I actually use a cheap Logitech 3D joystick, rather than more exotic yoke or Thrustmaster HOTAS or anything like that. Its ok.
I don't actually have the Saitek FIPS and I'm not sure I will get them unless I build an actual cockpit, rather than a 'sim pit'.
BUT, and its a big but (oo-er!) ... the rest of my panels (multi, switch, radio) simply must work if I am to get into AFS2.
The only caveat to that I have right now, is that in a short while (a few days after 05-Apr) I will be hiring for one week the new Vive Pro to try out on my P3Dv4 setup. My expectation is that I still won't think VR is where I'd want it to be yet ... I'm willing to be pleasantly surprised! It is possible, though I think unlikely, that maybe the Vive Pro will start my journey to VR ... in which case external hardware becomes somewhat redundant. But don't hold your breath...