https://www.flightsim.news/ Powered by flightsim.news https://www.flightsim.news/646/pilots-shows-wips-of-upcoming-dhc-7-v2-for-msfs-2024
Today, the Austrian publisher of flight simulation add-ons, PILOTS, released some work-in-progress screenshots of its upcoming DHC-7 v2 for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024. No further details regarding a target release date are available yet, and the company is not communicating anything in that regard at all, according to the preview post here on Facebook. All that remains is to take pleasure in the fact that at least the preview screenshots shown give the impression that development is already quite advanced.]]> Previews https://www.flightsim.news/646/pilots-shows-wips-of-upcoming-dhc-7-v2-for-msfs-2024 Wed, 08 Apr 2026 17:42:08 +0000 235 Sascha 0 https://www.flightsim.news/644/30%25-at-carenado-spring-sale
Carenado, the aircraft development team for Microsoft Flight Simulator, has launched a spring sale. Through April 15, there is a 30% discount on aircraft for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 and 2020. The discount is available at carenado.com.]]> General https://www.flightsim.news/644/30%25-at-carenado-spring-sale Thu, 02 Apr 2026 21:48:53 +0000 289 Sascha 0 https://www.flightsim.news/643/verticalsim-announces-john-wayne-airport-ksna-for-fs2024
Today, Verticalsim have announced that they are working on the John Wayne International Airport KSNA for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024. The full statement including all details can be found here on Facebook.]]> Announcements https://www.flightsim.news/643/verticalsim-announces-john-wayne-airport-ksna-for-fs2024 Thu, 02 Apr 2026 21:48:51 +0000 246 Sascha 0 https://www.flightsim.news/642/pepelatz-announces-yak18t-for-x-plane-12
Developer Alex Pepelatz has announced the development of a Yakovlev Yak-18T for X-Plane 12 here on the X-Plane.org forum. Following his Yak-55M, this marks the next Russian classic from his portfolio. The Yak-18 is a radial-engine-powered training aircraft from the former Soviet Union. The Yak-18T is a cabin-modified version of the base model to feature a four seater cabin.
 
The first preview screenshots so far only show the bare, untextured 3D model. However, it looks extremely detailed.]]> Announcements https://www.flightsim.news/642/pepelatz-announces-yak18t-for-x-plane-12 Thu, 02 Apr 2026 12:23:58 +0000 203 Sascha 0 https://www.flightsim.news/639/simworks-brings-their-kodiak-100-to-fs2024
The developers at SimWorks Studios have released their Kodiak 100 for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024. It comes fully optimized for FS2024 with improved visuals and more in-depth systems. The high-wing turboprop is available for around € 48 at Contrail or € 34.99 directly at the FSW Store.]]> Releases https://www.flightsim.news/639/simworks-brings-their-kodiak-100-to-fs2024 Sat, 28 Mar 2026 18:10:25 +0000 261 Sascha 0 https://www.flightsim.news/637/carenado-releases-king-air-b200-for-fs2024
A few hours ago, Carenado have released their King Air B200 for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024. The aircraft comes in a "classic edition" with mostly steam gauges. The add-on is available in the Microsoft Flight Simulator in-sim Marketplace for USD 24.99.]]> Releases https://www.flightsim.news/637/carenado-releases-king-air-b200-for-fs2024 Fri, 27 Mar 2026 05:45:54 +0000 278 Sascha 0 https://www.flightsim.news/636/verticalsim-releases-krsw-fs2024-free-owners-fs2020-version
 
Verticalsim just dropped KRSW for MSFS 2024 — and if you already own the FS2020 version, you’re getting in for free (yep, 100% discount).
The airport has received a full makeover, featuring updated asphalt and concrete surfaces, refreshed markings and lighting, improved LODs, and even walkable terminal interiors.
Right now, the scenery is exclusive to Contrailᴬ, with other stores expected to follow in the coming days. If you own the FS2020 version, the free upgrade should already be available via the Contrail app.]]> Releases https://www.flightsim.news/636/verticalsim-releases-krsw-fs2024-free-owners-fs2020-version Thu, 26 Mar 2026 22:50:28 +0000 306 Sascha 0 https://www.flightsim.news/635/this-x-plane-12-freeware-aircraft-you-should-know
 
X-Plane 12 offers a growing collection of high-quality freeware aircraft – from study-level airliners to hidden gems for regional and bush flying. Some of these addons easily compete with payware in terms of systems depth and flight realism.
In this article, we highlight some of the best freeware aircraft you should definitely try.
 
