Commercial Simulation Systems released new information about their first-ever add-on for Microsoft Flight Simulator. They first announced this add-on in November 2024 when they unveiled the 737-500 for MSFS 2020. Since this first announcement, they have been working on this aircraft and the rest of the 737 Classic family of aircraft.
Recently, they released news about the progress made with the development of the 737-500. New screenshots shared by the developer show this aircraft inside the simulator for the first time. They also confirmed that the 737-500 is now in closed beta and being actively tested. They also released information about the future of this add-on and the addition of the remaining 737 Classic aircraft.
737-500 Progress
Since the first announcement of the aircraft, the team of developers has continued working on the 737-500. This is their first aircraft release for MSFS 2020. The aircraft is now in closed beta as testers try out the systems inside the simulator. They also have people working in this aircraft’s EFB with Navigraph incorporation. The developer is also improving and creating textures inside the cabin, cockpit, and exterior. These texture artists are also working on liveries included with the aircraft. CSS showcased pictures of the aircraft inside the simulator, with fully operational lights and screens.
The Future of This Add-on
The 737-500 is only the beginning of this add-on. This will act as the base product, future additions from the 737 Classic family will be added. The aircraft planning on being added in the future are:
- 737-300
- 737-400
- Cargo variants of all versions
According to the developer, these versions will arrive as additions to the base 737-500 package. They will not have an extra cost for any new addition. During the release of the 737-500, the aircraft will arrive without GPS and only the passenger version. It will include basic FMS and IRS functionality. More features like LNAV and VNAV, advanced failures, and more will arrive later as updates. CSS will post a roadmap after the initial launch with their scheduled release of the new aircraft and systems.
In the meantime, CSS will continue to work on the 737-500, launcher and payment system since this aircraft is only available for purchase via their launcher. The developer is confident they will reveal the initial release date soon. More screenshots featuring the aircraft’s exterior will be shared soon. For more details about the pricing of this add-on, you can check our previous article about the CSS 737-500.
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