Forgot password
Enter the email address you used when you joined and we'll send you instructions to reset your password.
If you used Apple or Google to create your account, this process will create a password for your existing account.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Reset password instructions sent. If you have an account with us, you will receive an email within a few minutes.
Something went wrong. Try again or contact support if the problem persists.
Microsoft Flight Simulator Beta

Microsoft Flight Simulator to enter closed beta in July

Cleared for takeoff.
This article is over 4 years old and may contain outdated information

The future of real-world plane travel is still up in the air at the moment, but that’s okay. The next best thing, Microsoft Flight Simulator, should enter closed beta testing some time in July.

Recommended Videos

An official update on the Flight Simulator website provides a development roadmap (flightmap?) for the next few months of work on the game. While there’s no concrete date just yet, the roadmap states that a closed beta for the game will start in mid-July.

Microsoft Flight Simulator Beta Roadmap

The roadmap is fairly comprehensive, showing some of the other milestones in the ongoing project. A third alpha test began for the game on May 14, with two more scheduled for June. It’s worth noting that the beta will likely only start on time if everything in these alpha tests goes according to plan.

Microsoft Flight Simulator‘s beta roadmap

The roadmap also details a variety of changes that have been made to planes and airports within the game. Some planes are now easier to control in the air, while additional bug fixes have been introduced. Considering that many game studios are so secretive about in-development projects, it’s nice to get a blow-by-blow report on how the Baron G58’s propeller speed has been altered to match real life.

The notes also explain that the Socata TBM 930 can now teleport when its fuel tank is full. Just like real life.

Microsoft Flight Simulator Beta Plan

At present, Microsoft Flight Simulator is still scheduled to leave beta testing and release in 2020. Whether the game makes this date remains to be seen, especially considering how much work still needs to be done. When finished, Flight Simulator will purportedly feature every airport on Earth. This kind of infrastructure is going to take time, and development isn’t exactly easy under current remote working conditions.

Regardless of whether the game makes its vague release date, it’s clear that work is progressing nicely. Before too long, plane enthusiasts will be able to take to the digital skies – even if boarding an actual plane will be a lot more challenging.


PC Invasion is supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission. Learn more about our Affiliate Policy
Author