Airliners
Unlike in other categories, most high-quality freeware airliners in X-Plane 12 are not built from scratch. Instead, they are extensive modifications of default aircraft, significantly improving systems, flight models, and overall realism.
This means there are currently no fully independent, study-level freeware airliners – but some of these mods come surprisingly close.
 
Zibo 737-800
Probably the most famous freeware aircraft in X-Plane. The Zibo 737 is a complete rework of the default Boeing 737-800 and features an exceptional level of system depth. From a fully functional FMC to realistic LNAV/VNAV behavior, it is considered near study-level and is constantly being updated by the community.
Download: 1.95 GB via Google Drive
 
AeroGenesis A330-300
A complete rework of the X-Plane default A330-300 by a dedicated developer group. The aircraft is actively being improved and already offers a solid long-haul experience with modern Airbus systems.
Download: 522 MB from GitHub.
 
Sparky 747-400
A major overhaul of the default Boeing 747. The Sparky mod significantly improves systems, flight model, and avionics, making it a solid option for long-haul flights in X-Plane 12.
Download: 70 kB from X-Plane.org.
 
Regional Aircraft
 
X-Crafts E175 / E195 (Free Version)
A modern regional jet with clean avionics and a user-friendly cockpit. The free version offers a great balance between accessibility and system depth, making it ideal for pilots transitioning from GA to airliners.
Download: Directly from xcrafts.com.
 
LET L-410 Turbolet

A highly detailed freeware twin-engine turboprop designed for short-haul and regional operations. Known for its excellent STOL performance, it is perfect for small airfields and challenging environments.
It shines on unpaved runways and remote locations, offering a very hands-on and rewarding flying experience. It features custom systems and a very realistic flight model, making it one of the most underrated freeware aircraft available.
Download: 324,6 MB from x-plane.hu.
 
General Aviation
 
Aerobask Robin DR401
A beautifully modeled GA aircraft perfect for VFR flying. It combines great visuals with smooth handling and is ideal for relaxed flights or sightseeing.
Download: Directly via Aerobask.
 
King Air C90B (Modded)
An improved version of the default King Air with enhanced systems and flight behavior. A solid turboprop option for medium-range flights and IFR practice.
Download: 132.6 MB form X-Plane.org.
 
YAK-55M
A lightweight aerobatic aircraft built for extreme maneuverability. Perfect for pilots who want to explore aerobatics and push the limits of flight physics.
Originally published for X-Plane 9 by Nils, reworked in January 2023 for X-Plane 12 by arpeggio.
Download: 80.9 MB from X-Plane.org.
 
Helicopters
Next, we take things vertical. Helicopters in X-Plane 12 offer a completely different flying experience, requiring precise control and a good understanding of aerodynamics.
 
HSF Alouette III
A lightweight helicopter with very realistic flight dynamics. It is particularly well suited for pilots who want to experience authentic helicopter handling in X-Plane 12.
Download: 958.3 MB from X-Plane.org.
 
EC135 / H145 (Community Mods)
Modern multi-role helicopters often used for rescue and medical operations. These mods offer advanced systems and are a great challenge for experienced helicopter pilots.
Download: 562 MB from X-Plane.org.
 
Military Aircraft
 
Dassault Mirage IIIC

A classic jet fighter with impressive performance and detailed modeling. Perfect for high-speed flights and a different kind of flying experience.
Download: 422.5 MB from X-Plane.org.
 
Eurofighter Typhoon (Freeware)
A modern fighter jet with advanced avionics and high maneuverability. A great choice for those looking for fast-paced action.
 
Tools
 
Not all great freeware in X-Plane 12 comes in the form of aircraft. These tools can significantly improve your overall simulation experience.
 
Better Pushback
 A must-have plugin that adds realistic pushback operations. It allows you to plan pushback routes, communicate withground crew, and greatly enhances immersion at the gate.
Download: 107 MB via GitHub.
 
LittleNavMap
A very useful tool by the german developer Alexander Barthel which allows you to perform detailed flight plans
Download: Via GitHub.
 
