Total Cost of Ownership

Hardware

• 625.- (used, price new 1100.-) Honeycomb Yoke and flight throttle management, Thrustmaster TPR rudder
• 2000.- Computer
• 589.- Next Level Racing® Flight Seat Pro - Optional
• 649.- Next Level Racing® Flight Stand Pro - Optional
• 1942.- PUMA X A-Style - 5th generation USB Joystick - ONLY for PPL(H) - best jostick for helicopter training - Optional
• 1300.- (used, price new 3400.-) Next Level Racing Motion V3 Plattform seat-mover - Optional
• 180.- Next Level Racing Free Standing Single Monitor- Optional

Software

• 53.- X-Plane 12 (New Year end sales)
• 52.- Microsoft Flight Simulator Aviator Edition 2024 - Microsoft discount
• 60.- Air manager v4 Desktop - Optional
• 22.- Air manager v4 iPad - Optional
• 14.50.- Guimbal Cabri G2 helicopter model - Optional

Hardware choice

Yoke

Yoke	Product	Price
Turtle beach VélocityOne Flight Control System		360.- CHF
Logitech G Saitek Pro Flight Yoke System	xxx	$115
Honeycomb Alpha	It was designed to meet the requirements of flight simulator users, but also of flight students and pilots. All internal components are manufactured in aviation quality and offer a realistic flight experience with realistic ergonomics. The high quality mechanics offer a realistic full 180° rotation angle for aileron control with a self-centering mechanism without dead zone. In longitudinal direction the steel shaft allows a range of motion of 15 cm. The mechanism is made entirely of metal for durability and the yoke features a switch panel with battery and alternator switch, avionics main switch and light switches. It is equipped with a red LED backlight so that it can be easily operated at night. There is also an ignition switch, as is common on piston engine aircraft. The left handle has two buttons, two 2-way hat switches and a push-to-talk button, while the right handle has two more 2-way hat switches, an 8-way panorama switch and a button. Thanks to a matching bracket, Alpha Flight Controls are compatible with both Honeycomb and Saitek products. The included driver and configuration software provides individual profile settings for different aircraft and is compatible with Windows and macOS. iPad/Android device mount for the honeycomb	New arounf 260.- CHF (got it for 160.- used but like new in the box)

Throttle

Throttle	Product	Price
Turtle beach VélocityOne Flight Control System		360.- CHF
Logitech G Saitek Pro Flight Throttle Quadrant	xxx	$66
Honeycomb Bravo	The thrust lever quadrant allows configurations from the single-engine small aircraft to the four-engine airliner. It supports various cockpit systems such as autopilot, annunciator panel, landing gear switch, flaps and trim. The thrust levers can be configured for single and multi-engine small aircraft with separate flap switch. For use in an airliner, a configuration with two or four thrust levers, levers for spoilers and flaps can be selected. Here the thrust reverser can also be operated. The autopilot panel includes the most common functions used in commercial and GA aircraft. The Annunciator Panel with 14 indicator lights displays the most important status and warning messages of the on-board systems. Additional functions are provided by the landing gear switch, the trim wheel and 7 freely programmable switches, so that the user does not have to use the keyboard so often.	New arounf 265.- CHF (got it for 160.- used but like new in the box)

Rudder

Rudder	Product	Price
VelocityOne™ Rudder		360.- CHF
Logitech G Saitek Pro Flight Rudder Pedals	xxx	$131
Thrustmaster Rudder TPR	All set for immediate liftoff: With the first rudder with a S.M.A.R.T-guide rail system (Sliding Motion on Aluminium Rail Tracks) for smooth control. System of 4 industrial aluminium slide rails for a perfect sliding movement. Two differential brake pedals: Large differential brake pedals: 25 centimeters (equivalent to shoe size 45). USB and/or proprietary RJ12 connectivity: On PC (Windows 10/8/7/Vista), works with all standard joysticks. On PC and on PS4, works and connects directly to the Thrustmaster T.Flight Hotas 4 joystick. Advanced calibration software for setting dead zones: Set the central dead zone. T.A.R.G.E.T Advanced PC Programming Software: Allows you to program the axes and differential brakes. Two differential brake pedals for optimized flying! - Large differential brake pedals: 25 centimeters (shoe size 12/45). Rounded central pivot point with central grip on the differential brake axles. Pivot point with a 15° range of motion: On an incline for intentional operation, avoiding unintentional activation when using the rudder.Stable and precise - Versatile ergonomic design, suitable for all types of flights (aerial combat, space adventure, civil flight, etc.): Removed heel support = rudder control with the ball of the foot. Mounted heel support = one hundred percent support of the foot on the pedal.	New arounf 450.- CHF (got it for 300.- used)

