Hi everyone!

I used to learn how to fly the 738 Zibo in X-Plane, then I was forced to switch on Airbus when 2020 came out with the A32NX since there was no decent Boeing at that time, then switched to the PMDG 737 again when it came out.

I always preferred flying Boeing because I actually have the feeling to be a pilot, not an engineer. I think it is due to the lack of fly-by-wire systems in Boeing planes. Airbuses are too "easy" to fly in a way.

Now, with 2024, we will get the Max, the 747 and the C-17, but a LOT of very qualitative Airbuses : A320, A321, A310, A330, the Beluga and the A400M!

Historically, flying Airbus or Boeing was mostly about personal preferences but I begin to think it will be smarter to switch again to Airbus because of all the diversity of missions that will be instantly available with those default aircrafts.

I know I have not enough time to master both Boeing and Airbus so I will have to make a choice. Although, I don't know about the C-17 and the A-400M, they seem to have fairly different systems and overlays than their liner counterparts.

What are your thoughts about it?

 

Edited November 7, 20241 yr by Noooch

Fly em all and master the one that appeals to you. 
 

I have my fun in all aircraft but the serious flights I stick to my airbuses and occasionally the 777. The only 737 that interests me is the -400.

Edited November 7, 20241 yr by rick celik

You can learn to fly both… I started with PMDG’s various 737s in FSX and later P3D. Then with MSFS took up the FBW A320 and learned it. It can be done. And if you create a flowchart/cheat sheet/checklist of sorts for yourself to remember the differences so it’s easy to switch back and forth.

Sounds like you have the Boeing down, learn the Airbus, with occasional flights in the Boeing to not forget and you will be fine!

12 minutes ago, Los said:

create a flowchart/cheat sheet/checklist of sorts for yourself

This!

I do this for ALL new airplanes I (learn to) fly. I get to know them and take notes of everything I do. After a few days I end up with a list with only the mandatory step (in chronological order) I have to take to fly from A to B (cold and dark to cold and dark). Usually by the time I finished creating that list I do not need it anymore.

Not only does this really help me to learn how to fly the aircraft a lot quicker, it also helps me tremendously whenever I get back to that aircraft after not flying it for a longer period.

Edited November 7, 20241 yr by mistolip

I fly a diversity of study level aircraft even going to different platforms. Requires me to think more keeping my senior mind active. 

I spend more time typing notes and procedures than I do flying. I like to learn as much as possible about the model.

The only airliner I've flown is PMDG's 737 and I'm tempted to learn an Airbus. I was going to buy the Fenix but will now wait until 2024 is released to see what that brings.

 

A bit off topic but ATR (Airbus-like turboprop) still has many things to offer in MSFS 2024

I got the Fenix A 320 when it first was released, many hours flying it. When PMDG released the 737, I got the 737-600 and then the 800, and then the 777.  I almost always return to the 737-800. To me it is like flying a real aircraft versus sitting there and  watching the A 320 fly itself. 

Edited November 7, 20241 yr by Bobsk8

The simplest way to feel involved when flying any airliner is to disconnect both the AP and AT. If you're feeling confident, turn off the Flight Directors as well.

If you want a challenge, have a random failure or two kick-in. All the best payware quality airliners have plenty of faults to choose from. That will stop you from 'sitting there watching the aircraft fly itself'.

When I eventually move over to MSFS2024, I will be flying Airbuses, Boeings, Avro RJs, bugsmashers, and even the occasional egg beater.

Personally I prefer the Airbus way of flying. Simply command a pitch and attitude and watch her go. The constant trimming in the Boeings especially since there is no real force feedback at your home desk, is annoying as hell.

I like both, but Airbus is for me also more watching the flying and make adjustments when Boeing gives the feeling of doing more on the job. Have to say that A300/310 gives the same satisfaction.

I also have say I am not fond of seeing all screen cockpits.

I am bit nostalgic with this. A350/787/A220/MAX. I like seeing them, but I feel more detached from airplane flying in those cockpits somewhat.

17 minutes ago, F737MAX said:

The simplest way to feel involved when flying any airliner is to disconnect both the AP and AT. If you're feeling confident, turn off the Flight Directors as

I think I'm mimicking RW pilots somewhat as I hand fly Boeings to 10K feet then go AP/AT.  For the FBW320nx I often engage AP as soon as able, but that is just a habit so I thank myself right now for reminding me I can hand fly it as well 🙃.

A hybrid approach to help keep your head in the sim is to fly for score as a basis for staying on top of the different aspects of the total flight from startup to shut down.  For that I use both A Pilot's Life and Self Loading Cargo which both have very decent scoring components.  Self Loading Cargo is a masterpiece of integration with MSFS and user interface the dev is obviously very bright and creative.  Still has more stuff to come which apparently is in the works.

I always fly Boeings as there's just something about Airbus cockpits that brings back the trauma of owning British Leyland cars of the early eighties...

https://images.app.goo.gl/y2yitYerpHj2kmNP6

I will choose the cheapest... 

If a free upgared is offered for one and not for the other, I'll go the one for free... If all charge, I might stay with default only, or if it's upgrade price is no more than €15 then opt for it...

I am seing MSFS 2024 pretty much like a game I'll play from time to time just to feel admired by it's scenery, and some features of what is modeled in terms of aircraft types, systems, ATC and weather, and hopefully other features like some missions... 

I intend to spend the minimum ever in addons for MSFS 2024... Eventually not a single addon, and profit all I can from what comes with the base Standard edition, or any free addons I may find interesting...

OFC will gladly migrate the PMDG 777, 737 and DC-6, as well as the FENIX, but if they ask no more than €15, and always opting fro the cheapest.

 

Edited November 7, 20241 yr by jcomm