I personally try to only use cockpit view but I know other people dont and I'm totally okay with that. The reasons why are I like the cockpit view and I get reaslly disorientated using freelook in virtual cockpit, I like looking at the dials and it feels more 'right' to me.
Downsides are it limits what planes I can allow myself to use due to the lack of modelled cockpits (roll on DLC) and the tiny field of view you get looking forward.
I found bombing the trucks to be the real PITA of that training mission, I think I did use virtual cockpit for that.
I wont offer online tips as I really really stink in dogfights
but I have fun doing it and come back for more. Plus it makes any kills I
do get all the sweeter.