Navigation Basics — Microsoft Flight Simulator Guide

Explore the comprehensive guide to Navigation Basics in Microsoft Flight Simulator. Learn essential flight training lessons, from VFR to IFR, and master your aircraft.

This guide covers the Flight Training section of Microsoft Flight Simulator (2020), detailing various lesson series designed to teach users how to fly. These lessons range from basic aircraft handling and take-offs/landings to advanced VFR and IFR navigation, as well as specialized training for gliders, airliners, and bush planes.

The Flight Training program consists of 7 series with a total of 43 lessons. Each lesson is guided by voice prompts, instrument highlights, and visual markers, with most series culminating in a test that can be failed. Users can take lessons in any order and repeat them as needed.

Lessons Overview

• Basic Handling: 8 lessons in the Cessna 152, covering fundamental aircraft controls and maneuvers.
• Take-off and Landing: 7 lessons focusing on the critical phases of takeoff and landing, also in the Cessna 152.
• VFR Navigation: 5 lessons teaching Visual Flight Rules navigation techniques in the Cessna 152.
• Glider Training: 7 lessons using the DG Flugzeugbau DG-1001e neo, focusing on glider flight dynamics.
• Airliner Training: 2 lessons for the Airbus A320neo, covering airliner-specific procedures.
• Bush Pilot: 7 lessons in the ICON A5, designed for off-airport operations and challenging environments.
• IFR Navigation: 7 lessons in the Cessna 172 Skyhawk, focusing on Instrument Flight Rules navigation.

Mechanics of Flight Training

Lessons are structured into bite-sized modules, offering guided instruction through voiceovers and visual aids. The 'Basic Handling' series, for example, includes lessons like 'Introduction' (toolbar, camera, instruments), 'Aircraft Essentials' (yoke, pedals, throttle, indicators), 'Familiarization Flight' (maneuvers around Sedona), 'Attitude (Pitch)' (climbing, cruising, descending), and 'Turns (Roll)' (using yoke and rudder for turns).