Stream Deck XL or + (optional)

Allow you to win time by creating shortcuts for preflight, flight. There is a lot of free and paid extension for the Stream Deck at https://flightsim.to/others/stream-deck/1

If youre on a budget you can also use a cheap tablet and Touch Portal (Android/iOS) https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=rils.apps.touchportal&hl=en

Logitech Flight panels

Saitek has been bought by Logitech, and they have nice panels.

Logitech Flight Switch Panel

• Switch panel

You don’t need the Logitech Flight Switch Panel if you already have the Honeycomb Alpha (yoke) and Bravo (throttle quadrant). Here’s why:

• The Honeycomb Alpha already has a master battery, alternator, avionics, and light switches, covering most of what the Logitech panel offers.
• The Honeycomb Bravo includes a landing gear lever with LED indicators, which is one of the key features of the Logitech panel.
• The Logitech panel primarily adds additional switches for lights, fuel pump, de-icing, and magneto selection, but you can easily map those to the Bravo or Alpha. Unless you really want dedicated physical switches for every function.

Logitech Flight Multi Panel

• Multi panel

you don’t need the Logitech Flight Multi Panel if you already have the Honeycomb Alpha (yoke) and Bravo (throttle quadrant). The Bravo Throttle Quadrant already includes an autopilot panel with knobs and buttons for altitude, heading, vertical speed, and other essential autopilot functions. This effectively makes the Logitech panel redundant. However, if you want additional LCD readouts for autopilot settings or prefer the Logitech layout, you could still use it, but it’s not necessary.

Logitech Flight Radio Panel

• Radio panel

What the Logitech Flight Radio Panel Adds:

• Dedicated radio tuning (COM, NAV, ADF, XPDR)
• Quick frequency changes without needing to use mouse/keyboard.
• More realism if you frequently interact with radios (e.g., VATSIM, IFR flights).

Do You Need It?

• If you mostly fly VFR, the Bravo’s dials and buttons can handle COM/NAV switching just fine.
• If you fly IFR often, having a separate radio stack can improve immersion and efficiency.
• If you use VR a lot, physical radio controls can make tuning easier without relying on VR controllers.

Alternative?

• Use an on-screen radio stack (in-sim pop-ups).
• Map radio controls to Bravo’s knobs and switches (less intuitive but works).
• Consider an iPad with Air Manager for a touchscreen radio stack.

If you like having dedicated, easy-to-use radio controls, then the Logitech panel is a good add-on. Otherwise, the Bravo can handle most of it with some extra mappings.

Two Logitech Flight Radio Panel better than one?

Some people use two Logitech Flight Radio Panels to increase efficiency and realism, especially for IFR flying. Here’s why:

1. Quick Access to Multiple Frequencies

Each Logitech Flight Radio Panel has two frequency displays (active & standby), and you can toggle between:

• COM1 / COM2 (for ATC communications)
• NAV1 / NAV2 (for VOR/ILS navigation)
• ADF (for NDB navigation)
• XPDR (for squawk codes)

With one panel, you have to switch modes frequently. With two, you can dedicate:

• One for COM1 & COM2 (handling ATC comms without switching modes).
• One for NAV1 & NAV2 or ADF & XPDR (for quick navigation adjustments).

2. More Realistic Setup

In real aircraft, radios are usually separate units in the stack. Two panels allow:

• Permanent COM & NAV displays, making tuning easier.
• Faster frequency changes without switching modes mid-flight.

