BOTTOM LINE

The new RealFlight 9 edition is easy to install, and the menus are intuitive to navigate. The manual is available as a PDF file, but users will really only need it to explore the deepest recesses of the program, such as advanced aircraft editing. Most of the software can easily be mastered by simply scrolling through the menus and playing with the various settings. All of your favorite aircraft from previous versions are included, and a new batch of E-flite and Hangar 9 popular new releases are available to fly or customize.

Despite the slew of options, you won’t feel lost or overwhelmed. You can leave most everything at their defaults, load up a model and a field or scenario, and be flying within minutes of installing the software.

Flight simulators are awesome in several ways. Want to try a jet? Load one up on the sim and give it a go. The same applies to a highpowered 3D gasser, or maybe a scale helicopter. Even with the initial investment, RealFlight 9 is a very cost-effective way to learn new RC skills. It doesn’t matter whether you are a new pilot learning to land without an instructor, or an experienced pilot figuring out a Pop Top or how to Harrier roll your 3D plane in a low-risk environment, pilots of all skill levels will benefit. After all, practice makes perfect!