RC flight simulator
A computer program for practicing RC flight without risk or expense.
An RC flight simulator is a computer program that lets radio-controlled aircraft pilots practice flying without the risk of crashing or the cost of repairing a real model. While its most common use is teaching beginners, it also serves for trying out new aerobatic maneuvers, testing a model before purchasing it, and flying when weather or other conditions make outdoor practice impossible. Many simulators can be controlled with an actual R/C transmitter.
Commercial options include Eiperle CGM's neXt - RC Flight Simulator, SVK Systems' ClearView, Knife Edge Software's RealFlight, IPACS' AeroFly, and Trasna Technology's AccuRC. Free simulators also exist, with SeligSIM (FS One) being the most well-known and offering the most features.
Most simulators support importing add-ons like new aircraft models and scenery. Numerous websites provide such content for free. Some simulators are designed specifically for R/C flight, while others are general-purpose programs that can simulate both full-scale and radio-controlled aircraft.
- Commercial packages
- Eiperle CGM's neXt - RC Flight Simulator, SVK Systems' ClearView, Knife Edge Software's RealFlight, IPACS' AeroFly, Trasna Technology's AccuRC
- Free simulators
- SeligSIM (FS One) is the most well known and most feature rich
Lore & Background
RC flight simulators have been developed as a tool for radio-controlled aircraft pilots to train and experiment without the cost or danger of crashing a real model. They are used not only by beginners but also by experienced pilots to practice new aerobatics or evaluate a model before purchasing it. Many simulators also allow flight practice when outdoor conditions are unsuitable.
A number of commercial packages are available, including Eiperle CGM's neXt - RC Flight Simulator, SVK Systems' ClearView, Knife Edge Software's RealFlight, IPACS' AeroFly, and Trasna Technology's AccuRC. There are also free simulators, with SeligSIM (FS One) being the most well known and most feature rich. Most simulators allow the importing of add-ons such as new models and landscapes, and many websites offer free content for them.
Some simulators are dedicated solely to R/C flight, while others are generic simulators that can simulate both full-scale and R/C flight. The RC-Simulation Server forum (RC-Sim.de) serves as a community hub for these simulators.
Reader's Guide
RC flight simulators hold significance as a risk-free training and evaluation platform for radio-controlled aircraft pilots. They eliminate the expense and potential damage of crashing a real model, making them essential for beginners learning basic controls and for experienced pilots refining advanced aerobatics. The ability to evaluate a model before purchase helps pilots make informed decisions without financial commitment. Additionally, simulators enable flight practice when weather or other conditions prevent outdoor flying. The availability of both commercial and free packages, along with extensive user-created add-ons for models and landscapes, has fostered a vibrant community. The inclusion of real R/C transmitter support bridges the gap between simulation and real-world flying, ensuring skills transfer directly. Their legacy lies in democratizing access to flight training and experimentation, reducing barriers to entry in the hobby.
Did You Know?
- Most simulators allow the use of real R/C transmitters to control the sim.
- SeligSIM (FS One) is the most well known and most feature rich free simulator.
- Some simulators are generic and can simulate both full-scale and R/C flight.
- There are many websites dedicated to offering free add-ons such as new models and landscapes.
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