FSMonitor — Live Flight Simulation News
Flight Panels and Aerosoft Bring Stream Deck Support to the A340-600 Pro
Flight Panels and Aerosoft release Stream Deck support for the Airbus A340-600 Pro, compatible with Microsoft Flight Simulator. This integration allows users to control the aircraft's systems using Elgato Stream Deck devices. The update specifically targets the A340-600 Pro model developed by Aerosoft. The Stream Deck support includes mapped buttons for key aircraft functions such as autopilot, lighting, and engine controls, improving workflow for home cockpit builders. The update is available immediately as a free addition to existing A340-600 Pro owners. This feature enhances the operational control of the aircraft by allowing physical button presses instead of relying solely on mouse clicks or keyboard shortcuts.
Bob Dispatcher bundles several MSFS pre-flight jobs into one paid app
Bob Dispatcher is a new utility developed for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 and 2024, offered at a price of €11.99. The application consolidates multiple pre-flight tasks into a single tool designed to streamline the preparation process before flying. The software integrates addon management, allowing users to organize and control their installed addons efficiently. It also performs GSX profile checks to ensure ground services configurations are correct, manages launch sequencing to optimize simulator startup, and includes a shader cache cleanup feature to maintain graphical performance. These combined functions address common pre-flight setup challenges faced by MSFS users.
SimDesignsCo – Almirante Padilla Airport Intl MSFS24
SimDesignsCo releases Almirante Padilla Airport Intl MSFS24 for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, introducing a new Colombian airport destination. The product focuses on Riohacha, a city on Colombia’s northern coast, and is designed specifically for the latest version of the simulator. The scenery features detailed Caribbean coastal visuals, including sunlit shores and tropical color palettes that capture the local atmosphere. This airport adds a warm and vibrant arrival point for sim pilots exploring Colombia, expanding the geographic diversity within MSFS 2024.
HarExperience – London Luton Airport XP12
HarExperience releases London Luton Airport XP12, a detailed scenery add-on for X-Plane 12. The product focuses on replicating one of the United Kingdom’s busiest airports, situated north of London. This release targets users who want an accurate representation of Luton Airport’s diverse aviation environment. The scenery includes detailed terminals and captures the mix of commercial flights, executive aviation, and cargo operations typical of Luton. The developer emphasizes the constant airport activity to reflect the real-world atmosphere. Pricing and availability details are not specified in the announcement.
Review: KSLC Salt Lake City V2 from PacSim
Pacific Islands Simulation releases Salt Lake City International Airport version 2, developed specifically for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 and Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024. This updated version focuses on delivering a detailed rendition of KSLC, a key hub for classic airliner operations. The product is available through the developer's distribution channels. The update includes enhanced terminal buildings with accurate textures and improved night lighting that closely matches real-world conditions. The airport layout has been refined to reflect recent changes in taxiways and apron configurations, ensuring compatibility with current air traffic patterns. PacSim also addresses previous issues with ground service vehicles and adds custom jetways that align precisely with aircraft doors, improving ground handling realism.
Freeware: Laramie Regional Airport Released
Aerosoft releases Laramie Regional Airport as a freeware add-on for Microsoft Flight Simulator. The airport is located in southeastern Wyoming and is modeled at an elevation exceeding 7,200 feet. This release is available immediately for download from Aerosoft’s official channels. The scenery features detailed high plains terrain and accurately replicates the airport’s layout and facilities. The developer includes custom ground textures and precise elevation data to reflect the airport’s unique environment. This addition provides a new high-altitude regional airport for MSFS pilots to explore without cost.
OnAir Company Releases Player Handbook Volume I and Opens Companion Beta to All Users
OnAir Company releases the OnAir Player Handbook – Volume I alongside the public launch of the Companion Open Beta for its airline management platform. The handbook serves as a detailed reference guide for the platform's core systems and economic mechanics. The Companion Open Beta is now accessible to all users, expanding access beyond initial testers. The Player Handbook – Volume I provides in-depth explanations of OnAir's operational features, helping users understand the intricacies of airline management within the platform. The Companion Open Beta introduces a new interface for managing flights and schedules, aiming to streamline user interaction with the system. Both releases are available immediately, marking a significant step in enhancing user engagement and system transparency.
