After four years in development, FlyByWire Simulations has officially launched its A380X for Microsoft Flight Simulator—and it’s completely free! The Airbus A380, known as the world’s largest passenger jet, features a full-length double-deck design and typically seats 545 passengers, allowing it to fly routes from short hops to ultra-long-haul journeys. Due to its immense size, wingspan, and weight, the A380 is somewhat limited in terms of airports it can visit, although most major international hubs are equipped to handle it.
FlyByWire Simulations has released the A380X in open-beta, meaning some systems and features are currently inactive (INOP) or still need refinement. A complete list of these INOP features is available on the FlyByWire Simulations documentation page. Despite some unfinished features, the aircraft is ready for online flights on networks like VATSIM, supporting various approach types, holds, and other advanced functionalities.
The A380X includes full SimBrief integration, limited GSX compatibility (which the team plans to expand soon), and several exciting features. Brake to Vacate is fully functional, as well as Runway Overrun Warning/Protection (ROW/ROP). The aircraft also has an Onboard Airport Navigation System, GPWS, terrain display, and more, with animations unique to the A380.
FlyPadOS v3 is part of this release, enabling users to calibrate the throttle, manage payload, and refuel. While a takeoff calculator isn’t included at launch, SimBrief data can be used to help with takeoff planning. Initially, only the house livery is available, but additional liveries are expected to appear on sites like FS.to soon.
Although the A380X is freeware, FlyByWire Simulations relies on community donations to fund its infrastructure and participate in events like FSWeekend and FlightSimExpo. You can support them via their Open Collective page.