Microsoft has officially launched Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, marking a bold new chapter in the series’ storied history, which began over 40 years. Available in multiple editions, the next iteration of the simulator promises a more dynamic and comprehensive aviation experience, catering to both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
This release introduces an impressive range of features designed to redefine virtual aviation. Central to the experience is the new career mode, where you can build an aviation career by completing missions across a variety of disciplines. From aerial firefighting and medical transport to cargo operations and piloting commercial airliners, this mode invites you to earn certifications, gain reputation, and immerse yourself in a global aviation journey. The simulator also introduces the Challenge League, a competitive mode where pilots can test their skills in diverse activities, including rally races, precision landings, and low-altitude challenges. High-octane events like the Red Bull Air Races and Reno Air Races—now expanded with new courses—offer thrilling opportunities for head-to-head competition.
For those looking to explore the world in a different way, the new photography feature transforms the skies into a creative playground. Capture stunning landscapes, iconic landmarks, and unique weather phenomena as part of photo challenges that combine aviation and artistry.
Enhanced Simulation Technology
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 boasts a revamped physics engine, supporting over 10,000 rigid-body surfaces for more realistic aircraft behavior. New soft-body physics bring additional realism to objects like ropes, clothing, and balloons. Ground and water interactions have been further refined, enhancing the immersion for landings, takeoffs, and amphibious operations. The avionics and aircraft systems are more detailed than ever. Advanced electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and fuel systems are modeled with precision. Avionics such as the Universal UNS-1 FMS and Primus Epic 2 now offer deeper functionality, while pre-flight inspections and walkarounds add to the authenticity.
A new flight planner integrates IFR and VFR layers, fuel management, vertical profile planning, and ETOPS support. Available natively within the simulator and on mobile or web platforms, it offers a seamless planning experience for flights of all complexities.
"A World More Alive than Ever"
Microsoft has made significant strides in environmental realism. A "detailed digital twin" of Earth includes over 500 photogrammetric cities, 150 hand-crafted airports, and thousands of landmarks. Dynamic features such as seasonally influenced vegetation, new cloud types, and phenomena like auroras elevate the atmospheric experience. For the first time, players can leave their aircraft to explore 27 high-detail biomes, each teeming with dynamic elements such as diverse wildlife, regional flora, and weather effects. Oceans and waterways are bustling with marine life and global maritime traffic, adding to the sense of a living world. Airports and passenger cabins also feel more vibrant, with detailed depictions of human activity and enhanced real-world air traffic.
Multiple Editions Available
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 is available in four editions, catering to different levels of engagement:
- Standard Edition: Includes 65+ aircraft and 150 handcrafted airports (€69.99).
- Deluxe Edition: Adds 10 aircraft and 5 airports (€99.99).
- Premium Deluxe Edition: Includes an additional 25 aircraft and 10 airports (€129.99).
- Aviator Edition: Offers the most comprehensive package, including 30 marketplace aircraft developed between 2021 and 2024 (€199.99).
The simulator is available for digital purchase via the Microsoft Store, Steam, and the Xbox Store. Subscribers to the PC Game Pass can access the Standard Edition at no extra cost.
Installation - Multiple Users report Issues, Frustrated Reviews on Steam
Microsoft has reduced the installation size to approximately 30 GB, a significant improvement over its predecessor’s 130+ GB. Though, many users have reported difficulties during the installation process for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, with downloads becoming stuck at random percentages, such as 11%, or the simulator failing to boot altogether. On platforms like Steam, frustrated reviews highlight these issues, which is likely to the overwhelming number of users attempting to download and install simultaneously. Microsoft has acknowledged the problem and is actively working on a solution. In the meantime, they advise that installation times exceeding 60 minutes are not unusual and urge users to remain patient as servers stabilize.
We are aware of user reports of long initial loading times into Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024.
— MSFS Support (@MSFS_Support) November 19, 2024
With so many users initializing the sim concurrently, we have a large number of server requests. We are working to help resolve the issues as soon as possible.
For users whose…
Flightsim.to Prepares for the Transition to Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024
Many in the community are understandably curious about how the transition will affect addons, mods, and liveries created for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020. At Flightsim.to, we share this anticipation and are committed to keeping you informed and supported throughout this change. While Microsoft has suggested a degree of cross-compatibility between the two simulators, specific details remain uncertain, particularly regarding how unupdated addons will perform or whether some might become incompatible. Like the broader flight simulation community, we will gain clarity only after the release of Microsoft Flight Simulator. In preparation, we’ve implemented a series of steps to ease the transition for both creators and users. Creators can now set compatibility preferences for their addons, marking them as usable with MSFS2020 only, MSFS2024 only, or compatible with both simulators. This feature allows creators to upload versions tailored to each platform, ensuring users can select the most suitable files for their setup. Addon compatibility is displayed prominently, and we plan to expand this with new indicators and filters post-release.
Looking ahead, we’re ready to adapt. Once the new simulator launches, we’ll gather insights from the community about how addons are affected. Based on these findings, we may introduce further refinements, such as dedicated MSFS2024 sections or advanced browsing options to streamline the experience. Your feedback will be vital during this period, and we encourage you to share your thoughts via our dedicated feedback form.
As always, we appreciate your patience and collaboration. Together, we aim to ensure Flightsim.to remains a reliable resource for both MSFS2020 and MSFS2024, helping creators and users alike enjoy a seamless transition into this exciting new era of flight simulation.