Microsoft Flight Simulator 40th Anniversary Edition review

40 years and still going strong

Can you believe it? Microsoft’s Flight Simulator is 40 years old. And like many of you reading this article, I was there at the very beginning. Looking on the bright side, I’m also still around to moan about it. But we’re not going there in this article, let’s instead look at the goodies they’ve lavished on us in this latest instalment. The list is quite extensive and includes some long-called-for features and the developers have also sprinkled in a few surprises to sweeten the pot.

One of my more successful landing in the Needles Lighthouse helipad.
One of my more successful landings in the Needles Lighthouse helipad. Joe Lavery

Where to begin?

Each Microsoft Flight Simulator (MSFS) update provides similar features and improvements but this time the sheer volume is almost overwhelming. You have seven new classic aircraft, two helicopters, two sailplanes and a true-to-life airliner in this update. However, there are plenty more additions to focus on, so let’s start with one of my favourites, the new airports.

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