Co-Pilots, simulators, etc., etc.

Why don't you guys chill out, and be thankful you didn't have to learn how to fly one of these things without the benefit of any aids other than a couple of dowels with whiffle balls...

All of these are "crutches". So what? The game is so involved and difficult, anyone would be a fool not to take every advantage he could.

But, having been involved in the adult learning process for many years as an instructor teaching fine motor skills, I can tell you that a simulator only goes so far in preparing you for the live event. There is no EDF (Emotional Debt factor) present when using the sim. IOW, you're not worrying about breaking your expensive toy.

When the blades are turning, THAT'S when your knees get weak, and that is also when you get maximum feedback (learning process) and build muscle memory.

So, while a sim does indeed help, nothing can take the place of burning fuel and just DOING it; Co-Pilot or not.