It costs that much because people will pay that much. Have you noticed how many people (myself included) say that you MUST get a simulator, especially for helicopter or 3D work? How much is it worth if it prevents even 1 crash on a 35% 3D plane or a $1500 helicopter?

Personally, I use the free FMS simulator and find it is very realistic for 30-50 size helicopters, although it isn't that great for fixed wing. Now if I can only find a simulator that can teach me how to recover from mechanical failures! Maybe I could have saved myself a bunch of money this afternoon!

Keith