3. IFR & VATSIM Flying

Pilots who fly IFR (especially on VATSIM or IVAO) need to change frequencies constantly. With two panels:

• One panel can handle ATC frequencies (COM1/COM2).
• The other can handle NAV aids & squawk codes.

This makes operations faster, smoother, and more immersive.

4. Convenience in VR

If you’re flying in VR, using two panels means less button switching and more intuitive frequency management, so you don’t have to fiddle with menus or controllers.

Do You Need Two?

• If you fly casual VFR, one panel (or even just the Bravo) is enough.
• If you fly serious IFR, especially online, two panels can greatly improve workflow.
• If you prefer max realism, a dual-panel setup mimics real aircraft radio stacks.

You can find them used everywhere. The Honeycomb yoke provide already (Switch) and (Multi), the radio panel is a “nice to have”.

Drivers

In Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, you MUST manualy start the Logitech Plugin. It’s noch automatically initialising with the start of MSFS 2024. Install the driver https://download01.logi.com/web/ftp/pub/techsupport/simulation/MSFS_Plugin_x64_Software_8.0.313.0.exe and run the exe before starting flight simulator 2024. So, if you have the plug-in installed, create a shortcut on the desktop with this adress and the start arguments at the end: “C:\Program Files\Logitech\Microsoft Flight Simulator Plugin\LogiMicrosoftFlightSimulator.exe” –run –force

The Logitech driver has not been updated for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 yet, and is limited. There is a project Spad.next that let you customize all buttons and switches, work great but require a one time payment.

Simulation Rig (really nice to have)

I use Next Level Racing seat pro and stand pro.

Assembling

Next level Racing printed gallery

TODO

You want more 3D print?

• Next Level Racing 3d print at MakerWorld (Bambu lab - Free)
• Next Level Racing 3d print at Thingiverse (All - Free)
• Next Level Racing 3d print at Printables (Prusa - Free)
• Next Level Racing 3d print at Cults3D (All - Free & $$$)
• Next Level Racing 3d print at Yeggi (All - Free & $$$)

Screen estate

Simulator enviroment dilemna… You can go cheap or crazy expensive really fast.

Use real MFD

Going with physical and expensive hardware MFD!

Some MFD examples:

• https://flightsimdiy.com 500.- and up
• https://www.realsimgear.com up to 2500.-
• Thrustmaster MFD panel
• Logitech MFD panel , try to grab them second hand! (110.- to 170.-)
• DIY from thingiverse, e.g. https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:5738740
• MFD can also be build, a raspberry pi, a 3D printed enclosure and linux air player

Recommended is to use a touch panel or monitor and buy Air manager v4 ( https://www.siminnovations.com/shop/air-manager-desktop/ ) to you simulate any panel on a touch screen monitor (USB) or iPad so you can avoid buying costly MFD.

Install Air Manager on iPad (22€ iOS, 23 CHF Android) and connect XPlane or Microsoft Simulator 2024

Glas cockpit

A glass cockpit is a modern aircraft cockpit that replaces traditional analog gauges and dials with electronic displays, typically LCD or LED screens. These displays show flight information such as altitude, airspeed, heading, and navigation data. The Garmin G1000 is one of the most popular glass cockpit systems, widely used in general aviation, training aircraft, and some business jets.

Key Components of a Glass Cockpit with Garmin G1000:

1. Primary Flight Display (PFD):
   The PFD provides essential flight information, including:

   • Attitude Indicator (pitch and roll)
   • Airspeed Indicator
   • Altimeter
   • Vertical Speed Indicator (VSI)
   • Horizontal Situation Indicator (HSI), showing navigation and heading
   • Flight Director cues

2. Multi-Function Display (MFD):
   The MFD complements the PFD by displaying additional data:

   • Moving map with GPS navigation
   • Engine parameters
   • Weather radar (if equipped)
   • Traffic information (with ADS-B or TCAS systems)
   • Checklist and system diagnostics

3. Integrated Avionics Suite:
   The G1000 integrates various systems, such as:

   • GPS navigation
   • Autopilot
   • Traffic and weather data integration
   • Radio communication (VHF)

Advantages of a Glass Cockpit with G1000:

• Improved Situational Awareness: The PFD and MFD provide a clear and intuitive overview of flight data.
• Reduced Workload: Features like a flight director and autopilot simplify complex tasks.
• Customization: Pilots can tailor displays to show relevant information.
• Training Efficiency: Standardized layouts across aircraft make transitioning between planes easier.

