One challenge of creating a training program for use with a realistic simulation platform such as Flight Simulator is how to bring new pilots up to speed while avoiding a program that requires too much time to create, maintain, and enjoy. After all, in order to fully recreate all aspects of helicopter operations training we would have to nearly duplicate a professional helicopter training course. This would be impractical and might also turn-off many potential new virtual-pilots. Hovercontrol hopes to always strike a solid balance between realism and entertainment. You'll find that fundamental skills and activities will be presented with a high level of realism and detail, while other less important topics are presented in a lighter fashion or avoided entirely. If you have suggestions for improving the quality of this training program please let us know.


What to expect

If you are using FS2004, you'll be training in what is probably the most advanced consumer-available simulation software. However there are some limitations to simulation, especially in regards to helicopter flight which you should be aware of before reaching flight school. When you hear new flyers stating that the helicopter in MSFS can't be flown, it is usually because they have the wrong type of controls, or they have not learned to overcome one or more of the following factors:

Lack of physical sensations

You won't be able to feel small changes in motion. You also won't be able to sense your speed or altitude as clearly as you would in real flight. When it comes to helicopters, these sensations are very important, especially at lower speeds and altitudes. Without these physical cues, our situational awareness will be challenged. It will place greater importance on the few cues the simulator does provide, and the instruments that tell us things our bodies can't feel.

Lack of peripheral vision

Yes there are virtual cockpits with point-of-view joystick controls. There are also multiple views that can be used within the 2d cockpit mode. However, these can't come close to the real life ability to take a quick look out of the corners of your eye. This means most of the time, you'll be getting your visual cues from the forward view of the 2d or virtual cockpit. Surprisingly, with a little practice and experience, you'll find the simulator will give you quite a lot of information about the situation of your aircraft in this view. The cues are small, but can be used effectively once you begin to recognize them.

Sterile Controls

Depending on the type and quality of your hardware controllers, even with the highest sensitivity settings, and realism settings, the controls you use will most likely not create the type of response in the helicopter that you would expect in a real helicopter. Your controls will most likely also not give you the feed back and sensation that real controls would. Depending on your configuration, the flight simulator can be slightly more sluggish when it comes to fine control inputs.



Those are the limitations. However, there are also some advantages to simulation that can make your training and flight experiences more enriching.

The Pause Button

Some people think the pause button is the most unrealistic aspect of simulation. Despite this, it remains a powerful tool in your flight experience. It allows you the time to take a second look at the tasks at hand. Some times a quick pause is all you need to get your wits back, and correct that out of control hover before crashing. It might be unrealistic, but it is simulation, and it can be a powerful tool.

Instant Replays

I think all pilots would like to have a 24x7 camera-man to document every aspect of their training. Well with MSFS you can easily take a second look at the great landing you just did, and the bad landing too!

External Views

One thing real pilots will never have is the ability to step outside of their aircraft and take a look at their flying from the external perspective. Some simulation buffs discount this as unrealistic, but in training, you might find it incredibly important. Any new pilots with previous experience with remote controlled aircraft will definitely appreciate spending a little stick time while viewing the aircraft from the 3rd person. You might find that an occasional look from the outside will help boost the realism of your flight because it will help your brain see that the aircraft you are flying really exists in the simulated world.

Total Environment/Situation Control

You will have the power to change lighting conditions, weather, and seasons. This will give you great flexibility in your training and flight operations. This is undoubtedly one of the most powerful tools offered by simulation software, in fact it is this ability that makes simulation so important during real life training programs.