PMDG faces last minute struggles with the 737 for MSFS, release date put on hold

A troubling update is out today from PMDG’s boss Robert Randazzo. Speaking on the official PMDG forum, Robert expressed his concerns about the current stage of the development of the highly-anticipated Boeing 737 for MSFS, the necessary changes that need to be made on platform for the product to be released, and some broader worries about the persistent introduction of new issues with every new Sim Update.

The 737 is certainly the most awaited aircraft for Microsoft Flight Simulator at this point, so naturally everyone is eager to know more about an eventual release date, specially considering that a release this year was a likely not too long ago (although current expectations, as of yesterday, pointed to earlier 2022).

Robert Randazzo arrived today to completely put to shambles that expectation: MSFS needs to get some changes and fixes without which the 737 can’t be released. And PMDG doesn’t know when, or if, these changes will be implemented by Asobo, so they will refrain from giving any release date expectations for now. Hold your breath!

PMDG 737 MSFS 1
The 737 will continue grounded for the foreseeable future.

Furthermore, Sim Update 7 brought some new issues for developers, who are facing stability problems and long build-up times. This also brings delays to the development process, and Robert Randazzo again expressed his concerns about “continued disruptions to forward progress because of problems introduced by updates in this manner“.

It’s an odd turn of events, when everything appeared to be going so well. PMDG was even announced as an official MSFS partner just a few weeks ago, which would indicate that both teams are actively working together to tackle any hurdles that show up on the road.

But there’s not just bad news. The 737 development continues to move along, albeit slowly at this point. There are some “fantastic areas of progress“, such as with the flight model, cockpit and model animations. See below, for example, the reflection of the MCP LEDs on the panel cover. These and other convincing lighting plays will be seen across many surfaces, which should result in a very authentic and immersive overall environment in the flight deck.

PMDG 737 MSFS MCP reflections

The long statement from Robert Randazzo is available from PMDG’s forums, and also includes other details about the DC-6 and P3D development.

While this is a bit worrying and unexpected, we are confident that PMDG and Asobo will continue to work together and fix any existing issues. When the 737 finally comes out, whenever it may be, it will certainly be a real treat for everyone and well worth the wait. Until then, we will keep you posted on any further updates!