Ever since the Federal Aviation Administration developed standards for PC flight simulation software used by prospective pilots in the course of their flight training, this software has become much more popular. There are a lot of choices out there, which can make it difficult to find the best flight simulator to help you train as a pilot or just for entertainment. You may want to consider the following points as you read flight simulator reviews and begin the process of making your decision.
Education
Flight simulators can be valuable educational tools for student pilots, since they offer a means of practicing what they've learned in their courses - and this is why many flight instructors strongly approve of the use of high quality PC-based simulators. Pilots need all the training they can get and the best flight simulator programs offer additional training in the basic skills they need.
A flight simulator is especially good for practicing fundamental techniques like landings and takeoffs as well as mastering heading, airspeed and maintaining altitude. Simulators have become increasingly sophisticated in the last few years and can now provide some excellent practice in flight skills all in the comfort of one's own home.
Features
It's important to research and learn about the many features included in flight simulator software before purchasing. If learning to actually flight an aircraft is desired, then arcade-type software isn't the best choice. Realism undeniably creates an enhanced experience while learning to fly on a simulator. High-end simulation software offers realistic aircraft, scenery and controls. 3D views of the exterior and interior of planes greatly improves the flight simulator experience. If the view from the cockpit is 3D, it will appear just like it would from the windows of a real cockpit.
Aircraft Variety
Whether you're using a simulator for your own entertainment or for supplementary flight training, the best flight simulator programs will offer a variety of aircraft, airports and maps which can vary your flight experience and keep things interesting. Learning the ins and outs of several different types of aircraft can come in very handy later if you plan to become a pilot. You can find out which simulators have this kind of variety by reading flight simulator reviews beforehand.
Realistic Scenery and Flight Controls
Newer, high quality flight simulators provide the user with realistic, three dimensional scenery which uses actual high definition photography. In other words, when you fly over a certain location using your simulator, it will look virtually identical to the view from an actual plane flying over that location. The best flight simulators apply the same approach to the skies, including accurate positioning of stars and planets as they would appear depending on the time in your simulator. Something else you should look for is the ability to change the weather in the simulator. Many of the better programs offer the choice of clear, rainy or stormy weather, with a corresponding and realistic effect on the scenery.
One thing that you should always look for in flight simulator reviews is whether the software is compatible with high quality flight pedals, since these are essential to truly realistic flight simulation. When you use the controls, your simulator should respond exactly the way that a real plane would, including lag time and bounce and roll due to weather conditions and air currents. These are conditions which you'll face almost every time that you fly a plane and as such, it is important that your simulator be able to handle these in a realistic manner.
Education
Flight simulators can be valuable educational tools for student pilots, since they offer a means of practicing what they've learned in their courses - and this is why many flight instructors strongly approve of the use of high quality PC-based simulators. Pilots need all the training they can get and the best flight simulator programs offer additional training in the basic skills they need.
A flight simulator is especially good for practicing fundamental techniques like landings and takeoffs as well as mastering heading, airspeed and maintaining altitude. Simulators have become increasingly sophisticated in the last few years and can now provide some excellent practice in flight skills all in the comfort of one's own home.
Features
It's important to research and learn about the many features included in flight simulator software before purchasing. If learning to actually flight an aircraft is desired, then arcade-type software isn't the best choice. Realism undeniably creates an enhanced experience while learning to fly on a simulator. High-end simulation software offers realistic aircraft, scenery and controls. 3D views of the exterior and interior of planes greatly improves the flight simulator experience. If the view from the cockpit is 3D, it will appear just like it would from the windows of a real cockpit.
Aircraft Variety
Whether you're using a simulator for your own entertainment or for supplementary flight training, the best flight simulator programs will offer a variety of aircraft, airports and maps which can vary your flight experience and keep things interesting. Learning the ins and outs of several different types of aircraft can come in very handy later if you plan to become a pilot. You can find out which simulators have this kind of variety by reading flight simulator reviews beforehand.
Realistic Scenery and Flight Controls
Newer, high quality flight simulators provide the user with realistic, three dimensional scenery which uses actual high definition photography. In other words, when you fly over a certain location using your simulator, it will look virtually identical to the view from an actual plane flying over that location. The best flight simulators apply the same approach to the skies, including accurate positioning of stars and planets as they would appear depending on the time in your simulator. Something else you should look for is the ability to change the weather in the simulator. Many of the better programs offer the choice of clear, rainy or stormy weather, with a corresponding and realistic effect on the scenery.
One thing that you should always look for in flight simulator reviews is whether the software is compatible with high quality flight pedals, since these are essential to truly realistic flight simulation. When you use the controls, your simulator should respond exactly the way that a real plane would, including lag time and bounce and roll due to weather conditions and air currents. These are conditions which you'll face almost every time that you fly a plane and as such, it is important that your simulator be able to handle these in a realistic manner.
About the Author:
There are a plethora of aircraft sims in the marketplace and in some cases it's hard to pick out the best flight simulator for your planned use. Be comprehensive in your due diligence. Read as many flight simulator reviews as you can find, and be sure your final choice satisfies all of your expectations.
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