Why I still fly on a Flight Simulator (yes, the video game!)

Ask an aviation geek about their weekend plans, and don’t be surprised if they say: “Flying from Dubai to London.” On a computer.

Flight simulators like Microsoft Flight Simulator and X-Plane have become insanely realistic. You can fly over your actual house thanks to satellite mapping, program real airline routes into the cockpit computer, and even simulate turbulence.

But what makes simming so addictive? Partly, it’s accessibility. Not everyone can rent a Cessna or train for a pilot’s license, but anyone with a PC can grab a joystick and take off. It’s aviation without the bank account pain.

It’s also community-driven. Online networks like VATSIM let you fly with real-time air traffic controllers (often enthusiasts themselves). Imagine being vectored for approach by someone halfway across the world, sitting in their bedroom with a headset.

And let’s be honest: it scratches the itch. You can test landings at tricky airports, practice emergencies, or just cruise at FL350 with your favorite livery. Some pilots even say simming helped them in real cockpits.

For spotters and dreamers, simulators are a way to experience aviation first hand — from the comfort of home. So next time you hear someone say they “flew JFK to Heathrow” on Saturday, don’t laugh. Chances are, they had as much fun as the passengers who did it for real.

Image source: Nejc Soklic (Umsplash)