AviTab
An in-game tablet that integrates seamlessly into many aircraft. It allows you to view charts, maps, PDFs, and even browse the web without leaving the simulator.
Highlight]]> Guides https://www.flightsim.news/635/this-x-plane-12-freeware-aircraft-you-should-know Tue, 24 Mar 2026 11:41:50 +0000 5067 Sascha 0 https://www.flightsim.news/633/aerosoft-releases-airport-stuttgart-airfields-stuttgart
 Today, Aerosoft released the previously announced scenery packs for Stuttgart Airport and Stuttgart Airfield for FS2024. These are available individually or as a bundle for just under 30 euros. Both scenery packs were developed in-house by the Aerosoft Dev Team. The FS2024-native scenery packs thus promise a state-of-the-art representation of Stuttgart Airport.
 
The Stuttgart Airport scenery is available individually for €22.49. The Airfields Stuttgart scenery pack includes a total of six airfields in the vicinity of Stuttgart Airport, perfect for the occasional GA hop around the airport. One of these airfields is a small glider airfield. The Airfields Stuttgart pack is available individually for €9.99.]]> Releases https://www.flightsim.news/633/aerosoft-releases-airport-stuttgart-airfields-stuttgart Mon, 23 Mar 2026 12:01:31 +0000 294 Sascha 0 https://www.flightsim.news/630/b200-king-air-by-carenado-for-fs2024-close-to-release
Carenado have announce on their Facebook page that their Beechcraft King Air B200 for FS2024 is arriving very soon.]]> Announcements https://www.flightsim.news/630/b200-king-air-by-carenado-for-fs2024-close-to-release Sat, 21 Mar 2026 19:13:21 +0000 228 Sascha 0 https://www.flightsim.news/629/29palms-does-mykonos-again

Just a few hours ago, 29Palms Scenery Design announced that it would be developing the third edition of Mykonos for flight simulation. Having originally been released for FS9, the scenery will now be ported natively to FS2024. More information will follow—stay tuned]]> Announcements https://www.flightsim.news/629/29palms-does-mykonos-again Thu, 19 Mar 2026 19:11:38 +0000 295 Sascha 0 https://www.flightsim.news/626/inibuilds-showcases-upcoming-tristar-fs2024-twitch-livestream
Today, iniBuilds offered a first in-depth look at their upcoming Tristar for Microsoft Flight Simulator during a live stream on Twitch. European Community Manager Cameron guided viewers through the presentation, joined by developer Mike from the team.
 
The session began in a cold-and-dark cockpit before moving outside for a detailed walkaround of the aircraft. iniBuilds is modelling the Tristar Dash 5 variant—slightly shorter than its counterparts, but also the most powerful and longest-range version.
 
Back in the cockpit, the team demonstrated the startup procedure, highlighting the depth of the simulation. Complex systems such as the pneumatic system are fully modelled, and even features like INS drift have been implemented—though this can be disabled if desired. To balance realism with accessibility, routes including SIDs, STARs, and waypoints can be imported directly into the INS. A retrofitted GPS unit on the main panel also brings a touch of modern convenience to the classic airliner.
 
For those who prefer a more streamlined experience, an “analog EFB” in the form of a clipboard allows the virtual flight engineer to handle startup procedures automatically via an “Autocomplete” function.
Following the setup, the crew departed from JFK for a short test flight, showcasing the aircraft in action.
 
Overall, the preview suggests that iniBuilds is aiming to deliver a highly detailed yet flexible simulation, catering both to hardcore enthusiasts and more casual simmers alike. If you’re interested in classic widebodies with deep system modelling, the Tristar is definitely one to watch.]]> Previews https://www.flightsim.news/626/inibuilds-showcases-upcoming-tristar-fs2024-twitch-livestream Wed, 18 Mar 2026 16:07:51 +0000 173 Sascha 0 https://www.flightsim.news/618/blackbird-simulations-hercules-finally-received-official
 
Nearly a year after its initial release in Alpha (Early Access), Blackbird Simulations’ C-130 Hercules has finally reached version 1.0.0 and is now officially released.
The aircraft is available for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 and marks an important milestone after an extended testing and development phase.
The add-on is available directly from Blackbird Simulations for $39.99, excluding local VAT.]]> Releases https://www.flightsim.news/618/blackbird-simulations-hercules-finally-received-official Mon, 16 Mar 2026 08:12:58 +0000 385 Sascha 0 https://www.flightsim.news/617/studios-announces-porto-lppr-for-microsoft-flight-simulator

