I've been taking one of these courses each day and have been learning a lot and further reinforcing what I already know. The vast majority of what is discussed in these courses does indeed apply to Flight Simulator if you like to inject as much realism as possible into how you fly in the sim. Furthermore, your completion of these courses goes on record with your account (free AOPA member sign-up option). I've read in numerous articles about people recommending an actual AOPA membership even if you're just a sim flyer. I don't think I see justification for that yet for myself, but there are certainly plenty of other great resources this organization offers for free. Would suggest looking through their site more as well.AOPA Air Safety Institute Interactive Courses

I don't think I see justification for that yet for myself, but there are certainly plenty of other great resources this organization offers for free. Would suggest looking through their site more as well.

Don't think of it as a "membership fee," but consider it a subscription to the terrific monthly magazine!

My AOPA membership is the best $60 I spend each year. Forget that I get that money back the first time I rent a car while on holidays (discount for AOPA members at all the major places). I also get the courses, the free flight planner and the awesome magazine. I really like the "Never again" series, where pilots talk about the trouble they got into and out of.Geoff the admin here was the one who convinced me to join. Great idea :(