Microsoft Flight Simulator
Microsoft Flight Simulator or MSFS as it's been abbreviated as is Microsoft's latest flight simulator release which was released (officially on 18th August 2020) after an extended hiatus by Microsoft and various ownership changes over the years. It's also known as "FS2020" due to its release in 2020 - however, this is not the official abbreviation for it - it's only known as that by long-term flight sim enthusiasts.
Here we cover the latest important news regarding MSFS. We don't cover everything, we only cover important updates and news. We also do not feature verbatim press releases - if we do cover a press release then we write all of the content ourselves and provide our thoughts and discussion regarding the release.
MSFS is a next-gen flight sim that simmers have been dreaming about for years. Stay up to date on this latest simulator by visiting the news sections here. Stay up to date with the latest freeware MSFS releases, payware releases, and features and articles.
Posted on Sun, 17 Dec 2023 20:40:50 GMT (8296 reads)
In the constantly evolving world of flight simulation, GSX Pro has emerged as a game-changer, especially with its latest updates for Microsoft Flight Simulator (MSFS). This article delves into the recent enhancements that GSX Pro has introduced, focusing on their impact on cargo operations and overall user experience.
Posted on Sat, 16 Dec 2023 22:47:00 GMT (5831 reads)
Delving into the latest advancements in flight simulation, this article spotlights PMDG's recent updates to the Boeing 737 and offers a tantalizing preview of the Boeing 777 within the Microsoft Flight Simulator (MSFS) environment. From refined technical details to anticipated future developments, join us as we explore how PMDG continues to push the boundaries of realism and functionality in the world of flight simulation.
Posted on Fri, 16 Jun 2023 23:32:02 GMT (53507 reads)
In the dynamic world of flight simulation, few announcements have been as exciting, or as unexpected, as the unveiling of Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024. Beyond being a mere upgrade or expansion of the 2020 edition, this is a brand-new addition to the long-respected Microsoft Flight Simulator series. It promises to leverage cutting-edge technologies, such as advanced machine learning and graphics, to bring us the most immersive and sophisticated flight simulation experience ever.
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Microsoft Flight Simulator X
The most advanced and highly detailed flight simulator for the PC; Microsoft Flight Simulator X. Flight Simulator X or as it's know in the community FSX is the latest flight simulator developer by Microsoft and is currently the last flight simulator being produced by Microsoft and the ACES studio. The ACES team were cut from Microsoft's budget leaving no development team to work on the next flight simulator release. It's possible that Microsoft will sell the Flight Simulator franchise to an external company for them to develop a new release, however nothing has been confirmed. This topic features news related to the latest add-ons, software and downloads for FSX.
Posted on Thu, 28 Mar 2019 19:52:38 GMT (100448 reads)
Realism, attention to detail, and absolute authenticity are at the heart of any top-notch flight simulation experience. Whether it is how authentic the planes themselves look, or the attention to detail on the many famous airports that are themselves household names around the world, it is arguable that the real journey of flight simulation begins once one begins to explore the abundance of extra choices available.
Posted on Mon, 24 Dec 2018 16:38:52 GMT (93156 reads)
Part of what makes virtual flight joyful is the reality and authenticity of the scenery and surroundings. Whether it is the hustle and bustle of the busy metropolis-type cities below, or the wide-open plains of the countryside or mountain regions, after the flight and authenticity of the aircraft itself, it is important to make the “outside”, the scenery, equally authentic so as to achieve as realistic a flight as possible.
Posted on Fri, 26 Jan 2018 18:39:01 GMT (397185 reads)
Every year, the simulation community manages to create new and improved aircraft and scenery for many locations around the virtual globe. From top quality designs that perfectly portrays some of the most important airports in the world, to lesser-known aircraft that you may never have heard of, many mods exist.