Training tips

Using the Garmin G1000 for flight training offers significant benefits due to its advanced features and intuitive interface. Here are some tips to maximize its potential for training:

1. Learn the Basics Before Flying

• Familiarize Yourself with the G1000 Simulator
  Garmin offers a G1000 PC Trainer for practice. It allows you to explore the system on the ground, helping you learn without the pressures of flight.

• Understand the Layout

  • PFD (Primary Flight Display): Focuses on real-time flight data (attitude, airspeed, altitude, heading).
  • MFD (Multi-Function Display): Displays navigation charts, engine data, traffic, and weather.
  • Control Knobs & Buttons: Get used to the dual-function knobs, softkeys, and menus.

• Study the Pilot’s Guide
  Garmin provides a detailed pilot’s guide for the G1000. Spend time understanding the key features, including GPS navigation, autopilot, and emergency functions.

2. Start with Core Skills

• Basic Flight Instruments
  Practice interpreting the PFD for attitude, airspeed, heading, and altitude. Use the HSI (Horizontal Situation Indicator) to integrate navigation with situational awareness.

• GPS Navigation

  • Learn to input and follow flight plans.
  • Practice direct-to navigation.
  • Use the map for awareness but verify with other navigation aids (VOR, ADF).

• Flight Director and Autopilot

  • Understand how to enable and follow the flight director cues.
  • Gradually introduce autopilot functions, starting with basic modes like heading (HDG) and altitude (ALT) hold.

3. Practice Emergency Scenarios

• Simulate Instrument Failures

  • Learn how to recognize and respond to PFD or MFD failures.
  • Use backup instruments or switch displays (e.g., using the reversionary mode).

• Engine Monitoring

  • Use the MFD to monitor engine parameters and understand abnormal indications.
  • Practice responding to alerts (e.g., high oil temperature or low fuel).

• Terrain Awareness

  • Use the terrain map and alerts to avoid Controlled Flight Into Terrain (CFIT).

4. Develop Advanced Skills

• IFR Training

  • Use the G1000 for precise IFR approaches (ILS, RNAV, and VOR).
  • Practice loading and flying instrument approaches using the MFD for situational awareness.

• Traffic Awareness

  • If equipped with ADS-B, familiarize yourself with traffic alerts and avoidance strategies.

• Weather Integration

  • Learn to interpret weather data on the MFD (if equipped with XM Weather or equivalent).

5. In-Flight Tips

• Plan Ahead
  Always set up your flight plan, radios, and autopilot before takeoff to minimize distractions.

• Scan Outside
  Don’t get fixated on the screens. Maintain a balance between monitoring the G1000 and looking outside.

• Slow Down When Needed
  If overwhelmed, ask for vectors or hold in a safe area to sort things out on the G1000.

6. Post-Flight Review

• Analyze Recorded Data
  If your aircraft supports it, download flight data for review. Use tools like Garmin Pilot or CloudAhoy to analyze your performance.

• Debrief with an Instructor
  Discuss what went well and what could be improved.

Knobster (nice to have)

Allows you to control every wheel and button of your flight simulation software like Air Manager or Air Player Cockpit Panel, also works in VR with knobXP for xplane or knobFS for Microsoft flight simulator

https://siminnovations.com/wiki/index.php?title=KnobFS

The knobster can be build on your own but costs are really close to price asked…

Touch display With HDMI

you may need a lot of HDMI cable and support (commercial MFD use USB port instead).

