Hey Peter,

Short answer is yes with a couple caveats. You can fly the sim with the same mindset as in real life and train accordingly.

The main caveat is that the Condor weather model is more predictable than reality. This is especially the case when it comes to ridge soaring. While the Condor ridge model is very good, you can't take it too literally when it comes to local wind-flows, suppression and things like that.

So when it comes to things like final glides and ridge flying in real life, you have to give considerably more margin to account for the less predictable nature of the air.

But, using Condor to look at the terrain, think through the landing options, practice transitions, etc. is a very good way to train. It is an excellent tool to build your situational awareness. And for the most part, the weather model does a good job.

And it's fun!

All the best,
Daniel