The company does not use Microsoft Flight Simulator exactly as is; rather, it uses the technology as a starting point.

Regardless of whether you consider yourself an ace pilot or just want to crash spectacularly into the Eiffel Tower, the latest version of Microsoft’s long-running flight simulator series is a real marvel. In response to the latter, Microsoft is collaborating with Boeing to use this high-precision simulation in a virtual training program for novice pilots. According to a Boeing press release, the Virtual Airplane Procedures Trainer program was announced Thursday at the European Aviation Training Summit in Portugal. The new program uses Microsoft Azure and Microsoft Flight Simulator to provide pilots and flight training teams with engaging, accessible, and customizable tools that improve learning and preparedness.

The program does not replace physical flight simulators but reduces the time needed to become familiar with them. It’s important to note that this is not Microsoft Flight Simulator itself, but rather a virtual trainer that uses the simulator to a certain extent. A video on Boeing’s website provides an overview and seems to be primarily curriculum-driven, guiding aspiring pilots in the right direction. However, it is somewhat surreal to see a game primarily aimed at older geeks in an elegant corporate training video.

At the summit, Microsoft’s vice president of manufacturing and mobility, Dayan Rodriguez, made a stunningly soporific statement, saying that Microsoft is committed to accelerating learning and optimizing pilot confidence with a focus on safety. In collaboration with Boeing, Microsoft is advancing the future of aviation by empowering people to play a central role in flight.

However, it’s hard to believe that Boeing entered into such an agreement, but it’s official. If Microsoft Flight Simulator can achieve such results, it really does have a solid foundation.

Source: PCGamer, Boeing MediaRoom, Boeing Services