the flight simulator is very helpful but it has limits .I just bougt the aerofly and love it..I bought it essentially to learn hovering and some 3D manuvers..at least I wont crah and wipe out my new profile just yet..but like I said the sim helps but it's not a substitute for learning with a good trainer and buddy box..I suggest to all newbies if you have a rc field nearby or a know a field where pilots hang out go there and ask for help..while the park flyers suggest a school yard hopefully it has acres of hallowed ground better known as football fields..but just because its electric and relatively slow dont think you can just go out and fly in a small place with spectators about ..my point go to a safe place designed to fly and let an experienced pilot train you if at all possible..