Skyfarer Academy and FlightSimExpo Partner to Advance Sim-to-Real Pilot Training

USA —  Skyfarer Academy  , the aviation training marketplace connecting pilots with certified flight instructors and flight schools, announced a new partnership with  Flight Simulation Association (FSA)   and  FlightSimExpo  , one of the world’s largest dedicated flight simulation events. The partnership brings together two complementary communities with a shared goal: helping flight simmers, aspiring pilots, and current pilots better understand how flight simulation and real-world flight training can work together throughout the aviation journey. As part of the collaboration, Skyfarer and FSA will work together on educational content, member benefits, and joint outreach initiatives that highlight practical pathways from flight simulation into real-world training — while also introducing simulation as a valuable training, proficiency, and currency tool for current pilots. Expanding the Sim-to-Real Aviation Pathway Flight simulation has become an increasingly important tool in aviation training, helping pilots build procedural knowledge, confidence, and situational awareness. However, many simmers and early-stage pilots struggle to understand how — and when — to translate that experience into real-world flight training. Through this partnership, Skyfarer and FSA aim to close that gap by combining simulation education with practical, real-world guidance from experienced instructors. As part of the collaboration:

• FSA Captain members will gain access to complimentary live online sessions with Skyfarer instructors, focused on translating flight simulation experience into real-world aviation training decisions, such as choosing a flight school or instructor, understanding early training expectations, and planning next steps.
• Skyfarer users will receive a discount to join Flight Simulation Association as an FSA Captain, unlocking the full range of member benefits including exclusive discounts, educational resources, and access to one-on-one home flight sim coaching.
• Both organizations will collaborate on educational content, community outreach, and joint promotion to highlight best practices for integrating simulation into real-world flying.

Looking Ahead to FlightSimExpo Skyfarer and FlightSimExpo will also collaborate on upcoming educational content and promotions leading into FlightSimExpo 2026, the aviation and flight sim convention coming to Saint Paul on June 12-14, 2026. This unique event features hands-on exhibits, how-to seminars, workshops, and tours—for everyone from experienced flight simmers and pilots to those new to aviation. Attendees will see the latest flight sim software available for desktop, mobile, and console platforms, while getting to try a wide variety of hardware and peripherals, motion platforms, virtual reality, home cockpit components, and more. FlightSimExpo regularly attracts thousands of attendees, including a significant percentage of pilots and student pilots, making it a natural environment for conversations about training pathways and aviation education. Statements:

• "Flight simulation is often the first touchpoint into aviation, but many people don’t know how to turn that interest into real-world training,” said Nick Tsang, Co-Founder & CEO of Skyfarer Academy. “Partnering with Flight Simulation Association and FlightSimExpo allows us to meet people where they are and help them take the next step with clarity and confidence.”
• “Our mission has always been to help people get more out of flight simulation,” said Evan Reiter, airline pilot and Co-Founder of Flight Simulation Association. “Working with Skyfarer lets us expand that mission into real-world aviation, giving our members practical guidance and access to experienced instructors when they’re ready to move forward.”

About Skyfarer AcademySkyfarer Academy is a U.S.-based aviation training marketplace that helps pilots and aspiring aviators find and book certified flight instructors and flight schools across the country. The platform supports both live online instruction and in-person training, with a focus on transparency, accessibility, and modern learning pathways. Learn more at https://skyfareracademy.comAbout Flight Simulation AssociationFlight Simulation Association (FSA) is a free-to-join global community dedicated to helping flight simulation enthusiasts learn, connect, and grow. FSA provides educational resources, coaching, discounts, and access to events designed to support simmers at every stage. Learn more at https://flightsimassociation.comAbout FlightSimExpoFlightSimExpo is one of the world’s largest events dedicated exclusively to flight simulation, bringing together thousands of enthusiasts, pilots, developers, and hardware manufacturers each year. The event offers hands-on experiences, educational sessions, and direct access to the latest in flight simulation technology. The show is open to the public and attendees of all ages and experience levels. FlightSimExpo 2026 will be held on June 12-14. Get tickets at https://flightsimexpo.com Source: Skyfarer Academy Photo Credit: Skyfarer Academy