Flight Sim Instruction: Putting Lessons to the Test

Working with a real-world flight instructor with expert-level simulation knowledge was the ideal combination.

Sean Siff

Thursday, June 12, 2025 at 08:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

Leaving Boston Logan International Airport (KBOS) on Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020. [Courtesy: Sean Siff/MSFS2020]

Key Takeaways:

The author describes an immersive instrument flight simulation from Boston to Portland, Maine, utilizing live human air traffic control (VATSIM) and real-world weather conditions.
During the flight, the author had to quickly adapt to an unexpected ATC instruction, switching from a pre-planned ILS approach to a challenging "Harbor Visual" approach into KPWM.
The experience highlights the significant realism and dynamic pressure achieved by combining a home flight simulator with live ATC, which creates an addictive and challenging environment.
The author credits prior instrument lessons with FlightSimCoach.com for building the confidence and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of the flight and adapt to unforeseen changes.

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A few weeks prior to writing this two-part flight sim series, the work I had completed with my FlightSimCoach.com instructor was beginning to pay off. With a few instrument lessons under my belt, I felt confident to try a relatively straightforward flight under instrument conditions in the simulator using the VATSIM live air traffic control service. I conducted this flight with “real” ATC, staffed by human volunteers who are welcoming to rookies but expect that you’ve adequately prepared.

Using the ForeFlight Route Advisor, I found a route from Boston (KBOS) to Portland, Maine (KPWM), that seemed like a good match for my current instrument experience. Having recently reviewed how to call for a clearance, I filed my first IFR flight plan, received my clearance from the VATSIM controller, and soon I was following the Logan Four departure out of the Class Bravo and on my way.