Learn whether an official Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 manual exists, where its built-in guidance lives, and which printable references fill the gaps.
Microsoft did not release one comprehensive, universally supplied PDF manual for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020. Official instructions are split between the in-game Flight Training lessons, aircraft checklists, Controls Options and support material. For a manual-style reference, use a structured community guide alongside those built-in tools.
Where are the official MSFS 2020 instructions?
The most useful official instructions are inside Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 rather than collected in one downloadable book.
- Flight Training: Select Flight Training from the main menu for guided lessons covering basic aircraft control, take-off, circuits, navigation and landing.
- Aircraft checklists: After loading a flight, open the Checklist panel from the top toolbar. Coverage varies by aircraft; some checklists provide a detailed sequence, while others cover only essential phases.
- Controls Options: This is the authoritative reference for the commands assigned to your keyboard, controller, joystick, throttle or yoke. Select the correct device and active control profile before searching.
- Assistance Options: These settings provide piloting aids rather than written instruction, but they can simplify procedures while learning.
A common mistake is expecting Flight Training to explain every cockpit system. It teaches core flying skills, while individual avionics, autopilots and engine procedures need separate guidance.
What is the best alternative to an MSFS 2020 manual?
The closest practical replacement is a broad simulator guide supported by focused references for controls and aircraft procedures.
Start with our broader MSFS 2020 guide to installation, settings and flying. Keep the printable keyboard-command reference nearby, then use our structured Flight School lessons and walkthroughs when you need help with navigation, approaches or cockpit operation.
The keyboard reference is mainly useful for PC keyboard input. Xbox controller users, and PC users with customised hardware, should treat the assignments shown under Controls Options as the final authority.
Can I download an official MSFS 2020 PDF manual?
No definitive official PDF covers the entire simulator, every control, all default aircraft and their avionics. Some boxed releases may include printed installation or reference material, but this is not a universal operations manual and is not normally supplied with digital installations.
Check the scope of any document described as an MSFS 2020 manual. It may be an unofficial beginner guide, an aircraft-specific handbook or material written for the simulator's launch configuration. Aircraft systems and default avionics have changed through updates, so older screenshots and button sequences may no longer match.
Why do manual controls sometimes differ from the simulator?
Control guides disagree with the simulator when a different device, preset or custom profile is active. To find the real assignment in MSFS 2020:
- Select the correct device at the top of Controls Options.
- Check the active profile, especially if you previously created or imported a custom layout.
- Set the command filter to All so unassigned commands are not hidden.
- Search by command or input to identify both the function and the button already bound to it.
- Save changes to a custom profile rather than assuming a printed default still applies.
Do individual aircraft need separate manuals?
Yes. Complex aircraft and add-ons often require their own operating documentation because speeds, startup flows, avionics and autopilot behaviour are model-specific. The in-simulator checklist is useful, but it may not explain why a switch is used or how one system interacts with another.
For default aircraft, our step-by-step cold-and-dark starting guide fills one of the largest gaps left by the built-in lessons. Avoid applying one aircraft's checklist or performance figures to another, even when their cockpits appear similar.