Most of the editing you need to do requires editing .cfg files, and these can be opened with the regular Windows Notepad. For anything config files, I usually try notepad first.

Phil, you're missing nothing. The editor is cobblers. Don't use it even if you do get Pro.

The sliders are stoopid gimmicks. They only VARY numbers that are in the files by small amounts. They don't let you CHANGE them.

If you want to learn about fde editing do it manually. If I'd used the editor I'd never have done

..the first properly working autopilot with autothrottle for turboprops (I think)

..the first taildragger AI fde (I think)

and other stuff.

Use Wordpad to edit the cfg file and AirEd.exe to edit the air file (IMO the BEST air file editor there is).

Then lock the door (for a few weeks!!), take backups of the original files and start playing.

Remember - fde editing is NOT a science. There are no rules. M$ have kept nearly all the secrets to themselves, why I do not know because some of their default fdes stink - watch the 777 AI land). There is so much that is still unknown about the structure and working of the air file.

I get emails all the time asking me to tell people how to do it. I can't - all I can suggest is try to use aerodynamic principles (power, weight, lift, drag) and what you learn by experience.

So don't worry - if you're interested get going. Believe me it's great when you tweak an fde and get it 'right'. But beware. It can take a LOT of time and experimenting

Roger

Thanks all. But as I don't have th M$ editor I can't be tempted to use it  8).

Cheers
Phil