Sky Blue Radio

UPS Officially Retires the MD-11: The End of a Tri-Jet Era in Brown

Posted by skyblueradio — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 18:55 GMT

UPS has officially retired its MD-11 fleet, accelerating modernization plans and closing the book on a legendary tri-jet freighter era in cargo aviation. via: https://skyblueradio.com/ups-retires-md-11-fleet/

FAA Locks In Permanent Helicopter Restrictions Around Reagan National (DCA) After 2025 Midair Collis

Posted by skyblueradio — Mon, 26 Jan 2026 20:30 GMT

The FAA has finalized permanent helicopter and powered-lift restrictions near Reagan National Airport (DCA), reducing collision risk and separating mixed traffic near active runways. via: https://skyblueradio.com/faa-permanent-helicopter-restrictions-reagan-national-dca/

FlyTampa Las Vegas v3.1 Patch now out.

Posted by skyblueradio — Sun, 25 Jan 2026 13:49 GMT

FlyTampa has released version 3.1 of their Harry Reid International Airport (KLAS) + Las Vegas City scenery for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, bringing a fast-follow fix pack after user feedback from the big V3 release. https://skyblueradio.com/flytampa-las-vegas-v3-1-patch-out-now-for-msfs-2024/

X-Plane 12.4.0 Beta 3 Released: A330 Tweaks, ATIS Fixes, VR Improvements + More

Posted by skyblueradio — Thu, 22 Jan 2026 03:26 GMT

X-Plane 12.4.0 Beta 3 is out now, bringing Airbus A330 refinements, ATIS fixes, VR improvements, and stability updates. Here's what simmers need to know. via: https://skyblueradio.com/x-plane-12-4-0-beta-3-released/

MSFS 2024 Sim Update 5: "Coming Soon"... and the Community Is Already in Full Debate Mode

Posted by skyblueradio — Mon, 19 Jan 2026 03:09 GMT

MSFS 2024 Sim Update 5 is coming soon, with a public beta expected shortly. Simmers are split: stability fixes first or more content now? via: https://skyblueradio.com/msfs-2024-sim-update-5-public-beta-coming-soon/

Orbx Releases Boris Audio Works PMDG 737NG Sound Set for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024

Posted by skyblueradio — Sat, 17 Jan 2026 23:18 GMT

If you've ever flown the PMDG 737 in a busy airport environment and thought, "This aircraft deserves even more sonic personality," Orbx just dropped something that'll make your speakers sit up straight. Orbx has released the Boris Audio Works PMDG 737NG Sound Set for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, delivering a [...] via: https://skyblueradio.com/orbx-releases-boris-audio-works-pmdg-737ng-sound-set-for-microsoft-flight-simulator-2024/

The Future of Soldier Simulation Has Arrived: Lockheed Martin Introduces Prepar3D Fuse Powered by U

Posted by skyblueradio — Fri, 16 Jan 2026 02:41 GMT

Lockheed Martin, Blackshark.ai, and Unreal Engine unveil Prepar3D Fuse, a next-gen AI-driven military simulation platform featuring full-earth terrain, realistic forces behavior, and advanced training capabilities. via: https://skyblueradio.com/prepar3d-fuse-ai-military-simulation-unreal-engine-5/

Cli4D Designs brings animated waterfalls to Iceland in MSFS 2024

Posted by skyblueradio — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 01:20 GMT

If you've ever crept along an Icelandic canyon at "low and slow" speed only to spot a legendary waterfall... standing perfectly still like it got turned into a wallpaper, you're not alone. While Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 has improved terrain generation in big ways, moving water can still look oddly [...] via: https://skyblueradio.com/cli4d-designs-brings-animated-waterfalls-to-iceland-in-msfs-2024/

Allegiant to Buy Sun Country in $1.5B Deal, Creating a Bigger Leisure Airline (and a Bigger Question