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X-Plane
X-Plane is one of the most advanced and sophisticated flight simulator packages available. They have released versions for PC, Mac and Linux and now even iPhone. X-Plane provides the end user with a sophisticated flight environment with ultra realistic flight dynamics. While X-Plane isn't the most popular flight simulator, it is growing its user base because of the demise of Microsoft Flight Simulator. X-Plane is destined to become the next biggest flight simulator package for a mix of platforms.
Posted on Sat, 16 Dec 2023 22:21:34 GMT (6139 reads)
Welcome to the latest chapter in the saga of X-Plane, the venerable and ever-evolving flight simulator. With the release of version 12.07 and the anticipation of upcoming versions 12.0.8 and 12.1.0, X-Plane continues to set the benchmark for realism and technological innovation in the world of flight simulation. These versions bring a plethora of enhancements, ranging from refined VRAM usage and more authentic cloud rendering to substantial improvements in flight modeling and graphical fidelity.
Posted on Mon, 09 Sep 2019 14:23:20 GMT (132635 reads)
X-Plane is one of the most popular virtual flight programs. And, most often than not, offers some of the most authentic virtual flight experiences on the market. Part of that experience is the scenery, and how real or authentic it looks. With this in mind, we will examine some of the best freeware photorealistic scenery (ortho) add-ons currently available.
Posted on Wed, 03 Apr 2019 19:16:40 GMT (37338 reads)
Perhaps before we attempt to answer the above question, we should point out that whatever Flight Simulation program you opt for – and many simulation pilots have both – each are sound platforms from which to tour the virtual skies. And each has its pros and cons.
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Prepar3D
Posted on Wed, 05 Jul 2023 20:36:38 GMT (22438 reads)
In the evolving world of flight simulation, Lockheed Martin has once again stepped up its game with the release of Prepar3D v6. This next-generation simulator incorporates a host of groundbreaking features, enhancing every aspect of the virtual flight experience. From realistic lighting and atmospheric models to improved airports and an optimized update process, Prepar3D v6 has redefined the standards of visual simulation platforms. In this article, we delve deep into the details of the new release, its compatibility with add-ons, its comparison with Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020, and much more.
Posted on Tue, 23 May 2023 23:12:08 GMT (11553 reads)
Revving up the engines for flight simulation enthusiasts, Lockheed Martin has unveiled the latest iteration of its benchmark software, Prepar3D v5.4 (5.4.9.28482). Fusing dynamic improvements and bug fixes, this release promises an even more immersive and robust virtual piloting experience.
Posted on Thu, 23 Jul 2020 22:17:26 GMT (36131 reads)
You could perhaps be forgiven for missing the release of Prepar3D v5 given it was released right in the middle of the coronavirus pandemic and with around a week’s notice to the general public. On the other hand, those who did grab the latest release from the Lockheed Martin team have perhaps used a portion of the lockdown to hone their flight simulation skills all the more.
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Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004
Flight Simulator 2004 was the flight simulator that changed it all for Microsoft. This product was the best selling flight simulator on the market and produced record sales. With many advanced features and improvements in the weather engine and graphics; aircraft and downloads being produced by freeware developers, this was one of the most customizable flight simulators for Windows. Some fans still think that this is a better simulator than later releases by Microsoft. While slowing down, FS2004 is still a very active topic.
Posted on Sat, 08 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT (29413 reads)
If you want an advanced tool for planning your flights in Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004, you can’t look past Virtual Dispatch.
Posted on Sat, 04 Feb 2012 09:00:00 GMT (18197 reads)
Carenado announced its release of PA32R 301 Saratoga SP for FS2004 in February 2010.
Over the past few years, Carenado has created many products for FSX and FS2004. Their latest release, Piper PA32R 301 Saratoga, offers a high performance single engine aircraft with a trendy design. Carenado previously released an FSX version of the same add-on.
Posted on Sun, 29 Jan 2012 16:48:59 GMT (22231 reads)
Commercial Level Simulations (CLS) announced on 1 February 2010 its release of Boeing 767-200 and -300, a dedicated model for FS2004.
