Fenix Simulations has officially rolled out compatibility for their Airbus A320 with Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024. The latest update, version 2.3.0.524, is available for free to all existing customers via the Fenix Installer. But before you get too excited, there’s a little fine print to go over—this is a first step, not the finish line.
A Rebuilt Aircraft for MSFS 2024
Fenix hasn’t simply ported over the MSFS 2020 version of the A320; the package has been rebuilt using the MSFS 2024 SDK. This means the aircraft is taking advantage of the new platform’s features, at least in a limited way for now. The team has their eyes on fully integrating the modular SimObject system and creating an “enhanced” walk-around mode, though these features will be tackled once they’ve spent more time with the new simulator.
This cautious approach means that while you can fly the A320 in MSFS 2024, it’s not yet considered a fully polished experience. Fenix has even gone as far as to label the update “experimental,” and they’re clear that this isn’t an officially advertised feature yet.
Key Features and Improvements
The update doesn’t just focus on MSFS 2024 compatibility. There’s a suite of improvements and fixes for both the 2020 and 2024 versions of the aircraft. Highlights include:
- 4x SimRate Support (Experimental): Now you can speed up those long-haul flights. It’s still in testing, so expect some rough edges.
- Fuel Flow Rework: Enhanced accuracy for fuel predictions, giving you more reliable EFOB data.
- Fly-By-Wire Adjustments: Tweaks to the flight model offer a more weighted, inertia-driven feel during manual flying. Rotation and flare dynamics remain unchanged.
- Cabin Environment Simulation: This is where things get intricate. The update includes new simulations for passenger-generated heat, cabin insulation, and external temperature effects. Leave the doors open in extreme climates, and you’ll notice the cabin temperature struggle to keep up.
Known Issues in MSFS 2024
As with any new integration, there are quirks to be aware of. Here’s a rundown of some current issues specific to MSFS 2024:
- Lights are too dim during the day.
- Some sounds may disappear randomly (a known issue in MSFS 2024).
- Liveries installed via the livery manager lack thumbnails.
- The cockpit EFB can be unresponsive, requiring multiple clicks at times.
- Visual details like texture maps and cockpit display reflectivity may be inconsistent.
Fenix is upfront about these limitations, reminding users that this is a work in progress. They’ve also noted that the update is experimental and, at this time, they will not be processing support tickets for MSFS 2024-specific issues.
Avionics and Systems
- Added experimental support for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, as well as addressing 2024-specific changes required in systems code
- Added 4x sim rate (experimental for now, let us know if you run into any issues with it)
- Rewrote EFOB (and general fuel flow prediction) computation/math
- Added new granular cruise/climb/des fuel flow
- Replumbed all requests pertaining to fuel flow data
- Attempted fly-by-wire oscillation fix for all users
- Optimised fly-by-wire CPU usage
- Gently retuned fly-by-wire normal law “feel” for slightly more inertia/weighting – flare/rotation is unaffected
- Rebuilt general pneumatic airmass temperature simulation through the aircraft
- Tuned AP roll
- Improved wing flex on lower performing systems
- Improved PFD colours and grey
- Refactored some internal systems in preparation for state saving
- Fixed A319 IAE not being able to enter managed speed in certain cases
- Fixed outer to inner tank valve appearing on non-jet pump config aircraft
- Fixed SD CRUISE vibration values blinking instead of pulsing
- Fixed OIL QTY displaying incorrect value when failed
- Fixed incorrect indications on F/CTL page during failures
- Fixed double text on waypoint/symbol names
- Fixed ND TCAS range markings showing at 10 NM
- Fixed ROSE ND range rings showing when in TCAS range
- Fixed being unable to enter A321 MZFW as the limit was too low
Art and Sound
- Added experimental support for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024
- Added MSFS 2024 native WORKING WIPERS 🚨😲☔ (first airliner with ‘working’ wipers in 2020, and again in 2024)
- Developed new glass material to more accurately show the double flash of the SL strobes
- Added collision to stairs to support 2024 walkaround
- Fixed chart/reading light always showing as on from external view
- Fixed GPU clipping with GSX tug
- Fixed ISIS missing ATT and BARO text
- Fixed open windows blocking EFB interactions
- Fixed visual issues with ISIS light detector
- Fixed slight kink on both wings with new wingflex
- Fixed aircraft rolling out of the hangar
- Fixed missing FAP decal from exterior
- Fixed fastener type on cockpit windows
- Fixed issue with LCD simulation causing colour offsets at some brightness levels
EFB
- Added a delay before connecting the GPU on arrival
- Added an option to disable the ambient display sensor for users who pop out displays
- Improved logging around departure performance calculation
- Improved memory usage
- Fixed changing units during GSX refuelling loading an incorrect fuel amount
- Fixed MACTOW mismatch on final load sheet when using “fast” or “real-time” load methods
- Fixed situation causing ACT empty tank weights to not be set when loading in
- Fixed display of OFP formats that don’t have bookmarks (like SWA)
- Fixed map not showing for non-Navigraph users
Installer
- Added support for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024
- Added support for installing into multiple simulators, including correct handling of dependencies
- Added automatic camera preset file copying between MSFS 2020 and MSFS 2024 (your saved camera views should be there when you first load in)
Livery Manager
- Added support for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024
- Fixed some typos in country names
