Microsoft Releases Sim Update 2 for Flight Simulator 2024

On May 15, 2025, Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 received its second major update, Sim Update 2 (version 1.4.20.0), introducing a wide array of improvements across the platform. This update addresses various aspects of the simulator, including stability, graphics, user interface, and mission-specific features.

Key Highlights of Sim Update 2:

• Stability and Performance: Resolved issues causing crashes during launch, particularly those related to invalid EXE.xml files. Enhanced performance when adjusting graphical or photogrammetry settings, ensuring smoother transitions.
• Graphics and Visuals: Fixed artifacts such as water self-shadow anomalies when ray-traced shadows are enabled. Improved the display of weather icons and loading popups when changing settings, contributing to a more immersive experience.
• User Interface Enhancements: Corrected the display of friends on the free flight world map, ensuring accurate session information. Addressed issues with microphone detection outside group sessions, refining communication functionalities.
• Mission and Gameplay Updates: Introduced the ability to display fauna heat maps on the Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) during World Photographer missions, enhancing mission interactivity. Adjusted heading value formats for clarity and fixed display issues in various resolutions.

Upcoming Developments:

Looking ahead, the beta for Sim Update 3 is scheduled to commence on May 16, 2025. Additionally, preparations are underway for the Sim Update 16 beta for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020, with more information to be released soon.

Recommendations:

PC users, especially those with NVIDIA GPUs, are advised to update to the latest GeForce Game Ready Driver (version 576.40) to ensure optimal performance and stability. Be aware of a known issue where selecting 3x or 4x DLSS Frame Generation may lead to application instability; a fix is currently in progress.

For a comprehensive list of changes and detailed release notes, visit the official Microsoft Flight Simulator website: (Microsoft Flight Simulator)