Microsoft Flight Simulator – Aircraft and Avionics Update 1 released

Just before the first month of 2023 comes to a close, Asobo has squeezed out the first major update for Microsoft Flight Simulator — the Aircraft and Avionics update. This is the first of a new series of subsequent updates that will focus squarely on improving the flight behavior and systems of specific default aircraft. But, as shown by the patch notes, this update also makes some adjustments and fixes to the core sim itself.

This first Aircraft and Avionics update for Microsoft Flight Simulator primarily targets the Dahmer TBM 930, Cessna Citation CJ4, and Cessna Citation Longitude (for Premium Deluxe owners). All three of these aircraft have received an extensive overhaul of their parameters and systems, bringing improved realism both inside and out of the cockpit. As it relates to the TBM specifically, you really can admire both the inside and outside of the aircraft. Its doors are also now operational; a small, but very key detail that’s been missing since launch.

Various aspects of the aircraft are improved. Players should now have a more authentic simulation of the behavior of each aircraft. This primarily relates to the flight systems, which are now far more comprehensive.

Screenshot by PC Invasion

Before the update, the community already sought to improve these aircraft on its own. As a result, Asobo warns that any modifications players may have downloaded for the CJ4, TBM, and Longitude must be disabled and removed in order for the new versions of these aircraft to function properly. The officially-backed G3000 mod from the Working Title team must also be removed, as it is now obsolete.

Microsoft Flight Simulator – Aircraft and Avionics Update flies high

The “avionics” portion of the update features enhancements for the Garmin GNS 430W/GNS 530W GPS modules included in many aircraft. These have been upgraded to be closer to their real-life counterparts with enhanced functionality. The C172 Classic, Cap 10, DA-40 TDI, DV-20, L-39, P-51D, and T-6 all now feature these new GPS units.

The even more robust Garmin G3000/G5000 modules have also been enhanced with more functionality. There are features like advanced flight plan support, VNAV improvements, enhanced customization options, and a lot more.

The exhaustive list of all the new features added to the various aircraft systems in this update can be found in the official patch notes for this update.