ORIGINAL: ArcticCatRider
No....it is not a substitue.
On the computer, you lack any real depth perception.. which is paramount in learning to fly.
I've never bought a simulator. I've dicked around with them at the hobby shop before and find them somewhat amusing....but it is certainly no replacement.
ArticCat has it right. The FS. is fun, and you do get to know flight charistics, how to turn how to roll,, it is not real life.
You make a mistake of FS, hit the space bar, you make a mistake on the field, it coud cost you a thousand dollars or more.
Get a good pilot, preferably an expierenced trainer, hook up to a buddiebox of your configuration, get the feel of the plane and the radio. If something goes wrong, the buddie box will help you.
You and your instructor first need to range check, then preflight every plane you are usinging. Check and recheck.