FlightSimExpo is right around the corner. You might be thinking: why travel all the way to Providence, Rhode Island, for a convention full of flight simmers? I thought the same once, but after attending 2024’s FlightSimExpo (FSExpo) in Las Vegas, I am convinced that flight sim enthusiasts of all levels should consider attending. Despite what you may think, there’s bound to be a good experience at FSExpo.
Hands-On with Exciting Products
FSExpo, much like conventions in other industries, provides a venue for companies across flight simulation to showcase their coolest gear. This can give you a valuable opportunity to try them out for yourself. This is especially true for physical hardware, where the quality of the product and its feel in your hand(s) can be a major aspect of the decision to buy. Last year, for example, I got hands-on with MOZA’s first-of-its-kind AB9 Force Feedback joystick as well as the much-anticipated Honeycomb Charlie rudder pedals.
FSExpo 2024 was also the first time we saw Winwing’s exciting airliner gear, such as the MCDU, PAP/MCP, and FCP. Although they were pre-production units, they were extremely exciting to see in person. I also had a chance to try out excellent VR headsets, unique force-feedback yokes, and much more. Software add-ons are well-represented as well, with TFDi Design presenting the first look we would see of the MD-11. Developers such as GotFriends and SimWorks Studios were in attendance as well.
FSExpo’s 2025 roster is looking stacked as well, with staple attendees such as WINWING, iniBuilds, and Navigraph in attendance, as well as SayIntentions.ai, Parallel 42, Thrustmaster, Meridian GMT, and many, many more. Of course, from the simulators we fly in will be attending with X-Plane commanding a large footprint. If it’s first looks and product showcases you’re after, FSExpo will provide that in droves.
Networking and Community
While we all enjoy a good solo, I believe that flight sim is better with friends. Online communities (such as the FSNews Discord!) are excellent ways to meet people and organize group flights, but the fast connections that we make in person are forged for life. I talk to people I met at FSExpo last year on a daily basis. Some fly only in-sim and some in real life as well – but all of them are gigantic aviation enthusiasts.
If you’re looking to get more involved in the industry, FSExpo is an excellent place to form professional connections as well. With the number of industry members in attendance, it’s impossible not to bump shoulders with a recognizable name, affording ample networking opportunities.
Travel Opportunities
While the show floor may be the main event, FSExpo also presents a prime opportunity to see a part of the country or the world you may not otherwise have seen – and, with their guided activities, get exclusive tours for an up-close perspective. Last year, I particularly enjoyed the guided tour of Las Vegas’ Mob Museum, not to mention the incredible Las Vegas Air Traffic Control tour.
At this year’s Expo in Providence, Rhode Island, the ATC tours are back, accompanied by new Providence International Airport Airside tours that are open to non-US citizens as well. If those don’t mesh with your schedule, there’s a riverboat tour, comedy bus tour, and more. All of these are excellent ways to experience a little of the local area. With discounted hotel rates and deals on travel as well, consider an extra day or two to walk around the city and take in the sights.
In summary, then, FSExpo just might be an essential experience for flight sim enthusiasts of all experience levels. I had a blast last year, and I am sure I will again this year. If you see the FSNews crew on the show floor, be sure to say hi! And be sure to stay tuned right here for our live coverage of all the most exciting news to come out of FSExpo itself.
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