Use FSX shared cockpit for captain and co-pilot flying. Learn the setup, control handover, edition limits, add-on syncing and common fixes.
Yes. FSX and FSX: Steam Edition include a shared-cockpit multiplayer mode that lets two people occupy one aircraft as captain and co-pilot. Each person needs a separate computer and compatible copy of the simulator; one player shares the aircraft in a multiplayer session, then the second player joins that cockpit.
This is a networked multiplayer feature, not split-screen play. Each participant needs their own installation and licence, and the two simulator editions cannot normally share the same native multiplayer session.
What do you need for an FSX shared cockpit?
Both pilots need matching editions, compatible simulator updates and the same aircraft installed. Starting with one of the stock FSX aircraft is the quickest way to prove that the connection works before introducing add-ons.
| Combination | Connection method | Main requirement |
|---|---|---|
| FSX: Steam Edition with Steam Edition | Steam multiplayer lobby and invitations | Both players use Steam Edition and compatible builds |
| Boxed FSX with boxed FSX | Local-network multiplayer remains usable; its original Internet lobby depended on the discontinued GameSpy service | Use the same service-pack or Acceleration level where possible |
| Steam Edition with boxed FSX | No native shared session | Move both players to the same edition |
Our explanation of the multiplayer differences between Steam Edition and boxed FSX will help if you are unsure which connection method applies. We also cover the broader FSX multiplayer session requirements, including separate computers and matching versions.
How do you set up captain and co-pilot mode in FSX?
- Match the simulators. Confirm that both players use either FSX: Steam Edition or boxed FSX, with compatible updates.
- Choose the same aircraft. Install the identical aircraft, panel, livery and add-on version on both computers. For the first attempt, use a stock aircraft at a default airport.
- Create the multiplayer session. The host must allow shared aircraft when configuring the session. The host does not necessarily have to be the captain.
- Share the aircraft. The first pilot selects the aircraft and marks it as available for sharing before entering the flight.
- Join as co-pilot. The second player selects the available shared aircraft or co-pilot position from the session lobby rather than spawning a separate aeroplane.
- Test control transfer. While parked, use FSX's Transfer/accept control command—normally
Shift+T—and follow the request or acceptance prompt. - Check the cockpit. Test the throttle, flight controls, radios, autopilot and a few essential switches before departure. This exposes synchronisation problems while the aircraft is still safely on the ground.
If the key has been reassigned, consult our FSX keyboard and multiplayer control reference.
Can both pilots control the aircraft at once?
No: FSX gives primary flight-control authority to one pilot at a time. The captain and co-pilot transfer that authority between them rather than applying simultaneous control inputs as they would in a real dual-control cockpit.
The pilot without control can still handle duties such as radios, navigation settings and some cockpit switches, but only items that the aircraft and its gauges synchronise correctly. Before handing over, align both sets of physical throttles and other axes with the simulated positions; otherwise, the controls may jump when the receiving pilot's hardware becomes active.
Do add-on aircraft work in FSX shared cockpit?
Simple add-on aircraft often work, but complex panels are not guaranteed to synchronise. Custom gauges, flight-management computers, autopilot logic and systems running through external modules may maintain separate states on each computer even while the aircraft position and basic controls remain connected.
Use exactly the same add-on release and configuration on both machines. If switches, displays or automation disagree, repeat the flight with a stock aircraft. A successful stock-aircraft test points to an add-on compatibility limitation rather than a multiplayer fault.
Why is the shared cockpit option not working?
- No shared aircraft appears: check that the session permits sharing and that the first pilot explicitly shared the aircraft. Returning both players to the lobby or recreating the session often clears a stale slot.
- The session is not visible: verify that both users have the same FSX edition. For boxed FSX, remember that the original GameSpy Internet browser is no longer available; for Steam Edition, check session visibility, invitations and firewall permission.
- The wrong aircraft loads: the second computer probably lacks the exact model or variation. Install matching files or switch both pilots to a stock aircraft.
- Control cannot be transferred: confirm the Transfer/accept control assignment on both systems and make sure the receiving pilot accepts the request.
- The cockpit states disagree: disable complex add-on systems for the test. If the stock panel stays synchronised, the custom gauges are the source of the mismatch.
- The aircraft jumps during handover: calibrate both controllers and match throttle, propeller, mixture and flight-control positions before transferring authority.
For the most reliable result, establish a working shared cockpit with a stock aircraft first, test control transfer on the ground, and only then add complex aircraft, scenery or other multiplayer variables.