Yesterday, the developers at MK Studios announced a mod for Porto Airport (LPPR/OPO) for Microsoft Flight Simulator. While they usually don’t share WIP photos of unfinished products on Facebook, they decided to make an exception this time, as the developers noted in their announcement post. Lucky for us, this means we have something to show—and you have something to look at. The first screenshots can be seen in this Facebook post.]]> Announcements https://www.flightsim.news/617/studios-announces-porto-lppr-for-microsoft-flight-simulator Mon, 16 Mar 2026 08:00:40 +0000 190 Sascha 0 https://www.flightsim.news/615/nimbus-announces-boeing-707-for-x-plane-12
 
The developers at Nimbus Simulation Studios first announced their plans for a Boeing 707 for X-Plane 12 toward the end of February. At the time, however, their Facebook teaser only revealed the aircraft’s engines.
 That has now changed. In a new post shared yesterday evening, the team showcased the complete exterior model of the aircraft for the first time. They also noted that development is progressing quite well, which certainly sounds encouraging and suggests that a release within the coming months could be possible.
 
An exact release date has not yet been announced, but we’ll keep an eye on further updates.
 

]]> Announcements https://www.flightsim.news/615/nimbus-announces-boeing-707-for-x-plane-12 Mon, 16 Mar 2026 06:37:34 +0000 1997 Sascha 0 https://www.flightsim.news/612/aerosoft-toliss-a340-released-microsoft-flight-simulator
The A340-600 from Aerosoft and ToLiss for MSFS 24 was recently released. The add-on is available for just under 65 euros right here at Aerosoft.
 
With this add-on, the developers are venturing into Microsoft Flight Simulator for the first time. Until now, they have been known for their highly detailed recreations of various Airbus aircraft for X-Plane 11 and X-Plane 12. The collaboration with Aerosoft, which has frequently attempted detailed recreations of Airbus aircraft in the past, now represents a first in flight simulation. It is expected to raise the bar in terms of quality. Let’s wait for the first reactions and reviews from the community.
 ]]> Releases https://www.flightsim.news/612/aerosoft-toliss-a340-released-microsoft-flight-simulator Sun, 15 Mar 2026 11:50:37 +0000 197 Sascha 0 https://www.flightsim.news/610/toliss-x-aerosoft-airbus-a340-600-nearly-here
 
With a new preview video of the upcoming Airbus A340-600 for Microsoft Flight Simulator, ToLiss and Aerosoft are heralding the final step before the release of the add-on. The developers have also stated this in a press release. The release is therefore likely to be imminent. The video is also the official trailer for the add-on.
This project is the first collaboration between the two development studios and has raised high hopes among many flight simulator enthusiasts for a high-quality add-on aircraft.
 ]]> Previews https://www.flightsim.news/610/toliss-x-aerosoft-airbus-a340-600-nearly-here Sat, 07 Mar 2026 17:20:02 +0000 187 Sascha 0 https://www.flightsim.news/608/29palms-releases-chania-lgsa-microsoft-flight-simulator-2024
With the rendition of the Chania International Airport (LGSA/CHQ), 29Palms Scenery Design released their next scenery for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 a few hours ago. In addition to Heraklion, Chania is the second airport on the Greek island of Crete. The scenery is exclusively compatible with MFS 24 and available here in the Contrail Shopᴬ for €19.04 (including VAT).]]> Releases https://www.flightsim.news/608/29palms-releases-chania-lgsa-microsoft-flight-simulator-2024 Fri, 06 Mar 2026 07:04:10 +0000 208 Sascha 0 https://www.flightsim.news/605/x-crafts-embraer-erj-family-2-0-for-x-plane-12-released

Announced several months ago, the ERJs from X-Crafts are now available. This is not a simple compatibility update of the XP11 variant for X-Plane 12, but a completely new development.
All aircraft in the Embraer Regional Jets (ERJ) series have been implemented. This includes not only the ERJ 135 and ERJ 145, but also the special ERJ 140, the ERJ 145 XR, and the Embraer Legacy.
The complete package of all aircraft is available for around $140 here in the X-Plane.org Store, or each aircraft can be purchased individually for around $70. All the different packages can be found here.]]> Releases https://www.flightsim.news/605/x-crafts-embraer-erj-family-2-0-for-x-plane-12-released Thu, 26 Feb 2026 08:18:26 +0000 202 Sascha 0 https://www.flightsim.news/604/dreamfoil-bell-206-jetranger-released-for-x-plane-12
 
