Few WWII heavy bombers have made such an impression on aviation fans as the Avro Lancaster 4-engined heavy bomber. This majestic big bird, designed by Avro's chief designer Roy Chadwick, has the looks, the history and myth that are needed to make a historic aircraft live forever.

Although there are only two airworthy Avro Lancasters left in the world, it is still possible to sort of "fly" the historic Avro bomber. MicroSoft Flight Simulator X (MSFS X) offers many flight sim options to fly the famous Lancaster bomber from behind your own computer desk. I can tell you from my own experience that this can become very realistic indeed: with the right choice of software and equipment you'll be so deeply immersed in the simulation that you'll break out in sweat at difficult landings, nefarious weather and dare-devil manoeuvres!

Oh yes, I certainly know that simulation is not the "real thing". But as far as the old Avro Lancaster bomber goes, a good simulation is the only way for us mere mortals to experience at least some of the thrill.