In the ever-expanding world of flight simulation, few names are as unique or as creatively DIY as Roger Dodger Aviation. Known for making home cockpit building accessible and fun, Roger Dodger offers a series of flight simulator training videos, cockpit blueprints, and hands-on guides that cater to everyone from casual simmers to hardcore aviation enthusiasts DopeBox.
If you’re dreaming of building your own flight simulator setup without spending thousands of dollars, this in-depth Roger Dodger Flight Simulator review is for you.
What Is Roger Dodger Flight Simulator?
Roger Dodger Aviation, founded by Matt Thomas, is a U.S.-based company that specializes in DIY flight simulator cockpits. Instead of selling pre-built rigs, Roger Dodger provides detailed plans and instructional videos that guide you through building your own simulator with affordable materials, like PVC pipe and wood.
It’s not a plug-and-play product — it’s a project. And that’s part of the charm.
What’s Included?
The Roger Dodger DIY packages typically include:
Step-by-step video tutorials
Printable blueprints and diagrams
Recommended parts lists (hardware, displays, throttle quadrants, etc.)
Setup guidance for flight sim software like Microsoft Flight Simulator and X-Plane
Customization tips for adapting your build to specific aircraft or VR
Most popular builds include the DIY Deluxe Desktop Flight Sim and the Triple-Screen Cockpit for FSX/MSFS, all designed with space-saving and cost-effectiveness in mind.
🧩 Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
Affordable: Materials are inexpensive and widely available at hardware stores.
Educational: Great for those who want to learn about flight sim setups from the ground up.
Modular: You can build basic setups and add on over time.
Community Support: Access to a helpful user base and support from Roger Dodger directly.
VR-Ready Options: Some plans are optimized for virtual reality flight simming.
❌ Cons
DIY Skill Required: You’ll need tools, patience, and basic handyperson skills.
Not Plug-and-Play: These aren’t prebuilt systems — expect some assembly time.
No Motion Systems: These are static cockpits — no full-motion features here.
Software Not Included: You still need to buy your own sim software and compatible hardware.
Who Is It For?
Roger Dodger’s flight sim kits are perfect for:
Home sim hobbyists looking to level up from just a joystick on a desk.
STEM educators wanting to build simulators in classrooms or workshops.
Flight students needing cost-effective ground training setups.
Gamers and VR users seeking immersion on a budget.
If you enjoy hands-on projects and have a love for aviation, Roger Dodger offers a deeply satisfying DIY route.
Real User Experience
Users often report that building a Roger Dodger cockpit is surprisingly fun and rewarding. Most spend between 5–15 hours on the build, depending on the model and their experience level. The tutorials are clear and detailed, with a lot of attention to avoiding common pitfalls.
While it’s not a replacement for a professional-grade setup, it creates a highly immersive and personalized sim experience that beats sitting at a plain desk any day.
Software Compatibility
Roger Dodger setups work with all the big names:
Microsoft Flight Simulator (MSFS 2020 & 2024)
X-Plane 11 & 12
Prepar3D
DCS World (for some builds)
You’ll need to configure your hardware and displays accordingly, but the included guides help bridge the gap for new users.
Final Verdict
If you’re serious about building your own flight simulator cockpit and don’t mind picking up a drill Roger Dodger Flight Simulator kits offer one of the best bang-for-buck experiences in the flight sim world. You don’t need a massive budget, and you’ll walk away with something you built with your own hands.
It’s not for everyone. But for DIY enthusiasts, simmers who love tinkering, or even classrooms looking for engaging STEM activities, it’s an absolute winner.
