Microsoft has released City Update 13, bringing a significant improvement to multiple cities across California in Microsoft Flight Simulator. The update is available now as a free download for all users on PC and Xbox.
City Update 13 focuses on enhanced photogrammetry and improved terrain data, delivering more accurate cityscapes, landmarks, and urban layouts across the state. In total, 18 Californian cities have received updates, making this one of the more expansive City Updates released for the platform.
Among the featured areas are San Francisco and the wider Bay Area, including Oakland and San Jose, with improved representation of landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge and downtown skylines. Sacramento, California’s capital, also sees visual upgrades, alongside several cities across the Central Valley, including Fresno, Modesto, and Visalia.
Further south, the update enhances Santa Barbara and Santa Maria along the Central Coast, while Southern California receives substantial coverage across the greater Los Angeles metropolitan area, including Long Beach, Anaheim, and Glendale. San Diego is also included, featuring improved waterfront areas and downtown scenery.
The update uses refined photogrammetry techniques and surface texturing to improve building shapes, terrain accuracy, and overall visual consistency when flying at low altitudes. These enhancements are particularly noticeable during VFR operations and scenic flights.
City Update 13 is available now via the in-sim Marketplace and Content Manager and is free for all Microsoft Flight Simulator owners on both MSFS 2020 and MSFS 2024.
