Is a flight simulator difficult? A beginner's guide

The flight simulator is fascinating more and more people — some want to feel like a pilot, others are preparing for an airline recruitment process, and yet others are simply looking for a unique experience. But one question always comes up:

Is a flight simulator difficult?

The answer is: that's fine, but... needn't. It all depends on what your first encounter with the cockpit looks like, which scenario you choose and whether you have an instructor to guide you step by step.

In this guide, I explain exactly what is difficult, what is easy and how to prepare so that your first flight is pure pleasure.

Why does a flight simulator feel difficult?

The flight simulator looks like a real cockpit — hundreds of buttons, screens, levers, switches. For someone seeing this for the first time, it can be overwhelming.

The most common concerns of beginners:

• „I won't get my head around all these buttons”
• „I don't know how to start”
• „I'm afraid I'll mess something up”
• „I have no experience”

Good news? You don't need to know any procedures to get started. The instructor guides you through everything — from setting the flaps to landing.

What is really difficult at the beginning?

1. Keeping the aircraft on the runway during takeoff

The aeroplane reacts to the slightest movements of the control column or pedals. Beginners often:

• they are turning too sharply,
• „yank” the controls,
• They are correcting their course too quickly.

That's normal — everyone starts somewhere.

2. Altitude and speed control

An aeroplane does not behave like a car. If you pull back on the control column too hard, you will climb too quickly. If not hard enough, you will not lift off the runway.

It is a matter of feel that comes after a few minutes.

3. Landing

This is the hardest part of the flight — even in a real aeroplane.

Beginners have trouble with:

• maintaining the glide path,
• at an appropriate speed,
• sense of the flare moment,
• stabilisation of the aircraft just above the runway.

But… that’s also the most satisfying moment.

What is easy — and surprisingly intuitive?

1. Start

With the instructions next to you, getting started is simple:

• full power,
• lane assist,
• rotation at the appropriate speed.

That is the moment that gives the greatest emotion and the most joy.

2. Flight on autopilot

The autopilot in the simulator works just like in a real aeroplane — it stabilises the flight and allows you to focus on the views or learning the instruments.

Just set:

• height,
• course,
• speed.

The system takes care of the rest.

3. Operation of basic instruments

The instructor only shows what is needed. You don't need to know the whole cockpit — just a few key elements.

Is a flight simulator difficult for someone who has never flown?

No. If you have an instructor guiding you step-by-step, the simulator is:

• intuitive,
• safe,
• predictable,
• tailored to your level.

Most important: you cannot break anything. You can make mistakes without consequence — and that's the beauty of it.

Is a flight simulator difficult for MSFS / X-Plane players?

For gamers, a simulator is:

• more realistic,
• more physical,
• more manually demanding.

But at the same time:

• easier to understand,
• more intuitive,
• closer to real flying.

Gamers usually pick up procedures faster, but they have to learn to work with their hands and feet — something a computer doesn't give you.

Is a flight simulator difficult for airline candidates?

Yes — but in a positive sense.

Simulator:

• teaches procedures,
• it requires precision,
• requires teamwork,
• it mirrors real-life scenarios.

Therefore, it is an essential pilot training tool.

How to prepare so that the simulator is NOT difficult?

1. Arrive 10 minutes early

You will get to know the cockpit, sit comfortably, and get used to the space.

2. Tell your instructor what you are worried about

He will adapt the scenario to your level.

3. Start with a simple flight

Best first scenario:

• start,
• short flight,
• landing.

4. Don't be afraid to ask

The instructor is there to explain.

5. Don't try to juggle everything at once

To start with, this is enough:

• steering wheel,
• throttle,
• flaps,
• basic instruments.

The rest will come with time.

Is a flight simulator difficult? Summary

The simulator might seem difficult, but in practice:

• the start is simple,
• the flight is intuitive,
• Autopilot helps,
• the instructor is driving,
• Mistakes cost nothing.

It is an experience that gives enormous satisfaction — regardless of your level.