Virtual Flying Helps Refine Real-World Skills

From its humble beginnings in 1980, flight simulation has come a long way in terms of function and followers. In those early days, the scenery was nothing more than a black and white world of 36 tiles and an instrument panel that paled that of a Piper Cub. Today, its hard to tell the virtual world and panels from the real ones.

While many hours have been spent flying in this virtual world, is it all just for fun and games? For some, yes. This may be the only way they can afford financially or time-wise to fly an airplane. For others who are pilots, it provides a very affordable way to keep their real-world skills sharp.

Today's Microsoft Flight Simulator X gives pilots the option to fly a variety of aircraft in numerous environments. From single-engine trainers on a "severe clear" day to heavy jetliners shooting cat III ILS approaches, the world is yours. Many have started flying virtually that later go on to earn their pilot's certificate.

Flying Microsoft Flight Simulator X out of the box is enjoyable and relatively cheap. However, to fully take advantage of this product, many choose powerful computers with multiple monitors, add-on yokes, pedals and other controls, and then tie it all together by connecting to virtual on-line flying networks using the Internet. Though all of this adds additional cost to the hobby, its still far cheaper to burn virtual gas than real gas.

The largest online flying community in the United States is Vatsim. Started in 2001, it today claims registered membership of over 100,000 with 10,000 being active members. A typical snapshot of activity will find about 500 pilots and 100 air traffic controllers (ATC) working together. The best part of Vatsim is there is no charge to join or use their network. It is a non-profit organization that depends on voluntary donations to keep its servers and software functioning well.

So, if you can only fly an hour or so a month in the real-world, you may be able to add some virtual hours to your experience. Step into a standard trainer, such as a Cessna 172, choose an airport with less than desirable weather conditions, contact ATC for your clearance and you keep your flying skills honed to a nice sharp edge. Who knows, some day all that virtual flying may get you out of a pickle in the real-world.