What does it feel like to fly an airplane?

If you are new to flight simulation, you might be struggling with a mouse and keyboard or thinking about ordering specialized hardware. Let us help! Every future Pro has to begin somewhere and we aim to bring more fun to those very important first steps.


After easy setup, your iPhone will serve as your airplane’s control stick, connected wirelessly to your graphics-capable PC.
It feels more natural than using your computer's keyboard.


The thrill of flight unites a lot of people around the world and many of them put immense amounts of skill and attention into flight simulation over years. Luckily, some of them chose to share part of their work with everyone, completely free. From kids’ flying games to professional pilot training, there is something for everyone. We compiled a short list below to help you pick your try.


Completely free. Start flying today!

Vector Fury
$: Completely free. Get and run it today!
Our take: While kids’ play, still shows the basics of airplane handling. And it's few clicks away!
Microsoft Flight Simulator
$: Free in subscription promo. More...
Our take: Whole world for your flight. A little less than completely free, as of late 2022 you can still get one month of play for 1$ in Game Pass subscription promo.
DCS World
Our take: Needs learning, but one of the ways to start with learning to fly seriously, for free.
X-Plane 12
$: Free time-limited flight. Get and run it today! (long download)
Our take: Needs learning, but one of the ways to start with learning to fly seriously.
YsFlight
$: Completely free. Get and run it today!
Our take: While having 20 years old looks, it 'runs on everything' and enjoys a wealth of mods accumulated over time.


Do you find the pro simulations too hard to try? Check some videos first to guide your way!
For Microsoft Flight Simulator, DCS World, X-Plane 12, YsFlight, or just watch some basics of flying.


..finished reading and still not decided? Try our full list with paid options included.