Learn what DCS Flaming Cliffs is, see all 11 aircraft in Flaming Cliffs 2024, and understand how it differs from FC3 and full-fidelity modules.
DCS Flaming Cliffs is a DCS World aircraft pack built around simplified, command-driven avionics and non-clickable cockpits while retaining detailed flight and combat modelling. Flaming Cliffs 2024 includes 11 flyable aircraft: eight inherited from Flaming Cliffs 3 and three simplified versions of classic jet modules.
It is an add-on for DCS World, not a separate simulator. The aircraft are intended for pilots who want credible combat flying without learning every cockpit switch, circuit breaker and start-up procedure.
Which aircraft are included in Flaming Cliffs 2024?
Flaming Cliffs 2024 contains the following 11 aircraft:
| Aircraft | Primary role | Flaming Cliffs group |
|---|---|---|
| A-10A | Close air support and ground attack | Flaming Cliffs 3 roster |
| F-15C | Air-superiority fighter | Flaming Cliffs 3 roster |
| Su-25 | Ground-attack aircraft | Flaming Cliffs 3 roster |
| Su-27 | Air-superiority fighter | Flaming Cliffs 3 roster |
| Su-33 | Carrier-capable fighter | Flaming Cliffs 3 roster |
| MiG-29A | Front-line fighter | Flaming Cliffs 3 roster |
| MiG-29S | Improved fighter with expanded weapon capability | Flaming Cliffs 3 roster |
| J-11A | Chinese Su-27-derived fighter | Flaming Cliffs 3 roster |
| F-5E FC | Lightweight fighter and ground attack | Added with Flaming Cliffs 2024 |
| F-86F FC | Day fighter and light attack | Added with Flaming Cliffs 2024 |
| MiG-15bis FC | Day fighter and interceptor | Added with Flaming Cliffs 2024 |
Older Flaming Cliffs manuals and missions may also mention the MiG-29G. Treat it as a closely related German MiG-29A variant rather than an additional aircraft in the advertised 11-aircraft Flaming Cliffs 2024 roster.
Another common mix-up concerns the Su-25. Flaming Cliffs includes the original Su-25, while the free DCS World base installation supplies the more specialised Su-25T. They have different capabilities and separate control profiles.
Is Flaming Cliffs 2024 the same as Flaming Cliffs 3?
Flaming Cliffs 2024 expands the older Flaming Cliffs 3 package rather than simply renaming it.
| Package | Aircraft | Main distinction |
|---|---|---|
| Flaming Cliffs 3 | Eight listed aircraft | The A-10A, F-15C, Su-25, Su-27, Su-33, MiG-29A, MiG-29S and J-11A roster |
| Flaming Cliffs 2024 | Eleven aircraft | The Flaming Cliffs 3 roster plus the F-5E FC, F-86F FC and MiG-15bis FC |
This distinction matters when following an old buying guide or checking why an aircraft is absent from the DCS Module Manager. An FC3 entitlement should not be mistaken for the expanded Flaming Cliffs 2024 package.
Are Flaming Cliffs cockpits clickable?
Flaming Cliffs cockpits are generally non-clickable, so their switches and controls are operated through assigned commands rather than by clicking them with the mouse.
- Start-up is condensed: you use an automated start command instead of completing a full electrical, fuel and engine-start sequence.
- Avionics are simplified: radar modes, navigation functions and weapon selections are controlled through direct bindings.
- Flight remains demanding: energy management, trimming, landing technique, sensor use and weapon employment still require practice.
- Controls are aircraft-specific: a binding created for the F-15C is not guaranteed to carry across to the Su-27 or F-5E FC.
The FC suffix is significant. The F-5E FC, F-86F FC and MiG-15bis FC are simplified aircraft entries, not merely an easy avionics setting applied to their full-fidelity counterparts. Our breakdown of simplified and full-fidelity DCS modules explains the wider module differences.
Is DCS Flaming Cliffs good for beginners?
Flaming Cliffs is a strong beginner choice when the goal is to reach combat quickly without spending hours on cockpit switch procedures.
- Choose the F-15C for radar-guided air combat and a Western-style presentation.
- Choose the A-10A or Su-25 to concentrate on ground attack.
- Choose the F-5E FC, F-86F FC or MiG-15bis FC for more visual, close-range combat with fewer advanced sensors.
- Leave the Su-33 until you are ready to add carrier operations to the workload.
Simplified does not mean effortless: radar interpretation and weapon parameters still catch out new pilots. We cover the trade-offs in more detail in our recommendations for a first DCS aircraft.
Why is a Flaming Cliffs aircraft missing or not responding?
A missing aircraft or unresponsive control is usually caused by selecting the wrong variant, owning the older package, or configuring the wrong aircraft profile.
- Confirm the package: check whether DCS recognises Flaming Cliffs 3 or Flaming Cliffs 2024 and whether the relevant aircraft is authorised.
- Select the exact variant: distinguish the Su-25 from the Su-25T and an FC-labelled aircraft from its full-fidelity counterpart.
- Bind each aircraft separately: assign pitch, roll, rudder, throttle, trim, weapon release, sensor modes and view controls in the profile for the aircraft you will actually fly.
- Keep command references available: FC aircraft rely heavily on bindings, so putting control reminders on the DCS kneeboard is particularly useful while learning them.