You need to use Pop Out Panel Manager (Free) or Air Manager V4

Touch display with tablet

Use either

• Air Manager v4
• simionic but may be outdated The most immersive! You can use a free tool to define what will be rendered by the simulator and what not: you keep your physical panels visible!

Motion platform (really nice to have)

• Qubic System QS-S25 https://qubicsystem.com/product/qs-s25/ 30k CHF 460kg!
• DoF Reality P6 Pro https://dofreality.com/product/racing/motion-racing-rig-6-axis-pro-p6/ 8000.- CHF

Eye tracker (really nice to have)

You can just setup a tracker system for free with an android phone, droidcam phone app and windows app, trackAl on pc, and also openTrack. Works great.

Vibrations (really nice to have)

Do It Yourself

You just need a cheap transducer (e.g. https://www.amazon.it/Rockwood-Bodyshaker/dp/B002LQAHPE) , a cheap amplifier (e.g. https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B06Y67PZB1) , some cables and maybe a usb sound card. Plug everything together and run the simshaker software or https://github.com/SHWotever/SimHub/wiki/Shake-It-for-bass-shakers (Car)

https://forums.mudspike.com/t/feedback-for-flight-simulation-2020/10886

ButtKicker

You can install the buttkicker https://thebuttkicker.com but it can cost up to 1000.- CHF

Mixed Reality

You need

• Meta Quest 3
• OpenKneeboard (Free) or https://flightsim.to/file/64739/color-panel-for-vr-passthrough

Quest 3 and RTX 4080 super. I have been experimenting with Virtual Desktop and Airlink. I can run the game at a very high resolution over 3000 pixel per eye. 200 LOD in Terrain details and 140 LOD in object details. Trees in Low and the rest is medium and some high and Ultra texture. It runs fine and overall is sharp. I have to use ASW and DLSS Quality. It runs smoother in Virtual Destkop BUT not as sharp. With arilink, is the opposite. Feels not as smooth but could keep up at 36 fps with 72 Hz refresh rate. The color, contrast, and sharpness are better with Airlink. My main issue with the EFB. Is only functional if your planes have the actual EFB holder. Even that, the texts are blurry because they are too smooth. I could barely make changes on my flight plan with it WHILE flying at the same time. Some planes I have to pause it and making changes to it outside of VR.

3D print

• https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4554130 for iPad Air or any 11 inches tablet
• https://makerworld.com/en/models/33439 for any iPad/tablet

Computer Software

You need:

• Somehow a powerful computer, recommended is AMD AM5 7800X3D, Radeon 7900 XTX or Nvidia Geforce RTX 4080
• Windows 11
• Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 and or Xplane 12

X-Plane 12

X-Plane 12 is the latest version of the X-Plane flight simulation software, developed by Laminar Research. It is a highly realistic and advanced flight simulator aimed at aviation enthusiasts, flight training, and professional pilots. X-Plane is known for its detailed physics engine, realistic aircraft behavior, and support for a wide range of hardware and plugins. Work on Windows/macOS/Linux.

Guimbal Cabri G2 helicopter in X-Plane 12

The Guimbal Cabri G2 is a two-seat helicopter designed by Bruno Guimbal and produced by Hélicoptères Guimbal (France). The G2 initial demonstrator flew in 1992 and entered commercial service in 2008. It received type certification from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) in December 2007. In 2015 it received type certification from the FAA, and began operations in the US.

The VSKYLABS helicopters development and testing process are using the Pro Flight Trainer Puma X flight controls system as the main and standard-hardware equipment for development and testing in X-Plane by LR. An installation and setup guide, including detailed X-Plane settings recommendations for each one of the VSKYLABS helicopters is on the making, and it will be posted in each helicopter product page as well as in the VSKYLABS Support forums.

https://www.vskylabs.com/p/vskylabs-cabri-g2/ $29 to $14.50

A very useful resource is CABRI-USA. In their website, the Pilot Flight Manual (“for information only” version - which may not be mandatorily updated) is available for the public.

