I have serious doubts that most of the critics in here have even flown this game, but for those of you that have and want more .....
'realistic'
Fix your settings from the advanced panel as you see fit.
My personal preferences are below.
I fly for hours just a 100meters or so off the deck with these settings. Closest representation to actual flight ever.... but hey I understand some people don't want to 'fly in a painting' they prefer to fly in a 'cartoon' - to each their own.