But you're not a real pilot...
In recent days I’ve seen a few comments crop up on the YouTube channel essentially dragging me for not being a “real pilot” - not owning or operating any of the aircraft we all simulate flying in the simulator. Apparently I often give the impression of being some sort of expert - and therefore my thoughts and opinions might carry more weight than they should. If this is true, then I humbly apologise.
All I have ever set out to achieve with the YouTube channel is sharing an interest I love, and to share what I have learned along the way - be that how to somewhat-correctly fly a general aviation aircraft, or how to somewhat-correctly work through the start-up procedures of a 70 ton airliner.
I am not a real pilot, and I have never made any claim to be one. I am also no expert - just an enthusiast.
There are many fantastic channels out there recorded by professional pilots - the likes of “Into the Blue Simulations”, “320 Sim Pilot”, and “737NGDriver”. There are also some great flight simulator enthusiast channels out there, such as “Growling Sidewinder” and the “Grim Reapers” who display the kind of knowledge and skills that I will always aspire to.
I would like to take the opportunity to give huge thanks to the numerous real-world GA pilots, professional pilots, and instructors that have helped me along the way - often requesting anonymity because they fully realise that holding their head above the battlements opens them to the foaming invective I sometimes receive (and when all is considered, life is far too short for that nonsense).
Viewers of the channel have perhaps not known until now that this quiet team has been guiding, helping, and improving my skills. One of the CFIs recently asked if his feedback was overstepping the line - given that this is only a simulator after all. I responded that his feedback had been absolutely invaluable - that essentially there is no such thing as bad feedback from a trusted source.
Many have also shared the opinion that it doesn’t do to always share perfect stories - happy outcomes. The learning process is FAR more valuable - the mistakes, the misjudgements, the accidents, and the occasionally comedic “lack of talent” moments.
Anyway.
I just wanted to reach out to everybody that watches, subscribes, reads, comments, and likes the videos I share - your participating in my journey is hugely appreciated - and remember…
I’m NOT A REAL PILOT :)
Jon, I am a"real pilot" ... flew for a few years back in the 70's and 80's so I am not current and a lot has changed from then till now ... your tutorial videos have been EXTREEMELY helpful in updating my knowledge base. I applaud your level of detail and ability to provide guidance in a logical and common sense way. Never mind the naysayers, sadly others seem to have to knock others in an attempt to make themselves feel more important. Keep up the great work, love your channel.
Only a dyslexic illiterate moron could ever accuse you of such claims, seeing as you state quite clearly that you are not a real pilot. on your excellent YouTube channel.
Don't let the buffoons get at you.
You provide a very useful service for inept simmers like me to get better. I've been involved in this fabulous hobby since the first flight sim (a very cranky single line drawing image of a B747) in Microsoft Color Basic predating the Speccy and FS 95 by about 6 years, and I still can't master landings. One day with your inadvertent help I will do it.
Keep up the good work.