No I am not a real pilot but I am a flight sim geek. The problem I have with civilian flight sims is there is nothing to do but fly around and do things like intentional spins. I spend hours a week flying WW2 combat flight sims. The fact of having a set mission and something to do besides fly makes it much more interesting to me. And a real pilot wouldnt have to kick around looking for the rudder pedals they are right under my desk. Give it a shot you might find it enjoyable. http://www.ubi.com/US/Games/il2forgottenbattles/