RC Helicopter Flight Simulators

From Transcendental Technologies, this is a great flight simulator that comes in multiple editions such as the Dragonfly, Blade, T-Rex, and Esky editions with replicas of popular RC helicopters. Or get the Super Helicopter edition and learn to fly 'em all. It has photo-realistic scenery and 3D RC models. I recommend getting a pair of 3D glasses to intensify the flying experience. In multiplayer mode you and a friend can fly together on the same field over an Internet/LAN connection. Playing around with the limited demo I got the most enjoyment from the realistic flight characteristics. All editions come with a USB Interface for your own transmitter or purchase a USB Transmitter Controller. Watch a video of the PRE-Flight Simulator.

One of three flight simulators from Reality Craft, this one offers 8 helicopter models for indoor, outdoor, and aerobatic flight. In addition to the software, it comes with a 6 channel USB controller. Speed up or slow down the simulation to suit your skill level. Intentionally create engine trouble or other problems to learn how to recover. No demo for this version.

I was so impressed by the demo of the ClearView RC Flight Simulator from SVK Systems that I bought it immediately after the time had expired. The demo offers easy and expert versions of one airplane and two helicopters. Or, purchase the full version for even more electric and nitro-powered RC aircraft. You not only have a lot of RC models to choose from but you can even create and import your own aircraft and flying fields. On their website you can download user-submitted models to add to your collection. Fly with a friend in multiplayer mode over the internet. I also highly recommend using 3D LCD shutter glasses with this flight simulator. Watch a video of the ClearView RC Flight Simulator

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The most realistic, and perhaps best known flight simulator on the market, it's expensive -- but well worth it for serious flight training. RealFlight from Great Planes has such an extensive model RC aircraft library to choose from that you won't grow tiresome of this software for quite awhile. It comes complete with a transmitter controller by Futaba, and features like training aids, virtual coach, night flying mode, active and reactive backgrounds, and multi-player modes. If you're skeptical about whether or not to take the plunge, watch a video and download the demo. You can also check to see if your local hobby shop has a demo model up and running to get a more detailed look at the software.

Earlier but very good version of RealFlight. Since it's been around longer there are tons of add-ons and RC aircraft models for it. Includes 3D flying sites, lots of planes, and plenty of helicopters too. G3 demo screenshots

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While Transcendental Technologies offers multiple RC helicopter editions, the standard edition features several kinds of aircraft -- and you can download additional models such as a DC-3, an RAF SE5 biplane, or a Korean conflict era MASH Helicopter. It comes with the software and a USB interface for use with your own transmitter. Download a demo

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