The Dreamfoil Creations Bell 206 JetRanger for X-Plane 12 was recently released. This is not a simple upgrade of the existing XP-11 version, but rather a comprehensive redevelopment. Features include high-resolution PBR textures, a realistic flight model, and a refined implementation of the helicopter in general. Another special feature is “SlapSim” — a realistic simulation of blade tip speed that generates the knocking sound characteristic of two-bladed rotors when it would realistically occur.
The add-on is available for just under $40 here in the X-Plane.org Store.]]> Releases https://www.flightsim.news/604/dreamfoil-bell-206-jetranger-released-for-x-plane-12 Thu, 26 Feb 2026 08:00:34 +0000 362 Sascha 0 https://www.flightsim.news/599/fsdg-releases-reunion-airport-fmee-for-msfs
Yesterday, the developers at FSDG released the Reunion FMEE for Microsoft Flight Simulator. It is located on the French island of Reunion in the Indian Ocean. The scenery is compatible with both FS2024 and FS2020. The scenery is available for just under 20 euros directly from the FSDG online shop.]]> Releases https://www.flightsim.news/599/fsdg-releases-reunion-airport-fmee-for-msfs Thu, 22 Jan 2026 04:21:25 +0000 309 Sascha 0 https://www.flightsim.news/598/gaya-is-back-corfu-international-on-final
After several years of silence, Gaya is back. Of course, they have a new scenery in store. On their Facebook page today, they announced the release of Corfu Airport (LGKR/CFU) for Microsoft Flight Simulator. They have not yet announced when the scenery will be released, but it should not be too long now. The scenery is scheduled to be released for both FS2024 and FS2020.]]> Announcements https://www.flightsim.news/598/gaya-is-back-corfu-international-on-final Wed, 21 Jan 2026 19:05:36 +0000 272 Sascha 0 https://www.flightsim.news/591/captain7-is-out-for-now
Some had already suspected it, now it’s official: Captain7 is stepping away from scenery development for the time being.He announced his decision a few hours ago in a Facebook post.
While his rendition of Nuremberg EDDN for Prepar3D – and later for MSFS – was a big success, a number of factors eventually led him to this point.His next planned project, Hannover Airport, unfortunately fell through due to complications during the COVID-19 pandemic.A few years ago, he also took on a new full-time job, which now leaves little time for flight sim development as a hobby.
So – farewell for now, Volker. Thank you for all your fantastic work – and, as the saying goes: You never really leave completely. :)
Find now Captain7&#039 Products at Contrailᴬ.]]> General https://www.flightsim.news/591/captain7-is-out-for-now Wed, 22 Oct 2025 05:22:25 +0000 411 Sascha 0 https://www.flightsim.news/588/aerosoft-x-toliss-new-a340-previews
It was recently announced that Aerosoft and ToLiss are joining forces to develop Airbus aircraft for Microsoft Flight Simulator. Now, more preview screenshots of the upcoming A340, developed in collaboration with ToLiss, have appeared on the Aerosoft Discord.

In addition, contrary to initial reports, the A340 will be released before the A330.

]]> Previews https://www.flightsim.news/588/aerosoft-x-toliss-new-a340-previews Sun, 19 Oct 2025 08:12:55 +0000 408 Sascha 0 https://www.flightsim.news/586/inibuilds-releases-svalbard-longyear-microsoft-simulator
A few hours ago, the developers at iniBuilds released SVB for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024. For £9.99 GBP (around €11.49 EUR/$13.42 USD), you can fly to the world&#039 northernmost commercial airport in northern Norway. Further details, screenshots, and purchase information can be found here on the product page directly at iniBuilds.]]> Releases https://www.flightsim.news/586/inibuilds-releases-svalbard-longyear-microsoft-simulator Sat, 18 Oct 2025 03:08:45 +0000 305 Sascha 0 https://www.flightsim.news/584/pyreegue-announces-mallorca-airport-microsoft-simulator
A few hours ago, the developers at Pyreegue announced a conversion of Palma de Mallorca Airport for the MFS. In this post on their Facebook page, they show an early 3D render of the tower building and the airport tower. No further information is available yet, but we will stay on top of it.]]> Announcements https://www.flightsim.news/584/pyreegue-announces-mallorca-airport-microsoft-simulator Wed, 15 Oct 2025 18:16:51 +0000 345 Sascha 0