Developed by FlightControlTools (Fabio Merlo), FlightControlSpotter is a camera add-on for Microsoft Flight Simulator that turns the sim into a comprehensive plane-spotting and observation platform. Version 1.1 introduces automatic Point of Interest (POI) management, key camera fixes, and official Marketplace support for Xbox Series X|S users. With expanded camera options and enhanced landmark detection, the update brings a broader range of airport and ground-level views directly to simmers on both PC and console.
Update Highlights
The centrepiece of v1.1 is the new POI management feature. FlightControlSpotter can now detect and present notable landmarks and attractions near the user’s aircraft, expanding the tool’s scope beyond airport infrastructure. This functionality allows instant access to unique viewpoints at major landmarks worldwide, further enhancing the add-on’s utility for both casual users and dedicated spotters.
Additional improvements target camera behaviour and interface clarity. Spot and Tower View controls have been fixed, eliminating bugs that prevented correct enable/disable status and occasionally caused empty Tower View positions. The automatic simulator pause on view changes—previously disruptive—has been removed; the pause now only activates when jumping to a Spot View more than thirty nautical miles away. The default drone zoom is set to seventy per cent for better tracking, font sizes adapt to screen resolution, and altitude logic for Tower and Spot Views is now more precise.
Marketplace Launch and Platform Expansion
With this update, FlightControlSpotter is now officially available on the Microsoft Flight Simulator Marketplace for both PC and Xbox Series X|S. This marks the first time the add-on is accessible on console, following its initial SimMarket release for PC in August 2025. The move brings the full feature set to a wider audience and simplifies installation and updating for all users.
Simulator Integration
FlightControlSpotter integrates directly into the MSFS toolbar, providing immediate access to tower, runway, and custom spot views at any supported location. All transitions use the simulator’s native drone camera for manual cinematic control. A dedicated shortcut returns the user to the cockpit at any moment, allowing seamless switching between spotting and flight.
Version 1.1 is a free update for all current owners on SimMarket and is included in all Marketplace purchases. The user guide and full documentation are available via the FlightControlTools website. This update confirms FlightControlSpotter’s position as the most flexible plane spotting tool currently available in Microsoft Flight Simulator.
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