PMDG has shared details about their progress with Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 (MSFS 2024). The update covers compatibility issues, future plans, and delays in upcoming releases. Robert Randazzo, PMDG’s CEO, outlined the team’s challenges and goals in a detailed forum post.
PMDG Compatibility Challenges with MSFS 2024
PMDG has been working with MSFS 2024 in recent weeks. Unfortunately, their current products for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 (MSFS 2020) are incompatible with the new simulator. This discovery contradicts Microsoft’s earlier claim that MSFS 2020 add-ons would work seamlessly with MSFS 2024.
Randazzo remains optimistic. He expects Microsoft to resolve these issues before the simulator’s release however, certain products will remain exclusive to one platform, while others will work across both.
“If I have come to learn anything in the past five years with MSFS2020, it is that the team at Asobo has incredible depth of skill and energy and they will come through.” – Randazzo
Upcoming PMDG Releases and Updates
PMDG outlined specific plans for their aircraft in MSFS 2024:
- 747 Series (including Classics): These will be exclusive to MSFS 2024.
- 777-200ER/-200LR and 737 MAX: These aircraft will also only be available for MSFS 2024.
- 777-300ER: A minor update will be released, potentially for a small fee. Randazzo prefers offering it for free but noted that the upgrade involves costs.
- PMDG 737 NG Series: A major upgrade is planned for MSFS 2024. Owners of the current version will pay an upgrade fee but not the full price.
- PMDG DC-6 Cloudmaster: The team has yet to decide if it will be updated for MSFS 2024.
777 Freighter Delays
The release of the 777 Freighter, initially scheduled for early August, has been delayed. The team faced several setbacks, including illnesses and unforeseen personal events. These challenges shifted the release to coincide with MSFS 2024’s launch window.
The team decided to rebuild the freighter using MSFS 2024’s SDK. This approach avoids compatibility issues and ensures the freighter leverages the new platform’s features. However, they have not disclosed a specific release date. Randazzo hinted that an MSFS 2020-compatible version could still be considered in the future.
Shifting Focus to MSFS 2024
PMDG has confirmed that no new products, aside from a possible 777 Freighter release, will be developed for MSFS 2020. The team is fully focused on transitioning to MSFS 2024.
Looking Ahead
PMDG continues to adapt to the changing Microsoft Flight Simulator ecosystem. Their commitment to quality and innovation ensures exciting developments ahead. To stay informed, users can follow their updates via community forums.
With compatibility solutions and new releases in the pipeline, PMDG remains at the forefront of flight simulation development.
