I believe there is a group of people that fly electric planes near the Grey Eagle Casino. My advice would be to go there and have someone experienced check out the plane and take it up for the first flight. I don't know how well simulator skills transfer into the real world, it maybe sharpens up your skills over the winter if you already know how to fly.I don't think a simulator will teach all you need to know to go out and fly first time with no problems.