I think the least you should be able to do is basic flying . Its a real pain when people ask ..... how do you start it up !!!
Most servers are very friendly , and most people are more than willing to help you out , as they themselves were also once in the same position .
As others mentioned above , get on TS or Vent and speak with the people , its also easier and quicker to explain something to someone , and the immersion factor is a lot better .
Hope to see you on the servers soon , we can all learn from each other .
Oh yeah , dont ever take someone out intentionally ..... your name can get about real fast and then you may find yourself banned from certain servers , and dont blow the shit outta your own tanks or airfield .... lol .