When Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 was announced for PlayStation 5 a few weeks ago, two unexpected aircraft were also unveiled: the Boom XB-1 and the Northrop T-38 Talon. At the time, no details were provided. That changed this week during the October Developer Stream, where the MSFS team broke down what simmers can expect from these two supersonic additions.
Boom XB-1: a free Famous Flyer and a showcase of new tech
The developers confirmed that the Boom XB-1 will be released as Famous Flyer 14 and, notably, will be available for free. Developed by FlightFX with systems and avionics support from Working Title, the aircraft is being built in close collaboration with Boom’s own engineering team.
According to the developers, this partnership has given them access to reference data and software insights from the real aircraft, helping to shape the XB-1’s unique systems. The aircraft doesn’t use fly-by-wire — it’s purely mechanical — and the simulator version replicates that through a “Q-feel” control system that increases stick travel at high speed to mimic aerodynamic forces.
The XB-1 will also feature a detailed fuel transfer system to manage its shifting center of gravity at supersonic speeds, realistic pitch and roll dampers, and a nose-mounted camera for runway visibility on approach. The real aircraft has no flaps or exterior lighting, and the simulator version reflects those constraints to preserve authenticity.
On the avionics side, Working Title revealed that the XB-1 introduces new Avidyne IFD 540/550 units, alongside Boom’s custom multifunction display and flight director logic. These avionics will also become Sim Attachments in Sim Update 5, opening the door for other developers to integrate them into future aircraft.
T-38 Talon: another iconic supersonic jet joins the fleet
The Northrop T-38 Talon, first teased as part of the Playstation preorder bonus, was confirmed during the stream as Famous Flyer 13, developed by Blackbird Simulations. It represents one of the most recognizable supersonic trainers ever built and will be available to all players via the Marketplace, not just PS5 users.
The team said the aircraft features highly accurate flight dynamics based on real-world performance data, along with the characteristic engine and aerodynamic behavior that made the T-38 such a demanding trainer. The developers also confirmed it will include multiple liveries and training configurations used across decades of USAF and NASA operations.
A new era of speed in Microsoft Flight Simulator
With the Boom XB-1 and T-38 Talon, Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 is stepping deeper into the world of supersonic flight, something that’s been largely unexplored in the platform until now. Together, these aircraft represent two sides of aviation innovation: one looking forward to the next generation of sustainable high-speed travel, and the other honoring the jet that trained generations of pilots and astronauts.
