots use simulators to obtain risk-free practice in recognizing and controlling situations that might lead to disaster, simulation programs are now emerging as a new way to learn and train anesthesiology is being conceived as a new task that integrates scientific knowledge and human factors. Simulators have been introduced into teaching and training programs as a powerful tools that allow anesthesiologists to learn, practice and train in a multitude of situations without putting human life at risk. Experience is limited so far, but acceptance has been high and simulators seem to accelerate the acquisition of skills and knowledge, although their effect on performance in critical situations has not been proven yet. Two types have been applied in anesthesiology: computer screen and mannequin. The usefulness of simulators ranges from training for situations that require the systematic application of protocols and the understanding of new drugs being introduced into clinical practice to the practice of how to use resources for managing anesthetic emergencies. It is still too early to use simulators for certifying and evaluating clinical performance, as further studies are needed to identify the type of events that reflect typical situations and to determine which procedures should be evaluated.