• CABRI-USA website
• CABRI-USA G2-Manual page

BC Helicopters are a Canadian helicopter flight training school, operating the Cabri G2 (and other helicopters). They have a very exciting YouTube channel (called ‘Pilot Yellow’) in which they share their daily routines, flying practices and world wide adventures.

• BC Helicopters website
• Pilot Yellow YouTube channel

Logitech flight panels in X-Plaxe 12 with xsaitekpanels

An excellent open source project located at https://github.com/sparker256/xsaitekpanels Get the binary of the latest release here: https://forums.x-plane.org/index.php?/files/file/14646-xsaitekpanels-linwinmac/

Unpack the zip in xplane12/resources/plugins

Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024

Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 is the next-generation installment in the Microsoft Flight Simulator series, developed by Asobo Studio and published by Microsoft. It builds on the success of Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 by introducing enhanced features, new gameplay elements, and expanded realism for virtual aviation enthusiasts. Work on Windows/Xbox only.

Logitech flight panels in Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024

You can use the official drivers for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 in 2024! Install the old drivers, copy the dll into the new Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 plugins folder https://support.logi.com/hc/en-gb/articles/360024848713--Downloads-Flight-Instrument-Panel

Addons

• https://flightsim.to
• https://flightsim.to/news/add-ons-to-enhance-your-flight-simulator-2024-experience
• Christmas extemsion https://orbxdirect.com/product/santa-run-2024
• https://fslivetrafficliveries.com
• https://vpilot.rosscarlson.dev

If you’re flying small planes in France and want to fly patterns realistically you will know that MSFS doesn’t always give you valid landing instructions. In France every aerodrome has a VAC (Visual Approach Chart), which is published for free and are easy to find online. luse a mobile app usually called IVAC https://.play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=fr.julienroze.ivac … But there are lots of lists of them online also, eg https://www.aero-hesbaye.be/vac/vac_fr.htm

VATSIM (Virtual Air Traffic Simulation Network):

A global online network for flight simulation enthusiasts.

• Allows virtual pilots and air traffic controllers (ATC) to interact in real-time.
• Pilots use flight simulation software like Microsoft Flight Simulator or X-Plane to fly while VATSIM provides a realistic ATC experience.
• Controllers on VATSIM use radar simulation software to manage air traffic.
• Real-world-like ATC communications (via voice or text).
• A large, active community with events and training opportunities.
• Free to use. https://vatsim.net

Beyond ATC

BeyondATC is an advanced air traffic control (ATC) add-on for Microsoft Flight Simulator, designed to enhance the virtual flying experience by providing more realistic and immersive ATC interactions. Leveraging cutting-edge AI technology, it offers features such as:

• Ultra-Realistic AI Voices: Over 250 voices with regional accents from almost every country, enhancing the authenticity of communications.
• Support for IFR and VFR Flights: Accommodates both Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) and Visual Flight Rules (VFR) operations, catering to various flying preferences.
• FAA and ICAO Phraseology: Incorporates realistic phraseology developed with real air traffic controllers worldwide, ensuring authentic communication standards.
• Full SimBrief Integration: Seamless integration with SimBrief allows for streamlined flight planning and execution.
• AI Traffic Control: Manages AI traffic, providing instructions to both the user and AI-controlled aircraft, contributing to a dynamic and realistic airspace environment.

Tablet

A tablet can be really handy, but I think its best use is for charts, which you can load up from a second screen’s browser using Microsoft’s Xbox only official flight planner or the free repository at chartfox.org

Study materials

Near real-time analysis of general aviation accidents

• https://www.aopa.org/training-and-safety/air-safety-institute/accident-analysis/richard-g-mcspadden-report
• https://asn.flightsafety.org/

Motor failure after takeoff

• https://pilotinstitute.com/the-impossible-turn-engine-failure-after-takeoff/

Great accessories maker

• https://flyhoneycomb.com
• https://www.logitechg.com/en-ch/products/flight/
• https://virpil-controls.eu/
• https://winwingsim.com/view/

Forums

• https://forum.aerosoft.com

FAQ

• https://www.reddit.com/r/MicrosoftFlightSim/wiki/faq/