I think the (free download) demo of FSX is quite fun and informational. It does well to simulate avionics to the extent that you can learn for example the Garmin 500 system or any other system that FSX supports. I had always wanted to become familiar with GPS and FSX enabled that interest.
Procedural matters or that you can focus on the flight path and learn to plan routes out is a good start. I'm able to fly hands free because I figured out how to preset the GPS, cruise speed, and altitude settings in a way that lets the plane simply fly the prescribed heading or GPS track. Just activate the auto-pilot(s) in sequence, with the VSI set for climb out and you’re off (alt/on). Landing with the auto-pilot enabled is hit or miss as far as the centerline goes but never the less I doubt many pilots landing Princess Juliana Intl have ever rolled the wheels off the water before rolling onto runway 9 and that's the kind of experience you just can't touch with the real thing.
The most remarkable aspect of Flight Simulator is the world wide following of enthusiast. Absolutely amazing, from the point of view of how hobbyist and programmers have joined forces and created models of most everything that has ever flown. What's more is the real time flight environment where some play the role of air traffic control and others have formed the makings of their own virtual airline. Each year there is the race around the world. With FSX one can fly with real time weather updates via Jepson. No turbines unless they're props and limited to two engines. Otherwise, you can use any multi-engine non-turbo prop aircraft.
At this point the interface again allows for the use of real time flight planning and now I would say you're on to something. Flying is one discipline, and flight planning is as much the same skill level if not more so when reviewing weather patterns and how to best hold a course through such conditions.
Of all the simulation programs out there then generally speaking flight simulator has been around the longest for over 25 years. That in itself speaks volumes for the program. What's more is today the full version of Flight Simulator is so resource intense for most computers it also serves as a great gauge to measure how well your computer system is operating.
The downfall is you can spend more time flying the simulator than many other aspects of life that genuinely demand more attention. But then again, not everyone understands the rigors of circumnavigating the earth.
Last edited by E.Z. Flyer; 28th June 2008 at 17:55.