Commercial Simulation Systems (CSS) has recently released version 1.9.0 of their Boeing 737-500 Classic for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 and 2024.
One of the main highlights is the introduction of a Virtual Crew system, complete with customisable, airline-specific sound packs, as well as boarding music to elevate the pre-flight atmosphere. On the functionality side, SimBrief flight plan import has been added, while expanded ATC frequency change support, including compatibility with vPilot, makes flying on VATSIM more seamless. The link between ACP volume and vPilot further refines the audio experience for virtual airline and network pilots.
Visually and interactively, the cockpit has seen noticeable upgrades with enhanced detailing, animated checklists, and custom sun visors, alongside compatibility with MSFS 2024’s walkaround mode.
System-wise, improved FMC functionality, a Takoff Card, and new standby instrument guidance (LOC/GS pointers) have now been added. Behind the scenes, a wide range of new simulator events have been introduced, opening the door for better hardware integration and control.
Many other fixes and updates have also been included; the full changelog can be found below.
To purchase the CSS Boeing 737-500 for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 and 2024, you can either subscribe on a per-month basis for $5 USD, an annual subscription of $50 USD, or a one-time purchase at $120 USD.
CSS Boeing 737-500 Changelog
- Added Virtual Crew with Customisable, Airline-Specific sound pack capability
- Added Boarding Music
- Added SimBrief CO RTE import
- Added frequency change support for default ATC, BATC, SI and vPilot
- Linked ACP Volume to vPilot
- Added FS24 Walkaround Mode compatibility
- Added Emergency Exit Lights
- Added Auto Speedbrake Sound
- Added an option to use Sim UTC instead of System UTC
- Added Takeoff Card
- Added Custom Sun Visors
- Added Animated Checklist
- Added Visual Details to Cockpit
- Added LOC and GS pointers to Standby AI
- Added Hidden TOGA Clickspot
- Added Clickspots to Hide EFB
- Added Coordinate Entry Rules to FMC
- Improved Speedbrake Mixer operation
- Improved Internal Sound Attenuation
- Improved Battery Charger operation
- Improved Cabin Ceiling Lights Illumination logic
- Changed Window Handles
- Changed Gear Handle animation
- Changed VHF1/2 ACP Volume knob position in Panel States
- Prevented the camera from moving through objects and doors
- Added Sim Event for CMD1 Engage
- Added Sim Event for Arm Autothrottle
- Added Sim Event for MCP N1
- Added Sim Event for MCP SPD
- Added Sim Event for MCP VNAV
- Added Sim Event for MCP LVL CHG
- Added Sim Event for MCP HDG
- Added Sim Event for MCP LNAV
- Added Sim Event for MCP VOR/LOC
- Added Sim Event for MCP APP
- Added Sim Event for MCP ALT HLD
- Added Sim Event for MCP V/S
- Added Sim Event for COM1/2 Swap
- Added Sim Event for Rudder Trim Left/Right
- Added Sim Event for Rudder Trim Reset
- Added Sim Event for Set Altimeter
- Added Sim Event for Toggle Landing Lights
- Added Sim Event for Toggle Taxi Lights
- Added Sim Event for Toggle Beacon Lights
- Added Sim Event for Toggle Strobe Lights
- Added Sim Event for Toggle Wing Lights
- Added Sim Event for Engine Start Levers
- Added Sim Event for Toggle Spoilers
- Added Sim Event for Toggle Arm Spoilers
- Added Sim Event for Gear Horn Cutout
- Several Navdata fixes
- Fixed Flap Indicator misalignment
- Fixed VECTOR segment processing
- Fixed RTE page showing selected runway with <SEL> flag
- Fixed P31 airway endpoints
- Fixed FMC LAST POS changing when parked on chocks
- Fixed EMER EXIT Lights switch ON when closing the guard instead of ARM
- Connected Rudder Pedals to Trim
- Connected Rudder in Exterior Model to Trim
- Fixed Roll Spoilers not moving with AP on
- Fixed the elevator not moving with AP on
- Fixed Nose Gear doors sometimes being closed when loading panel state
- Fixed the FIX page using True bearing instead of Magnetic
- Fixed the FIX symbol remaining on EHSI after FIX deletion
- Fixed HOLD inbound course using True bearing instead of Magnetic
- Fixed the Arrival Runway symbol remaining on EHSI after arrival
- Fixed Commanded Mach not matching Active Cruise Mach
- Fixed the exception when selecting the arrival runway
- Fixed the Missing Minimums callout
- Fixed Incomplete aircraft loading
- Fixed the EFB Load button being visible while airborne with the instant loading option selected
- Fixed EFB Offload not working
- Fixed the EFB Chocks button being visible with engines running
