In 2022, Microsoft Flight Simulator celebrated its 40th anniversary with the release of the 40th Anniversary Edition. This special edition, offered for free to existing owners and Xbox Game Pass players, pays homage to the franchise’s history while looking towards the future. It reintroduces classic airports and iconic planes from previous versions, including Microsoft Flight Simulator X and Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004: A Century of Flight.

Responding to community requests, the 40th Anniversary Edition introduces new aircraft types, such as helicopters with an all-new Fluid Dynamics Simulation, gliders for a unique planetary experience, and a highly detailed airliner. Historical aircraft like the Wright Flyer, Ryan NYP (“Spirit of St. Louis”), Douglas DC-3, and De Havilland Canada DHC-2-Beaver are featured. Additionally, helicopters like the Bell-407 and Guimbal Cabri G2, gliders like the DG Flugzeugbau LG8-18 and DG Flugzeugbau DG1001E neo, and the Airbus A310 airliner are included.

Collaborating with third-party developers like iniSimulations, MilViz, Bluemesh, Aeroplane Heaven, and others, the edition ensures a high level of authenticity. The Deluxe 40th Anniversary Edition goes further by adding five additional planes with unique flight models and five handcrafted international airports to the Standard Edition offerings.

The 40th Anniversary Edition underscores the enduring popularity of Microsoft Flight Simulator, combining a tribute to its rich history with advancements that push the boundaries of flight simulation. As the sky beckons, Microsoft Flight Simulator continues to provide enthusiasts with an immersive and realistic flying experience.