As awkward as it sounds, knowing what l have just learnt, l would try connecting my USB controllers when the sim is loaded at the sim’ menu if l had CTD’s in the early stages of the simulator loading.
EDIT: In retrospect I would try with no USB game controllers connected.
Having now done a little bit of searching, l see that some people are having CTD’s related to USB controllers.
I take comfort from the fact that you have a single pause when using the trim wheel for the first time.
There is something ‘cranky’ going on in the background with this simulator.
Thanx, Capt’ 
BRGDS.
Charles.