Noir! a flight simulator is like an expensive video game for kids. I learned to fly without a simulator and an instructor. I have flown both glow and electric planes for five years and I didn't crash any of my planes yet. My three year-old Falcon Cessna Ready is still in one piece. If you are a beginner to R/C model flight, the first thing you should do is to learn the basic aerodynamic. Know the basics of turning and landing an aircraft by reading some physic books instead of playing a video game. A radio control airplane flies much like an actual aircraft. Learning to fly will be much more easier and enjoyable if you obey the law of physics. As for me, the only advantage of a flight simulator is that it helps you to be familiar with the control reversal. But it doesn't teach you the real physics of flight, such as stall speed, level off from a climb or descent...etc. Finally, once you are well acquainted with ground lessons, you should find an instructor. A flight simulator may be optional.