Start Clean, Check the Device, Then Fly
A good simulator session starts with a few simple checks. The goal is not to troubleshoot the machine. It is to confirm the controls are ready and the session is set up the way you want.
Startup Checklist
Sit down and get comfortable
Adjust the seat so you can move the rudder pedals through their full travel without stretching. Keep the yoke centered while getting settled.
Look at the controls
Confirm the yoke, rudder pedals, throttle, mixture, trim wheel, flap switch, and any gear switch are in normal positions. Do not force a control.
Open Redbird Navigator
On the TD/TD2, Navigator is used on the simulator computer itself. If the main Navigator menu is already showing, you are ready to continue.
Check device status
Open the device/plug icon if available. Green means connected. Yellow usually means something is not detected. Do not start the flight until required devices are green.
Choose the flight
Use Dispatch for saved/scenario flights or Free Flight for a custom airport, runway, weather, and starting position.
Start and unpause
After the flight loads, check that the aircraft responds. Some TD/TD2 sessions begin paused; unpause from Navigator or the assigned pause key if needed.
Safety Notes
Use normal aircraft habits
Call out runway, heading, altitude, and checklist items as if you were in the airplane. The simulator is most useful when you treat it like training, not a game.
Do not force anything
If a lever, switch, yoke, pedal, or screen does not respond normally, stop and use the Troubleshooting page. Forcing hardware can make a simple issue worse.
Do not change admin settings
Regular customers should not change simulator management settings, admin passwords, system updates, or device configuration unless staff tells you to.