Bluesky Hangar is bringing the full Grumman AA-5 family to MSFS, all three variants
Bluesky Hangar announces the upcoming release of the full Grumman AA-5 family for Microsoft Flight Simulator, including all three variants: the original Traveler, the AA-5, and the Tiger. This package will be available exclusively for MSFS and aims to cover the entire AA-5 lineage in one product. The release features four interchangeable cockpit configurations, allowing users to switch between different instrument layouts and panel setups specific to each variant. This level of detail ensures that pilots can experience the subtle differences across the AA-5 models. Pricing and exact release dates have not been disclosed yet, but the comprehensive coverage of the AA-5 family fills a niche for fans of light general aviation aircraft in MSFS.
DFFlyer Direct – Frankfurt Landmarks MSFS24/20
DFFlyer Direct releases the Frankfurt Landmarks MSFS24/20 add-on for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 and 2020. This scenery pack focuses on the downtown Frankfurt-Niederrad area, providing over 200 handcrafted buildings to enhance the urban environment around Frankfurt Airport (EDDF). The add-on features enhanced textures and detailed night lighting to accurately represent the financial district of Germany's largest city. Users can explore the city from a helicopter after landing at Frankfurt Airport, allowing for aerial sightseeing of the meticulously modeled landmarks. This release adds significant visual depth to the Frankfurt area, complementing the airport's simulation with authentic cityscape elements.
A new bizjet for MSFS: Skyward’s Citation Sovereign+ is out now
Skyward releases the Citation Sovereign+ for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 and 2024. The model is based on the C680 Sovereign+ business jet and features a custom Garmin G5000 avionics suite. This product targets users of both MSFS 2020 and the newer 2024 version. The Citation Sovereign+ includes a heavily simulated electrical architecture that replicates real-world system behavior. The custom G5000 suite offers detailed flight management and navigation capabilities specific to the aircraft. The add-on is now available for purchase, providing a new high-fidelity bizjet option for MSFS pilots.
MK Studios Refines KFLL Fort Lauderdale with Subtle Real-World Detail in Update 1.0.1
MK Studios releases update 1.0.1 for its Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport scenery in Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024. The update focuses on refining gate operations, specifically at gate C8. This update is available for users of the Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 platform. The 1.0.1 update introduces a handcrafted adjustment to ground handling procedures at gate C8 to accurately represent real-world operations for turboprop aircraft like the ATR72. This subtle change improves the authenticity of aircraft servicing at the gate. The update demonstrates MK Studios' attention to detail in replicating specific airport procedures.
CSS 737-300 and 737-400 are days away from release
Classic Simulations Studio announces the imminent release of their 737-300 and 737-400 aircraft for Microsoft Flight Simulator. The developer confirms that Immersive Audio is the audio partner for these models, completing the Classic family lineup. These releases target users seeking detailed representations of the 737 Classic series within MSFS. The 737-300 and 737-400 feature audio systems developed in collaboration with Immersive Audio, promising accurate cockpit sounds and engine noises. Classic Simulations Studio emphasizes that these models finalize the Classic family, filling a gap in their product range. The release date is set just days away, signaling availability soon for pilots interested in flying the 737 Classic variants.
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Frankfurt’s “Mainhattan” skyline gets a new city pack for MSFS 2020 and 2024
DFFlyer releases a new city pack featuring Frankfurt's skyline for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 and 2024. The addon includes over 200 handcrafted buildings representing the financial capital of Germany. This marks DFFlyer's first major European cityscape after their focus on North American urban areas. The pack recreates Frankfurt's distinctive "Mainhattan" skyline with detailed skyscrapers, including the Commerzbank Tower and Messeturm. It integrates seamlessly into the default simulator environment without requiring additional third-party libraries. The addon is available now, expanding the urban scenery options for pilots flying in central Europe.
Adventure Pack FXP Released for X-Plane 12
Adventure Pack FXP is released for X-Plane 12 by an unspecified developer. This collection includes 18 distinct Adventures designed specifically for the X-Plane 12 simulator. The pack supports a wide range of aircraft types within the simulator, including general aviation planes, helicopters, airliners, fighter jets, and gliders. The Adventures feature dynamic generation, allowing missions to take place in various locations across the extensive X-Plane scenery world rather than being confined to a single airport or area. Additionally, the working areas within many Adventures change location with each start, even when the same airport is used, providing variability in each playthrough. This dynamic approach offers a fresh challenge every time, enhancing the replayability of the Adventures.
