RealFlight Trainer Edition is built for people learning to fly, and the case for it is simple: crashes in the simulator cost nothing. Virtual Flight Instructor lessons work through the basics in a structured order, and the True-To-Life physics mean the habits you build at the desk transfer to the field rather than having to be unlearned.

The SLT6 is a real transmitter

Unlike a USB game controller, the included SLT6 is a working six-channel 2.4GHz transmitter using Spektrum SLT technology. It plugs into your PC via USB-C for the simulator, and it will also fly UMX ultra-micro aircraft fitted with SLT FHSS receivers. It also saves wear on your field radio. The SLT6 supplied is a Mode 2 transmitter, with throttle on the left stick. If you fly Mode 1 — still common at Australian clubs — this transmitter won't suit you, as the throttle ratchet is fixed on the left side and can't be swapped.

Aircraft included from the start

• Blade 230 S and 330 S helicopters with SAFE
• E-flite Habu STS 70mm EDF Jet with SAFE
• E-flite Apprentice STS 1.5m with SAFE
• HobbyZone Carbon Cub S 1.3m with SAFE
• HobbyZone AeroScout S 1.1m with SAFE
• HobbyZone Apprentice STOL S 700mm with SAFE
• HobbyZone Sport Cub S 525mm with SAFE

Two flying fields are available immediately: Eli Field with a paved runway, and Carl Henson Field with grass.

Unlockable content

After two hours of flying, a further seven aircraft unlock along with an indoor venue and an alpine field. After four hours, nine more aircraft unlock — including float variants — plus a lake for water flying and a sports field. Around two dozen "Next Step" models in total, so the simulator stays useful well past your first solo.

Multiplayer, adjustable wind and float flying are all included.

In the box

• RealFlight Trainer Edition activation card with Steam key and instructions
• Spektrum SLT6 6-channel transmitter/controller Mode 2 (throttle left)
• USB-C to USB cable

System requirements

• Windows 10 or 11, desktop or laptop
• Intel or AMD processor, DirectX 11 capable
• 4GB RAM (8GB recommended), 1.5GB free storage
• Internet connection to download Steam and the software

This is a digital download

The box contains an activation card, not a disc. You'll redeem the Steam key and download the software. There is no Mac, console or offline version.