Any newer computer should fit the bill for what you want to do. The only thing you really need to be concerned about is the video card. For anything that uses 3D such as a flight sim you need a better card. I would check out the minumum requirements for the flight sim software you are considering then go at least one step above. Nvidia and ATI's newer cards are all suitable. Get at least 256mb of RAM. Onboard sound is fine unless you have specific audio needs. You'll know if you do. Minumum of 17" monitor. 19 in an upscale monitor would be better. You might want to get your computer seperate from your monitor and pick up something like a 19" Viewsonic Professional from newegg.com. Another option is to have someone you know custom build you one. I build my own but don't recomend that other people do unless they know what they are doing. You don't save money..