After one and a half years of unwavering commitment and hard work, CLS released this high quality and highly detailed package which they designed with one goal in mind – to ensure that it enhances simulation experiences for all flight simulation enthusiasts.
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Software Reviews
Reviews of flight simulator software and add-ons from the review team here at Fly Away. We review many payware aircraft, scenery and enhancement products. Reviews are highly detailed with honest opinions and high quality screenshots. Some of our reviews include 737 Pilot in Command, PMDG 747, PMDG MD-11 and many more.
Posted on Wed, 13 Jun 2018 18:10:01 GMT (17316 reads)
The VC10 is an important part of aviation history, playing an important role in the Royal Air Force for quite some time. First taking to the skies in 1962, it was built by Vickers-Armstrong until 1970. That 8-year span, though, produced a memorable aircraft that was still being used by the RAF some time in 2013.
Posted on Sun, 01 Apr 2018 15:04:38 GMT (14621 reads)
As one of a large number of Alabeo released for FSX and P3D, the M20R Ovation, released in September, adds to a growing collection. As part of the Mooney Aircraft Company, the M20 was a very impressive model for its time. This review will take a closer look at the M20R Ovation created by Alabeo, to help you determine if it’s worth trying out.
Posted on Sat, 06 Jan 2018 17:06:18 GMT (21392 reads)
As a wider part of some of the bigger Aerosoft releases in recent times, the new Aerosoft release covering the Canadair Regional Jet (CRJ) 700 and 900 aircraft is a special one. Developed by the Bombardier firm, this aircraft group has been among the most popular of its kind. However, they’ve never been properly translated into a simulation environment in as much detail as this.
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Payware Flight Sim Products
This topic covers all the latest payware add-on releases for all of the flight simulators featured on this website. The payware releases are delivered from our on-line flight sim store SimShack.net. SimShack.net are stockists of hundreds of payware flight sim add-ons for purchase. They deliver physical media (CD versions) and have now started stocking digital downloads for immediate delivery to your desktop with no wait. There are many payware add-ons for FSX, FS2004 and X-Plane.
Posted on Fri, 15 Apr 2011 12:38:10 GMT (31757 reads)
The CLS Piper Arrow for Microsoft Flight Simulator X and 2004 has now been released as freeware and is available on the SimShack.net flight sim store. There is no charge to purchase, download or install this previously payware aircraft add-on for Microsoft's Flight Simulator package. Before it was released as freeware, CLS sold this product as payware - but because it has become somewhat dates and the quality isn't as good as their latest payware products, they have released it to the public for free.
Posted on Sat, 11 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT (28089 reads)
The TSS Cessna 172 Sound Pack is very cool add-on. This particular one is Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004 compatible. It is a fairly small download with a filesize of 20MB. Individuals will find that they will be able to access this add-on, immediately after purchasing it. The soundpack for the Cessna 172 has been created by Turbine Sound Studios.
Posted on Fri, 10 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT (25756 reads)
The Mega Airport Munich Scenery Add-on is compatible with Microsoft Flight Simulator X and Flight Simulator 2004. This is another affordable simulator add-on designed by Aerosoft, a respected name in the flight simulator industry. It can be purchased in CD-ROM media format.
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Other flight sim related news
Flight simulator news that does not belong to a specific topic can be found here, or news that spans multiple topics. For example, an add-on for FSX and FS2004 will be included in this category. This topic also features other flight sim related news such as community updates, competitions and payware developer press releases.
Posted on Sat, 21 Oct 2017 02:00:00 GMT (17120 reads)
Having been promised to see updates since release, the latest changes to iFMS 2 have arrived. In the 2.1 update, some minor changes were made to help further tweak and improve how the add-on works.
