PDMG has provided two lengthy updates on the progress of their aircraft products in Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 and Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024. In both posts, we are made aware of their current MSFS 2024 compatibility, and upgrade plans, and also given some new teasers for its upcoming 747 series.
In part 1 of Robert’s two posts on the official forum, he said that all PMDG products currently fall short of the standard they would expect to be defined as ‘compatible’ with Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024. Across all products, they found issues with screen brightness, font issues, communication issues, and more. Robert said that the 777 series is most negatively impacted, with the DC-6 being the most usable.
PMDG is evaluating all products and determining how to update them to bring their products forward to Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024. Each product is being evaluated on a case-by-case basis. That said, PMDG is currently awaiting Asobo/Microsoft to issue a fix to MSFS 2024 that will unblock existing products from being compatible with the new sim. In addition, PMDG is excited by what MSFS 2024 brings with it and therefore will be bringing enhanced re-issued planes with all-new features (e.g. walk around mode).
PMDG has said that all aircraft being re-issued may be subject to an upgrade fee. The DC-6 upgrade will be “very small” and the PMDG 777 series will be “small” if any charge is deemed necessary. The 737 series, however, will require a significant update in order to bring it up to the new standards. This includes new sound, aircraft interior, and more. More information will come soon on the 737 as they are determining how it will affect other developer resources within the team.
As for when we will see PMDG products either compatible or enhanced for the new sim, it’s hard for the team to say. They are communicating with Microsoft and Asobo to share what has broken their planes by simply dragging/dropping product folders to the new sim. As for the native/enhanced products, they are waiting on a toolkit for C++/WASM developers, which is currently without an ETA.
PMDG 777F
The PMDG 777F was put in the hold as Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 neared release, as PMDG were keen to see if they would put the aircraft in MSFS 2024 without any major issues. Based on the above, Robert has now decided that they are going to press ahead with a Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 release and issue an update when possible to migrate it to MSFS 2024.
With all that said, a new beta release was sent to their testing team which includes cargo deck lighting systems, operational controls of the main deck, safety nets and even expanded GSX compatibility. Robert said they anticipate one more beta cycle and then it should be in our hangars not long after. An exact date will be announced in due course.
PMDG 747 Classic Previews
Finally, PMDG shared some new information and previews on its upcoming 747 series for Microsoft Flight Simulator. The 747-400 is progressing nicely, with the team now mapping out changes that are necessary to ensure it works as intended with MSFS 2024.
As for the 747-100 model (serving as the basis for the 747-200 and the 747SP), we are given some renders from the 3D modelling software the team uses. These are untextured screenshots, but give an indication on the detail PMDG is adding to the plane.
The 747 Classic series will come with the CIVA triple INS system, “fully modelled to the degree of detail you would expect of PMDG.” However, the virtual flight engineer (seen in the DC-6) will be present to assist, including the ability to take your SimBrief plan and continually keep the INS fixes updated. For those that want something more modern, a Honeywell FMS will be an option so you can use a “later-in-service-life” aircraft to navigate the classic bird.
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That wraps up both of PMDG’s posts from the weekend. As usual, we’ll do our best to keep you updated with the latest news from the world of PMDG.
