Ever dreamt of flying a plane over Sydney Harbour or the Great Barrier Reef? That’s now a reality thanks to Microsoft Flight Simulator which has just launched the World Update 21 that adds remarkable detail to Australian locations and destinations.
The Microsoft Flight Simulator update was launched in collaboration with the New South Wales Rural Fire Service.
It is the world’s largest volunteer fire service, more than 70,000 dedicated volunteers who work to prevent and manage bush fires – one of the biggest threats in the country.
The launch event was held at the RFS hangar in Bankstown, which is the base for real-world operations of aerial firefighting, which has been brought to life in the Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 with an exclusive firefighting mission.
Users can choose between flying a Cessna or fighter jet or go all the way up to an Airbus A380 and experience realistic flight over some of Australia’s most amazing locations.
There are now more than 30 new photogrammetry cities, six new airports, and 36 new hand-crafted points of interest including The Big Koala, The Big Mango, and The Gig Golden Guitar.
But you can also explore the urban sprawl of Sydney, the vast open spaces of the outback and other major cities.
Pilots can also go on guided tours over stunning regions like the Whitsundays, the nation’s capital, and the remote Cocos Islands.
There are new challenges and activities, including four precision landings, three landing challenges, one bush trip, two low-altitude challenges along with two rally race challenges.
“Our World Updates are a cornerstone of Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024,” says Jorg Neumann, Head of Microsoft Flight Simulator.
“When we decide on a region for a dedicated update, we look for areas that offer a truly unique and diverse set of challenges and wonders, and Australia absolutely stands out in that regard.
“This focus allows us to truly celebrate Australia’s breathtaking natural beauty and unique aviation heritage.
“We’ve seen incredible engagement from our Australian community, and we hope this next chapter inspires both new and returning Simmers to experience this incredible region with unparalleled realism.”
The Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 World Update 21: Australia is available now as a free download for all owners of Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 and Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 and is also accessible through Xbox Game Pass on Xbox Series XIS, PC, and with Xbox Cloud Gaming.




