Can a PC flight sim teach you how to fly? Now with X-Plane!

Welcome to part 2 of my now 2-part series on whether or not consumer flight sims can make for good training aids in real-world flight training. In my first video on the subject, I had had a total of 1 hour in real-world flight, and I used FSX as my primary point of comparison. At this point, I've taken all the lessons necessary for my Private Pilot's License (still waiting for my checkride) and have started instrument training, so I have more real-world experience to compare to the sim world. I've also primarily switched to X-Plane with Ortho4XP, and have an upgraded PC setup with dedicated controls and even VR to give sims the best chance at helping me with my training. In what ways are sims a good training aid, and in what ways are they just video games?

Apologies for the soft focus on me that starts about halfway through the video - I only noticed that after editing and exporting, and I've got to move on to other things at this point, so no time to reshoot it. Luckily you don't have to look at my mug all that often after that point in the video :)

One thing I didn't mention that I wish I had was force feedback. Back in the day, I had a Logitech Wingman Force 3D joystick, and it went a long way in simulating those physical forces that you just don't get in a sim. (My stick broke, or I'd still use it.) Yes, you can feel the air pushing back on your control inputs in a small plane. No, you can't in an A320, but nobody's learning to fly in an A320. Small planes generally have their flight controls connected directly to the flight control surfaces through pushrods or cables, so you do feel a lot through the hands in a light aircraft.

btw this is *not* turning into an aviation channel, so those of you looking for retro computers or electronics, have no fear - just wait for the next video.

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