PMDG recently posted an update on its forum regarding the development status of the 777F, 737, and 747 Classic aircraft. It also provided additional details about the MSFS2024 transition.
MSFS2024 Transition Problems
PMDG prepared for both worst-case and best-case scenarios, hoping that Microsoft wouldn’t rush the simulator’s release and would include the necessary development tools from the beginning. However, as mentioned in this article, Microsoft once again neglected to include these tools, as it did in MSFS2020. Randazzo revealed that his worst-case plan also included a backup plan, emphasizing that they do their best to work with the resources they currently have.
PMDG 777F
A new beta build has been released, which includes several small fixes, the completed simulation of the cargo deck lighting system, operational controls for the main deck cargo door, safety nets, and other fun features, as stated by Randazzo. These improvements are located within the plane’s main deck cargo area. Additionally, GSX integration has been enhanced, allowing it to control the doors and cargo loading process for users.
Due to the issues related to the new MSFS2024, Randazzo has decided that the 777F will only be released for MSFS2020 at this time. While a specific release date has not been set, they mentioned that they expect to conduct one more beta cycle next week, with a release to follow.
The transition of the 777F to MSFS2024 will differ from that of other planes. PMDG plans to migrate to MSFS2024 when possible, but they are unsure how to manage the upgrade regarding costs for customers due to the close timing of the 777F release for MSFS2020 and the subsequent MSFS2024 variant. There are also some marketplace details still being evaluated, and they will provide a solution that is “respectful of the trust you put in them” once they have a comprehensive understanding of the situation.
PMDG 747 Development Update
They announced that the code-side preparation for the 747-400 is in an advanced state and that the code is currently running in MSFS2020. They are beginning to review the documentation in MSFS2024 to implement the necessary changes.
The 747-100, which will serve as the initial base for the 747-200 and 747SP versions, is taking shape nicely. Randazzo mentioned that their 747-100 will feature the complex CIVA triple INS system, and users will have the option to receive assistance from Henning, a virtual character who previously helped many users with the DC6 from PMDG. This means you will only need to fetch a SimBrief flight plan, which will be automatically entered and configured in the INS system – unlike in real life – allowing you to simply activate the autopilot as you would in newer generation aircraft.
However, if users choose to manage the INS system themselves, Henning will only handle normal flight engineer’s duties. With this, PMDG aims to lower the entry barrier for users who may be unsure about learning how to operate the INS system.
Additionally, you will also have the option to use a later iteration of the 747-100 fitted with the Honeywell FMS. This configuration is quite standard for most 747-100s, as the Honeywell FMS became common on the 747 classic fleet early in its service life. The Honeywell FMS functions similarly to other flight management systems, allowing users to become comfortable with it much faster than with the complex INS.
In the screenshots provided by Randazzo, we can observe the details related to size, scale, and complexity, as well as view the Honeywell FMS and the INS system. The images do not display any texturing or surface qualities, as they are taken from the modeling software used by PMDG.
Closing Notes
If you would like to learn more about PMDG and their ongoing projects, be sure to read our previous article on their development update here. FSNews will keep you updated on further PMDG updates and releases.
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