Posted on Tue, 17 Oct 2017 17:00:00 GMT (16727 reads)
In a bid to keep improving and changing flight simulation, development team Azure Computing has a new mobile sim app available. SimControl is a multi-purpose solution that makes creating training scenarios that are worthwhile easier than ever before. Android users, sadly, will need to wait; at present, this is only available on the Apple Store for iPad devices. This is a must-have for those who are looking to manage flight simulation controls and organization more than ever.
Posted on Mon, 24 Jul 2017 12:19:46 GMT (15047 reads)
Do you use the browser-based Air Traffic Control simulator, ATC-SIM? If so, it’s just been given a major update. By helping to add a touch of extra depth to the simulation experience, ATC-SIM has seen some pretty big improvements.
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Editorial
Our editorial section is one of our most interesting. Editors write about their opinions regarding flight simulators and add-ons, however we have several writers who write about real-life aviation and their flying experiences. Most of the editorials are opinion based, you should read them through and make your own mind up about the content.
Posted on Thu, 24 Oct 2019 22:35:18 GMT (24589 reads)
Given the early access releases of Aerofly FS 2, it might be tempting to dismiss the program and move on to other more established flight sim programs. However, the fact is, once you do give it a try you will very likely find yourself begrudgingly liking what is unfolding before you.
And while there are still ways to go in terms of high-resolution add-ons and scenery (which will surely come with time) the initial feeling is one of positivity, even if there is a longing for more quantity of such scenery and airports.
Posted on Thu, 18 Jul 2019 11:53:27 GMT (75954 reads)
Microsoft Flight was a flight simulator package released in 2012 and developed by Microsoft as an attempt at a new PC based simulation package to continue their Flight Simulator series. It wasn't based on old FSX code; it was a completely new engine built for modern 64-bit machines.
Posted on Tue, 25 Jun 2019 14:32:01 GMT (50413 reads)
Flight Sim World or FSW as it became know as was the latest flight simulator package released by Dovetail Games. Flight Sim World's core was based on existing FSX code but it had been brought up to date with heavy modification and rewriting (and of course many new features and functions).
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Train Simulator
From time to time we feature news related to train simulation. This is a flight simulator website that focuses heavily on simulated flight, however many of our users are train sim enthusiasts too. One of the popular train simulator packages we cover is Microsoft Train Simulator (which has now been discontinued), Trainz and RailWorks. Included are press releases, industry updates and payware product releases.
Posted on Sun, 18 Jan 2009 04:24:13 GMT (43692 reads)
Microsoft Game Studios has announced Train Simulator 2, the sequel to Microsoft's realistic railroading simulation from 2001, Train Simulator. The new game adds five new highly detailed routes and will let players control a variety of trains, from 200-ton modern diesel locomotives to historical steam engines. The new routes will let players turn back the clock and control trains on the Pennsylvania Railroad's Horseshoe Curve in 1946 or go for high-speed runs through Germany on the Deutsche Bahn AG. Train Simulator 2 also adds dynamic weather and richer environments filled with people, vehicles, and roaming animals.
Posted on Mon, 21 Jun 2004 01:44:14 GMT (31861 reads)
The real world Rheilffordd Ffestiniog Railway in Wales, the oldest independent railway company in the world, has an extensive collection of MSTS wagons available for download from their web site as well as an early alpha version of their actual route.
Posted on Sun, 11 Jan 2004 19:15:56 GMT (827619 reads)
We have now opened our MSTS, Microsoft Train Simulator download sections. These sections include quality addons and downloads for Train Simulator. We have locomotives to download, carriages; all for download for MSTS. Our library will be updated often, in order to deliver to you the very best Train Simulator experience.
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Aviation News
Aviation news from the editors at Fly Away Simulation. Featuring the latest aviation and aerospace updates and press releases. We feature content about the latest airplane news and any topics related to real world aircraft, not flight simulation. International airports and general airport news are also included here.
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Other news topics
Below are the categories that have been archived because they are for older or obsolete simulators or don't fit into the sections above.
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