It’s been a little over two months since TFDi Design promised a trifecta of updates for its MD-11: the long-awaited Extended Simulation package, a significant art refresh, and support for both Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 and Xbox. That deadline has officially slipped, but the good news is that the work is very far along, and we now have a clear look at what’s coming.
A new look outside (and inside)
TFDi explain in this latest update that the MD-11’s exterior has been rebuilt from scratch. According to the developers, this is a full remodel and retexture designed to meet today’s visual standards. Animations are fixed, missing parts added, and finer details like service ports with legible labels, mechanical flap/slat internals, rivets, and dirt are now modeled. The result should be an aircraft that feels more authentic when viewed up close.
The art team didn’t stop at the fuselage. The cabin has also been reworked with new models and textures, plus a few immersion extras like rain effects on the windows. Some surprises are being held back for release, but the screenshots already show a noticeable leap in fidelity.
In the cockpit, TFDi says they’re mostly happy with what’s there but are filling in a few gaps. Expect working oxygen test buttons, a manual landing gear handle, and even openable cockpit windows.
Oh, and the Pratt & Whitney engines are finally here. TFDi has re-engineered the throttle control system and engine simulation for proper PW behavior, which will ship alongside the art update.
Extended Simulation: failures, maintenance, and service
The other half of this update is the Extended Simulation package. TFDi calls it “nearly complete,” with more than 160 failure scenarios already implemented. But the point isn’t just breaking things — there’s a whole new maintenance and inspection process. Simmers will be able to perform checks, service items like fire bottles and oil, and review a unique maintenance log for each airframe.
System refinements
The code team has also been busy addressing some long-standing quirks. Highlights include:
- smoother and more consistent PROF descents
- improved step climb logic with multiple top-of-climb/descent points
- support for ATO waypoints
- new custom oil, vibration, and EGT simulation
- numerous fixes across displays and autoflight
These improvements are set to roll out alongside the Extended Simulation package and art update.
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 and Xbox
TFDi is careful to clarify that MSFS 2024 support isn’t a straight port. Once the MSFS 2020 version is locked down, the team plans to split the model, adapt textures to the new streaming system, and explore native MSFS 2024 features. Xbox players won’t be left out either, as TFDi anticipates a simultaneous release on MSFS Xbox, FS2024 PC, and FS2024 Xbox.
The timeline has slipped beyond the originally promised 60 days, but TFDi says the delay is only by a few weeks. No new release date is being committed, but they’re confident that the MD-11 is close to crossing the finish line.
