Getting Started: How to Land on Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024
If you’re new to Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 and looking for tips to help you master the art of landing, you’ve come to the right place! In our previous video, we covered the takeoff. Now, let’s focus on a crucial task all virtual pilots must learn to handle: the landing.
Before Landing: Preparation and Approach
We are in flight, on approach to Paris-Le Bourget Airport. Once we locate the airport, we must properly align our aircraft with the runway.
Approach fundamentals:
- Maintain constant speed: Your goal is to stabilize the aircraft with the nose tilted slightly downward while on the glide path. However, your speed must be low enough so you can brake effectively after landing.
- Reduce speed: Pull back on the throttle while keeping the nose of the aircraft aligned with the horizon. As speed decreases, gradually lower the nose of the aircraft.
- Use flaps: Flaps enable the aircraft to maintain lift even at low speeds. However, they should not be used as brakes, since their deployment is limited by speed. If you are flying too high or too fast, reduce speed while keeping the aircraft level before you lower the flaps.
PAPI lights: Your visual guide
The PAPI (Precision Approach Path Indicator) lights located near the runway are your best guides for a successful approach.
- Red: Too low
- White: Too high
- Ideal: Two red lights and two white lights (or one red and one white in a two-light system).
The typical approach speed of a small aircraft is between 70 and 80 knots with a descent rate of -350 to -400 ft/min.
Landing: Mastering the Flare
As you approach the runway, make slight adjustments to stay on the right glide path. Just before touchdown, you need to perform a flare.
What is a flare?
A flare is the transition from final approach to touchdown. This is how you do it:
- Throttle down: Gradually decrease power to slow the plane down.
- Lift nose slightly: This will slow the descent rate and enable a smooth touchdown on the main landing gear (rear wheels).
- Alignment: Use the rudder to stay centered on the runway.
- Braking: Once on the ground, apply the brakes to bring the aircraft to a full stop.
And there you are—you’ve landed!
Advice for Beginners
Landing may seem daunting at first, but it’s easier in a light aircraft without retractable landing gear. Take time to practice. Once you feel ready, try landing larger planes.
Please let us know what you would like to learn in upcoming videos. In the meantime, fly safely and have fun on Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024!
Bonus: Want a Challenge?
Test your skills by landing in harsh weather conditions or on shorter runways. The possibilities are endless.