I recommend that you just uncheck all failures from the FS menus ... Those can just make your simming a frustrating experience.

Thanks for the tip! I do aim for realism, since I hope to study for a PPL some day... So realism on all accounts is important for me. :( Of course, if that means getting FSUIPC to reduce wind shifts and turning off the 'realism' failure effects then so be it. It is all about 'As real as it gets' after all.If I misunderstand anything else I'll let you all know.Cheers all!

Yes, I may look into getting Active Sky at some point - at least when I have a better PC - good job on the advertising there! :(

Active Sky is definitely nice to have as it seems to do a great job of handling weather, it also simulates updrafts and downdrafts to a degree, though I'm not sure what all it takes into consideration when it does it. It also allows for a lot more fine-tuning of weather as you can set minimums and maximums for just about everything. It also adds wake-turbulence, but I haven't quite whittled that down to a level that doesn't feel excessive.