Blog 22: How to Use Flight Simulators to Improve Skills

“Flight simulators are like a pilot’s playground and classroom rolled into one — a safe space to practice, repeat, and perfect every skill.” — Aalisha, Student Pilot | Princeton Flying School

When I first heard about using flight simulators, I imagined a flashy video game, perhaps fun but not very educational. However, as I started integrating simulators into my training routine, I realized they’re powerful tools capable of replicating complex aviation scenarios, system failures, and navigation challenges—all without ever leaving the ground.

In this blog, I’ll share my experiences using flight simulators, how they’ve improved my piloting skills, recommended setups, and how you can get the most out of this valuable training aid.

Types of Flight Simulators

• Basic Desktop Simulators: Programs like Microsoft Flight Simulator or X-Plane, which offer realistic physics and wide variety of aircraft and scenery.

• Certified Flight Training Devices (FTDs): Professional-grade simulators used by flight schools, often replicating specific aircraft with high fidelity.

• Full Flight Simulators (FFS): The most advanced simulators with motion platforms and fully replicated cockpits, used mainly by airlines.

My exposure began with desktop simulators and progressed to time in certified FTDs during training.

How Simulators Enhance Training

• Procedural Practice: Repeatedly practicing checklists, radios, and emergency procedures builds muscle memory.

• Navigation Skills: Simulators allow me to practice cross-country routes, instrument approaches, and flight planning with real-time weather inputs.

• Maneuver Training: I can safely practice stalls, steep turns, unusual attitudes, and recoveries plus failure scenarios that would be risky in a real plane.

• Familiarizing Cockpit Layouts: Many simulators replicate aircraft panels, which helps with switchology and instrument interpretation.

Setting Up for Effective Simulation Practice

• Hardware: A decent joystick or yoke, rudder pedals, and multiple monitors or VR setups can boost realism.

• Software: Invest in reputable flight simulation software and add-ons that match your training aircraft and geography.

• Flight Environment: Practice distractions-free, using real flight plans and weather for authenticity.

• Logging Practice: Treat simulator sessions seriously, logging time and noting areas for improvement like you would in real flights.

Challenges and Tips I Encountered

• Simulator sickness is a real challenge for some; taking breaks and adjusting settings help.

• Staying disciplined and focused in a non-real environment requires mental commitment.

• Balancing simulated flight time with actual flight lessons is key to maximizing benefits.

• Always validate what you learn in simulators with real-world practice under instructor supervision.

My Simulator Milestones

From my first simulated crosswind landing to full IFR approaches in low visibility, the simulator took my confidence and skills to the next level. I recall simulating engine failures many times before facing them in the real plane—turns out, that practice was invaluable.

Final Thoughts: A Pilot’s Best Friend on the Ground

Flight simulators provide a unique, low-risk environment to sharpen skills, explore scenarios, and build judgment. Pairing simulator practice with real-world training is a powerful way to become a safe, confident pilot.

Power up your simulator and enjoy the sky from your desktop!

Aalisha - Student Pilot | Drone Certified | Future PPL | Aviation Blogger