Im sure we can ALL understand what some of you are saying regarding the need to actually be on the field, talk to the guys, watch and learn. Dont you think that someone that started on a SIM might have a better idea of smooth control techniques vs someone who MIGHT...just saying someone might...start on their own and give full elevator upon takeoff because they truly have NO IDEA how a plane reacts when the sticks are moved partially vs all the way etc.? DO they still need an instructor? HELL YES....There is no such thing as a short cut with as large of an investment as this hobby can be...but the joy the NOOB will get from that first flight with an instructor being much smoother because of the SIM experience will be the first of many memories that the planes we love will bring.

Someone once told me: Opinions are like A**holes....we all have them.