Best flight simulators in the world

ADVANCE FLYING ACADEMY

The best flight simulators in the world cater to different needs, from casual enthusiasts to serious pilot training and military operations. These simulators provide a range of experiences, from highly realistic flight dynamics to stunning visuals and immersive environments. Here are some of the best flight simulators in the world, based on various factors such as realism, features, and popularity:

1. Microsoft Flight Simulator (2020)

Best for: General aviation, immersive experience, and realistic weather and visuals.
Why it's the best:
- Incredible Visuals: Microsoft Flight Simulator (MSFS) 2020 offers stunning, real-world graphics, powered by satellite data and cloud-based streaming, providing some of the most accurate, visually immersive landscapes ever seen in a flight simulator.
- Real-Time Weather and Dynamic Environments: MSFS has a dynamic weather system that mirrors real-world conditions, allowing you to fly in varying weather conditions, from clear skies to thunderstorms, snowstorms, and everything in between.
- Wide Range of Aircraft: Includes general aviation aircraft (e.g., Cessna 172), airliners (e.g., Boeing 747, Airbus A320), and a variety of other aircraft.
- Global Scale: You can fly anywhere in the world, with highly detailed airports and terrain.
- VR Support: Supports Virtual Reality (VR), providing a truly immersive experience for flight enthusiasts.
Platform: PC, Xbox Series X|S.
Cost: Starts at $59.99 (Standard Edition), with premium editions offering more content.

2. X-Plane 12

Best for: Professional flight training and advanced aviation enthusiasts.
Why it's the best:
- Highly Accurate Flight Physics: X-Plane is known for its realistic flight dynamics, which makes it one of the best choices for pilot training and serious flight simulation enthusiasts.
- Realistic Cockpit Systems: Offers detailed cockpits with operational aircraft systems, ranging from small general aviation planes to commercial airliners like the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320.
- Extensive Aircraft Library: X-Plane supports many aircraft types, both default and through add-ons, including military jets, helicopters, and commercial aircraft.
- Professional-Grade Training: X-Plane is used by flight schools and even aviation authorities for training purposes.
- Customizability and Third-Party Add-Ons: You can customize aircraft, scenery, and even weather conditions through third-party add-ons.
Platform: PC, macOS, Linux.
Cost: Base version is $59.99, with additional content available for purchase.

3. Prepar3D (P3D)

Best for: Commercial pilot training, military training, and professional use.
Why it's the best:
- Developed by Lockheed Martin: Prepar3D is a professional-grade simulator used for commercial, military, and research training. It’s based on the same platform used by the U.S. military for flight training.
- Extensive Realism: Offers incredibly realistic aircraft models and flight dynamics, making it ideal for commercial pilot training, professional flight schools, and military flight simulation.
- Wide Range of Aircraft and Scenarios: Includes a broad array of aircraft from commercial airliners to military jets and helicopters. You can also practice air traffic control, flight planning, and system management.
- Virtual Reality Support: Prepar3D supports VR, which enhances immersion and realism in professional training scenarios.
Platform: PC.
Cost: Starts at $59.95 for the Academic License, with higher-priced versions for professionals and institutions.

4. DCS World

Best for: Military aviation and combat flight simulation.
Why it's the best:
- Ultra-Realistic Combat Simulations: DCS World is renowned for its realism in combat flight simulation. It provides highly detailed military aircraft, such as the F-16, F/A-18, and A-10, and simulates real-world combat scenarios.
- Realistic Flight Physics: Every aircraft in DCS World has realistic flight dynamics, and the systems modeling is incredibly detailed, from avionics to weaponry.
- Incredible Visuals and Audio: The simulator offers stunning graphics, high-quality sound, and immersive environments that make combat flying highly realistic.
- Multiplayer and Online Training: DCS World has a robust multiplayer community, where pilots can fly together or engage in combat missions.
Platform: PC.
Cost: Free base version, with premium aircraft and campaign modules available for purchase.

5. Aerofly FS 4

Best for: Casual flight simulation with an easy learning curve.
Why it's the best:
- Beginner-Friendly: Aerofly FS 4 is known for its simplicity and ease of use, making it a great option for newcomers to flight simulation.
- Good Visuals and Realistic Controls: While not as complex as MSFS or X-Plane, it offers good graphics and an easy-to-understand flight model.
- Great for General Aviation: Focuses on general aviation aircraft like the Cessna 172 and airliners like the Boeing 747, allowing users to fly both small and large aircraft.
- Virtual Reality (VR) Support: Provides support for VR, offering a more immersive flying experience.
Platform: PC, macOS, iOS, Android, and VR.
Cost: Around $59.99.

6. FlightGear

Best for: Free, open-source simulation with flexibility and customization.
Why it's the best:
- Free and Open-Source: FlightGear is completely free, making it an excellent option for those looking for a no-cost entry into flight simulation.
- Customizable: FlightGear is highly customizable, with a vast library of aircraft, sceneries, and add-ons available from the community.
- Realistic Flight Physics: While not as advanced as X-Plane or MSFS, FlightGear still offers reasonably realistic flight dynamics, particularly for general aviation.
- Learning and Community: FlightGear’s open-source nature means there’s a strong online community that provides free resources, tutorials, and support.
Platform: PC, macOS, Linux.
Cost: Free.

7. Elite Simulation Solutions (Elite Dangerous)

Best for: Space and futuristic flight simulation.
Why it's the best:
- Futuristic Flight in Space: Unlike other simulators, Elite Dangerous offers a space-faring experience with a focus on futuristic spacecraft. While not a traditional flight simulator, it provides a sense of realism when navigating the vastness of space.
- Expansive Open Universe: The game features a massive open world with billions of stars and planets to explore, offering a different kind of flight experience.
- Combat and Trading: Players can participate in combat, exploration, and trading, all while controlling a spacecraft with realistic flight dynamics.
Platform: PC, PS4, Xbox One.
Cost: Varies (Base game starts around $29.99).

8. Condor Soaring

Best for: Glider flight training.
Why it's the best:
- Focused on Gliders: Condor Soaring is designed specifically for glider pilots and offers an exceptional flight model for soaring, with realistic aerodynamics and thermals.
- Training and Competitions: The simulator offers training modules and virtual soaring competitions, making it a great tool for glider pilots.
- Realistic Environment: Includes a variety of landscapes, weather patterns, and soaring conditions to replicate real-world gliding experiences.
Platform: PC.
Cost: Around $45.

Conclusion:

These are some of the best flight simulators in the world, offering a wide range of experiences, from general aviation and commercial flight training to military combat and space exploration. The choice of the best simulator depends on your personal interests and training goals:

For immersive visual experiences and general aviation: Microsoft Flight Simulator (2020) and Aerofly FS 4 are ideal.
For serious flight training: X-Plane 12 and Prepar3D offer professional-grade simulation.
For military aviation and combat flight: DCS World is unbeatable.
For those on a budget: FlightGear offers a free, open-source option.
For specialized glider training: Condor Soaring is the top choice.