Clear the Microsoft Flight Simulator flight log safely: learn why single entries cannot be removed, how cloud sync works and what a full reset erases.
Microsoft Flight Simulator has no in-game command to delete individual logbook entries or reset only the flight log. In both MSFS 2020 and MSFS 2024, it is tied to profile and cloud data. Clearing it requires deleting the cloud-backed profile; reinstalling or emptying Community will not clear it.
Can I delete one MSFS logbook entry?
No—Microsoft Flight Simulator does not provide row-level editing or deletion in its built-in logbook. An incorrect flight, inflated duration or unwanted test flight cannot be removed without resetting the wider profile.
Before wiping anything, check how MSFS records and displays flight history. Missing arrivals, duplicate-looking records and unusual times can result from the way flights end or synchronise rather than a damaged save.
A mistake we see constantly is trying to edit local save databases manually. Cloud synchronisation may restore the entry, while an incorrect edit can damage the complete profile.
What will clearing the MSFS logbook erase?
A true logbook reset is effectively a full profile reset, so expect more than flight history to be affected.
| Method | Likely result | When to choose it |
|---|---|---|
| Reinstall MSFS or delete caches | The cloud logbook returns unchanged | Never use this solely to clear flight history |
| Delete only the local save | The old cloud copy usually downloads again | Useful only for diagnosing a damaged local save |
| Delete the cloud-backed profile | A blank logbook if every synchronised copy is removed; settings and progress are also at risk | Only when a completely fresh profile is acceptable |
| Use a separate account where permitted | A blank log without destroying the original profile | Testing or recording new flights separately |
Control presets, assistance choices, profile statistics and activity progress may be lost. MSFS 2024 Career data can also be account- or server-linked, and resetting Career should not be assumed to clear the global logbook. Marketplace purchases and platform achievements normally remain attached to the account, but they are not a backup for profile data.
If settings are the actual problem, use a targeted MSFS settings reset instead of destroying the flight log and activity progress.
How do I perform a full profile reset?
The safest procedure is to remove both the local and cloud copies only after accepting that the reset is destructive and may be irreversible.
- Identify the exact edition. Confirm whether you have MSFS 2020 or MSFS 2024 and whether it came from the Microsoft Store/Xbox app, Steam, Xbox or PlayStation. Cloud-save controls and identifiers are not interchangeable between releases.
- Record anything you need. Take screenshots of controller bindings, sensitivity settings, assistance options and other personalised choices. Close the simulator completely afterwards.
- Remove the cloud-backed save.
- Xbox Series X|S: open the console's saved-data management for Microsoft Flight Simulator, select your gamertag and choose Delete everywhere. Choosing only Delete from console allows the cloud copy to return.
- Microsoft Store or Xbox app on PC: use the cloud-save deletion procedure for your exact MSFS release. Do not assume Windows' app Reset button removes the online copy, and do not reuse package commands written for the other simulator generation.
- Steam on PC: if save synchronisation is enabled, manage it before removing the correct title's saved-data record. Do not delete a numbered Steam userdata folder copied from an MSFS 2020 guide when resetting MSFS 2024.
- PlayStation 5 or PS5 Pro: this applies only to MSFS 2024. Remove the console and cloud saved data, then check whether the linked Microsoft profile restores server-held information.
- Start the simulator carefully. If a synchronisation conflict appears, retain the new empty save rather than the older cloud copy. Check the account name, date and save size before confirming.
- Verify the logbook first. Confirm that flight history is blank before rebuilding control profiles or starting new activities.
Do not delete the Community or official package folders for this purpose. They contain add-ons and simulator content, not the cloud-backed flight log, and removing them can trigger unnecessary downloads.
Why does the old flight log return after a reset?
The old logbook returns because at least one synchronised or server-held copy survived and overwrote the empty local profile.
- Only local saved data was deleted while the cloud copy remained.
- Cloud synchronisation was re-enabled before the empty profile had been established.
- The wrong simulator release, store installation or user account was reset.
- MSFS 2024 restored information held against the linked online profile rather than the console or PC save.
Repeated reinstallations will not fix that conflict. If a complete profile wipe is unacceptable, retain the existing logbook or use a separate account where the platform permits it; settings, Career progress and Marketplace ownership may not transfer to that account.