C'mon guys, I think you're giving MSFS a bad rap. OK, before I start, I do have my PPL, and I will eventually get my ATPL (another 8-10years or so). But for the record, I did and still do enjoy MSFS. When I was 12, it was the closest thing I got to real flying. When finally did start with the real thing, it did wonders for my instrument scan (although it was actually detremental in terms of an outside lookout). Now that I have my license, I find it's great for instrument work and navigation technique. Furthermore, it's very nice to have full FMS/EICAS system when all you have in real life is a shnatty little ADF needle. And yes, I do fly real time flights, but I takeoff, setup on course, then do something that will occupy my time for 8 hours (sleep, school, work, whatever) then return to my PC and land again. I do think that sitting there watching the sim fly for you for 8 hours is not exactly an efficient use of one's time.