Deadstick Playtest First Impressions: A Bush Flight Sim With Huge Potential
REMEX Software announces Deadstick, a bush flight simulator initially showcased at FlightSim2017, designed to run on PC platforms. The simulator emphasizes bush flying with detailed aircraft systems, extensive customization options, and mission-based gameplay. Deadstick aims to fill a niche in the flight sim market by focusing on rugged, off-airport operations. The current playtest reveals a complex systems model that includes realistic engine management and environmental effects affecting flight performance. Players can customize their aircraft with various modifications that impact handling and mission capabilities. REMEX Software has not yet announced a release date or pricing, but the playtest demonstrates significant potential for a simulator centered on challenging bush flying scenarios.
New Bluesky Hangar Grumman AA5 for MSFS 2020/2024 coming soon
Bluesky Hangar announces the upcoming release of their Grumman AA5 for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 and 2024. The product targets users of both simulator versions, expanding the available general aviation aircraft lineup. No specific version number or release date has been provided at this time. The Grumman AA5 model is expected to feature detailed exterior and interior modeling consistent with Bluesky Hangar's previous releases. Pricing and availability details remain undisclosed, but the announcement signals an addition to the small aircraft options for MSFS pilots. This release will likely attract simmers interested in classic American light aircraft within the Microsoft Flight Simulator ecosystem.
The Best Free (and Paid) Tools for MSFS 2020 and 2024
The article presents a curated list of utilities compatible with Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 and 2024, highlighting both free and paid tools. It covers essential freeware such as SimBrief for flight planning, Little Navmap for navigation, AutoFPS for performance optimization, and VATSIM for online air traffic control. Paid products like GSX Pro, which enhances ground operations, and BeyondATC, an advanced ATC solution, are also featured. Each tool is evaluated based on its specific functionality within categories including flight planning, ATC, AI traffic, performance, ground operations, and add-on management. The article provides honest reviews detailing how SimBrief integrates real-world weather data into flight plans, Little Navmap offers comprehensive route editing and mapping, and GSX Pro automates pushback and boarding procedures. Pricing information is given for paid tools, with GSX Pro and BeyondATC positioned as premium options for users seeking deeper simulation depth.
Update 5: Jeppesen Worldwide Charts* Synthetic Vision and more!
RealSimGear releases Update 5 for their Jeppesen Worldwide Charts software, compatible with Microsoft Flight Simulator and Prepar3D. This update introduces Synthetic Vision integration, enhancing the charting interface with 3D terrain and obstacle visuals. The update is available immediately to all existing users at no additional cost. The Synthetic Vision feature overlays real-time 3D terrain data directly onto Jeppesen charts, improving situational awareness during flight planning and execution. Update 5 also includes various bug fixes related to chart rendering and performance stability. This release solidifies RealSimGear’s commitment to providing detailed navigation tools tailored for professional-grade flight simulation setups.
Synthetic Vision for the SR7x and SFx Simulators
Synthetic Vision has released an update for the SR7x and SFx simulators, integrating synthetic vision capabilities into both platforms. The update is developed by Synthetic Vision and is compatible with the SR7x and SFx flight simulation software. No version number is specified in the announcement. The update introduces synthetic vision features that enhance the visual representation of terrain and obstacles within the SR7x and SFx simulators. This addition aims to improve situational awareness by providing pilots with a clearer view of their environment during flight operations. Pricing and availability details were not disclosed in the announcement.
Thranda V35B Bonanza Now Available for X-Plane 12
Thranda Design releases the V35B Bonanza for X-Plane 12, adding the iconic Beechcraft single-engine piston aircraft to the simulator. This version specifically models the V35B variant, known for its low-wing design and retractable tricycle landing gear. The product targets users of Laminar Research’s X-Plane 12 platform, expanding the general aviation aircraft roster. The V35B Bonanza features detailed exterior and interior modeling that replicates the aircraft’s elegant styling and cockpit layout. The simulation includes accurate flight dynamics to reflect the Bonanza’s performance characteristics, such as its suitability for operations on both paved and unpaved runways. Pricing and availability details are not mentioned, but the release provides X-Plane 12 pilots with a versatile aircraft favored by private owners and flight instructors.