Microsoft Flight Simulator X for Pilots: Real World Training

I'm an instrument-rated private pilot. Although Flight Simulator isn't a perfect substitute for real-world flying, it does have its pros (not least of which is that it doesn't cost $139/hr to rent 'wet.') I've had this book since October, and I love it. (I would have loved it even more if I'd had it several years ago when I was earning my license and ratings. It's THAT helpful.) What I'd add to the other reviews is that the two authors -- both flight instructors -- do an excellent job of pointing out where Flight Simulator-flying and real-world flying differ, as, for instance, in ATC communication, available IFR clearances, and the operation of the G1000.

Although the title of this outstanding teaching manual indicates it is for real pilots using Microsoft's Flight Simulator as a teaching tool I can enthusiastically recommend it for simulator pilots as well. I learned so much from the authors who are real world pilots & instructors I hadn't learned from other available sources. I consider when I finish the manual with the missions included I will have completed real VFR & IFR instruction even though I am not a real world pilot & confine my flying to Flight Sim only. The book is eminently practical as a good teaching manual should be. It offers a stepwise approach to flight training from the Piper Cub to the twin-engine Beechcraft Baron & beyond. A novice completely unfamiliar with simulator flying could use this book from the beginning to become competent in VFR flight before even thinking about sophisticated avionics & instrument flying. It is crammed full of practical tips & offers context for the theory of flight which can be gleaned from other sources. There is a bunch of extra resources available at the publisher's website which extend the material even more. One can download approach plates & the like for the included missions. I cannot recommend this book highly enough for simulator pilots; it is simply wonderful!

Finally a book that takes nothing for granted and has one eager to get started with FSX. I followed one of their MANY helpful suggestions and took the book out to a flying school. From CFI's, (you'll find out what that is in the first chapter) to students, their praise was unanimous. I'm 77 years old and although I don't plan to take flying lessons, this book whets one's appetite and desire to get started. The book not only covers flying but also gives excellent information on just what power does your computer need to run the program as well as having a section that deals with Windows Vista. Sincerest congratulations to the authors.

FS Real World Training is an invaluable book. Although I had already 'passed' many of the flight lessons in FSX I still didn't feel confident about my flying skills. There were too many things that were left (excuse the expression) hanging in the air. When I bought this book I started at the beginning feeling like a newbie all over again. Many points that I missed before are explained fully and in detail and finally it is all making sense. As a result I am enjoying my flight simulator more than ever. Aside from the wealth of interesting and informative detail I think the most important thing is that the reader gets to make connections. The information connects from one chapter to the next and consequently, step by step, everything fits together. Going through this book is an immensely enjoyable experience. An added bonus are the generous number of free mission files and charts available on the wiley. com web site which are enjoyable and extremely useful.