DoctorQuest

Try looking at this article. It basically details how to set things up the way you appear to want them set up. Give that a look and see what sort of questions come up. (Article courtesy of MigBuster. :))

Where did you install the programs? Stay away from folders "Program Files" and "Program Files (x86)". What OS are you using?

Having worked with computers for 40+ years I have a lot of confidence in their capabilities but I also saw what happens if you don't have a human in there somewhere as a backup. A ground based backup would suffer from possible communication issues with the aircraft. Gepard is right that aviation automation has come a long way but to completely eliminate a flight crew is a huge step. I'm not sure I would fly on an aircraft that did not have at least one pilot to take over if there are issues with automation.

What little I have seen of Steam Deck it does not look like it really upholds its promise as "just another PC".

I will wait for Wrench to chime in but in the meantime is there anything here? https://combatace.com/forums/forum/368-modding-terrainsenvironments/

When you are ready for some mods, I always recommend that folks check out the "View all of our picks" link on the right side of the home page. (Scroll down a bit...you'll see it.) Lots of great suggestions from aircraft to cockpits to terrain to campaigns. And always, always, always follow any instructions for installing a mod to the letter. Most of the "tech support issues" we deal with here are self-inflicted. (I get to say this after years of self-inflicted experience.) That being said, I agree you should start with the stock game. Good luck and have fun!

Real Life (tm) sometimes has to take precedence. We are all hoping for the best for you. Good luck.

Scroll down and look at the right side of the main page. You will see an "Our Picks" section. This is a selection of the greatest hits at CombatAce. It is a good place to get you started on finding excellent mods. Have fun!

I have seen supplied single missions in YAP-RW start you off on the ramp but as mentioned before these are highly customized SINGLE missions. It is a very effective technique to add a bit more realism to the mission but it's a real pain to do. I appreciate the mission designers taking the time and effort to do so. For campaign and generated single missions I guess we're stuck with "In the air, near target" and "On the ground, at home base".

RIP

Agreed. One of my favorite sims. I still run the GOG version. I will be very interested to see what they do with pricing and where it will be offered on sale. Steam would be a no-go for me.

Turbosquid is mentioned earlier in the thread. A search for "aircraft 3d model" turned up quite a number.

Well, that varies between easy and impossible. I guess we take it a model at a time. I will defer to the 3D gurus to post models that might be a good fit. If I think I can help with a purchase I will certainly raise my hand.

How much does a model cost? I am worthless as a 3D modeler but I might be able to help with model purchasing.

I have to supposed there are some SMART coyotes out there somewhere. Nice they got some press.