PMDG’s long-awaited Boeing 777-200ER for Microsoft Flight Simulator has just moved a step closer to release. In a new development update posted this week, Robert Randazzo offered a refined release window for the aircraft and shared some behind-the-scenes insights from a full-scale validation flight test—a rigorous simulation session that tested the 777 to near real-world standards.
According to Randazzo, PMDG now expects to release the 777-200ER between Tuesday, April 29, and Thursday, May 1, 2025. This applies to both MSFS 2020 and MSFS 2024 versions. The aircraft will be distributed exclusively through PMDG.com at launch, with a Marketplace release to follow sometime later—a delay typical of the platform’s approval process.
This will be PMDG’s first native MSFS 2024 release. Buyers will receive access to both sim versions via the PMDG Operations Center, with no separate purchases required.
The 777-200ER will ship as a complete package, featuring three distinct engine options—Pratt & Whitney, Rolls-Royce, and General Electric—each with their own detailed engine models, sound packages, and performance profiles. Xbox users will also be able to access the aircraft via the Marketplace once it’s approved, along with associated liveries.
In a glimpse into PMDG’s internal QA process, Randazzo shared that he personally flew the 777-200ER through a Heavy Maintenance Validation Test Flight—a process normally performed after real-world aircraft undergo extensive maintenance. The simulated flight consisted of over 90 minutes of system checks followed by nearly five hours of in-air testing, replicating real-life procedures down to the geographic location and sequencing.
Randazzo reported that nearly all real-world procedures could be executed accurately within the sim—highlighting the depth of PMDG’s simulation. “It is important to recognize just what a statement it makes about the PMDG 777,” he wrote, “that you can perform such a test… and you will get the correct results for the airplane.”
The test resulted in six squawks (bugs), half of which have already been resolved. Randazzo is also deciding what to do with the over six hours of video footage recorded during the flight—a potential goldmine for those who want to explore the technical side of study-level aircraft.
Now that the 200ER is nearly ready, PMDG is shifting focus to the 777F (Freighter) and 777-300ER, both of which are being reworked for MSFS 2024. This process involves significant rebuilding to adapt to differences between the two simulator platforms. The 777F is expected in mid-to-late May, with the -300ER following 10–14 days later.
As before, those who already purchased these aircraft for MSFS 2020 will receive the MSFS 2024 versions for free via the PMDG Operations Center. However, Randazzo notes that Marketplace integration across sim versions is still being figured out, and details from Microsoft are not yet final.
DC-6: “Soon™”
PMDG’s Douglas DC-6 is also nearing completion for MSFS 2024 compatibility, with minor cosmetic improvements included in the upgrade. While the work is said to be progressing well, no release window has been shared beyond a very developer-favorite “soon™.”
Stay tuned—we’ll update you the moment the PMDG 777-200ER becomes available!
