Learning spotting/tracking targets?

[Voyager]

Getting back into Il-2 after the big updates and am finding my single biggest problem is spotting and tracking aircraft visually. I recall this was something I had difficulty with originally but at the time I was more focused on learning the aircraft and pilotage skills so did did not focus on it much. 

 

What I'm wondering is, what are the most effective ways to train the ability to spot and keep track of other air targets? I'm thinking this must be something modern fighter pilots are trained in ("Lose sight, lose the fight") even if it was not taught during the WWII period. 

 

Any suggestions? Fly more is one thing, but training requires trial, feedback, and correction, and right now, I'm not sure how to get meaningful feedback on trying to spot things. 

 

Thank you, 

 

Harry Voyager

[US63_SpadLivesMatter]

Fly career with the icons off for a while, to get used to what aircraft will look like at different distances and aspects.

[SharpeXB]

Use the zoom view a lot. Map it to an axis if you can so it’s easy to zoom in and out at any speed. 

 

Hold your view still and watch for anything moving. 

 

Oh yeah and check six a lot ? that’s usually where you’ll find the enemy. 

Just now, hrafnkolbrandr said:

Fly career with the icons off for a while, to get used to what aircraft will look like at different distances and aspects.

This!

Much of multiplayer is full of empty skies which isn’t great practice. Career gives you a lot of practice looking at other aircraft. 

[Voyager]

@hrafnkolbrandr And wouldn't you know, Pat Wilson just released a new version of his campaign generator, now with all the Allies, and set on the Rhine... (Insert very manly squeeee here)

[von_Michelstamm]

I imagine 4v4 QMB would be great for learning to id quickly

 

Edited October 16, 2019 by von_Michelstamm