Flight Simulators- Are they really useful?
Sidd s -
Welcome back to another blog post! This blog will be about some of the flight simulators I use to practice flying and just to have fun. I started playing in July 2023, after coming back from a trip and convincing my parents to get it for me. This was the start of my aviation journey.
I use Microsoft Flight Simulator (MSFS) to practice flying. It costs around $100 for the full package. There are many different simulators on the market, and most of them are detailed and provide a variety of aircraft to explore. However, I chose MSFS because of its unique aircraft and avionics simulation. MSFS gives a level of detail to simulated flying that not many other simulators do with the same level of realism. Many career pilots use it as a method to keep their knowledge of the avionics sharp due to the high fidelity of MSFS. I also use MSFS to test my avionics knowledge and to practice flying the aircraft I use for my flight lessons (Cessna 172-S). There is a one-to-one correlation between the feel of the simulator and the feel of the aircraft. For instance, if it takes 2 seconds for a certain button to register in the real cockpit, that feature is modeled perfectly in the simulator. I knew exactly what to do to start the plane and get it in the air during my first flight lesson.
MSFS offers many aircraft options, including the full range of Boeing aircraft, from the 717 to the 747. It also offers the full Airbus fleet as well. I usually find myself flying the Airbus A321 or the Boeing 737 because these are the most utilized airliners in the U.S. However, if you desire, there are many other options that are more unique and iconic. For example, the Concorde (the first supersonic plane ) and the A380 (the largest passenger jet) are available to fly in the simulator . But, I stay away from these because they are not flown in the U.S. (the Concorde is now retired).
Physical flight equipment is needed to get the full MSFS experience. I purchased the official Airbus sidestick ($60), along with the official Boeing throttle quadrant ($50). I have attached a photo of both of these below. You can also purchase autopilot control panels and rudder pedals. They help immerse you in the flight experience, by providing a physical feel of the buttons and other avionics systems of the aircraft.
I use MSFS a lot to practice, but I also play it for entertainment. I remember once I landed a plane on the roof of BASIS Mesa, as the simulator uses Google Maps to create an exact representation of the environment. You can fly any plane, land at any airport (or any grass field) and fly as long as you wish.
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