Posted by skyblueradio — Mon, 12 Jan 2026 02:11 GMT

Two of America's most vacation-minded airlines are planning to share the same beach towel. Allegiant Travel Company announced today (Jan. 11, 2026) that it will acquire Sun Country Airlines in a cash-and-stock deal valued at about $1.5 billion, including Sun Country's net debt. If the deal closes as planned, it would create a larger, leisure-focused carrier with an expanded network and a combined fleet of about 195 aircraft, plus an eye toward cost savings that both airlines say can add up fast. The deal terms (what Sun Country shareholders get) Under the announced agreement, Sun Country shareholders would receive $4.10 in cash plus 0.1557 shares of Allegiant stock for each Sun Country share. That package values Sun Country at $18.89 per share, a 19.8% premium to Sun Country's prior closing price (Jan. 9, 2026). The companies project $140 million in annual synergies by the third year after closing, and Allegiant says the transaction should be immediately accretive to earnings. What the combined airline might look like Headquarters: Las Vegas, under the Allegiant parent company. Ownership split: Allegiant shareholders would own about 67% of the combined company; Sun Country shareholders about 33%. Leadership: Allegiant CEO Gregory Anderson is slated to become CEO of the combined company. Allegiant's Robert Neal would be President and CFO. Sun Country CEO Jude Bricker is expected to join the board. Operations: While the merger is pending, the airlines say day-to-day travel should feel... normal. Sun Country's customer-facing FAQ says travelers can book and fly "as usual" and that existing rewards will continue to be honored. Barron's also notes that both airlines would continue operating separately until they obtain a joint FAA operating certificate, which is a practical reminder that airline mergers are not "flip the switch" events. Why this merger is happening now The pitch is pretty straightforward: scale. Both Allegiant and Sun Country are built around leisure travel, and combining networks can make it easier to funnel passengers into more nonstop options and build schedule density. Reuters reported the combined business would broaden exposure to more domestic and international markets and bring a fleet around 195 aircraft under one roof. Axios frames the backdrop as a tough moment for budget carriers, pointing to rising costs and competition and suggesting the deal could become a notable early antitrust test for the current U.S. administration. What it could mean for travelers (the practical stuff) In the near term: likely very little changes for customers. Sun Country says booking and flying continues as normal and rewards will still work. In the medium term: the biggest "watch this space" items are usually: Route maps: overlapping routes sometimes get trimmed, but mergers can also add new connections once networks are coordinated. Fares and fees: low-cost carriers live and die by ancillaries (bags, seats, bundles). Pricing strategy tends to evolve after approvals. Fleet strategy: the merger presentation highlights synergies partly driven by scale efficiencies and fleet related improvements, which often show up as smoother utilization and, eventually, product tweaks. Timeline and hurdles The companies expect the deal to close in the second half of 2026, subject to regulatory and shareholder approvals. That's where the "big question mark" lives: regulators will decide whether this combination reduces competition on key routes or changes the bargain-fare landscape in a way they don't like. Axios notes the political and legal environment around airline deals has been active in recent years, with major transactions drawing heavy scrutiny. Sky Blue Radio take Think of this merger like two vacation playlists being combined into one: you might get more variety, but somebody's favorite track could get skipped. For flight simmers, too, this is real-world airline chess that often ends up shaping the liveries, routes, and schedules we see reflected in the sim ecosystem. For travelers, it's a developing story with real potential upside (more network reach) and real potential downside (less competition on certain city pairs). We'll keep an eye on the regulatory phase, the joint operating certificate timeline, and what the combined route map starts to look like once the paperwork turns into painted tails. The post Allegiant to Buy Sun Country in $1.5B Deal, Creating a Bigger Leisure Airline (and a Bigger Question Mark for Regulators) appeared first on Sky Blue Radio. via: https://skyblueradio.com/allegiant-acquires-sun-country-merger/

TFDi Design's MD-11 "Definitive Edition" Touches Down in MSFS 2024 on January 12

Posted by skyblueradio — Sat, 10 Jan 2026 18:41 GMT

The trijet that refuses to be forgotten is lining up on the runway again. TFDi Design has released an official trailer teasing the MD-11 "Definitive Edition", with the MSFS 2024-compatible version arriving Monday, January 12 (12JAN26). TFDi describes this as a high-fidelity refresh of its already deep MD-11 simulation, aimed at bringing a more polished visual package, expanded systems depth, and a longer list of "MD-11-isms" that fans of the aircraft know and love. What's included (and why MD-11 fans are grinning) According to TFDi's trailer and supporting coverage, the MSFS 2024 edition focuses on a mix of cockpit detail, systems depth, and interaction inside and out:

Highly detailed cockpit with customer options and differences between passenger and freighter configurations
Meticulously modeled exterior with an emphasis on mechanical detail, plus clickable doors and ground-service interactions (GPU/ASU)
Thorough systems and autoflight/FMS depth, including support for modern procedures like SIDs/STARs, holds, predictions, and ECON/CI-style planning
Custom flight behavior and classic MD-11 quirks, including dial-a-flap, control droop, windmilling, and engine options (Pratt & Whitney and General Electric)
Audio by Echo 19
Interactive cabin features: door controls, bins, shades, and more

Extended Simulation: when you want the MD-11 to bite back For pilots who like their checklists with a side of consequences, TFDi also highlights an Extended Simulation add-on that introduces working circuit breakers and over 230 possible failures. TFDi's own product page frames this package as an additional layer with operational failures and a dedicated failures menu, with circuit breaker functionality included as part of that expanded simulation scope. Pricing and packages TFDi sells the MD-11 in a modular setup:

Base Pack: $69.99 for Passenger or Freighter
Expansion (other variant): $9.99
Extended Simulation Pack: listed at $4.99 (often rounded to about $5 in coverage)

Some outlets also report a post-release price increase for new customers after the MSFS 2024 version goes live. Existing customers: "the update you've been waiting for" In the trailer copy, TFDi directly calls out that current owners should see the long-anticipated upgrades roll into this MSFS 2024 push, including the Pratt & Whitney engine option, art updates, and Extended Simulation progress, alongside Flight Simulator 2024 support. Watch here! The post TFDi Design's MD-11 "Definitive Edition" Touches Down in MSFS 2024 on January 12 appeared first on Sky Blue Radio. via: https://skyblueradio.com/tfdidesign-md11-msfs-2024-release-date/

SimBrief Outage Grounds Flight Planning Worldwide

Posted by skyblueradio — Wed, 7 Jan 2026 02:59 GMT

Virtual pilots, this one's a holding pattern you didn't file for. The popular flight planning platform SimBrief is currently experiencing a significant system-wide outage, bringing all SimBrief functions to a complete stop. From dispatch briefs to fuel calculations, the digital flight bag is firmly closed for now. According to SimBrief, teams are working diligently to restore services, but the recovery process may take some time. No specific ETA has been provided yet, so pilots should be prepared for delays and consider alternative planning tools in the meantime. SimBrief has issued an apology for the disruption and thanked users for their patience and understanding as engineers work behind the scenes to get everything airborne again. Sky Blue Radio will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as soon as more information becomes available. Until then... keep the coffee hot, the charts handy, and the runway in sight. The post SimBrief Outage Grounds Flight Planning Worldwide appeared first on Sky Blue Radio. via: https://skyblueradio.com/simbrief-outage-grounds-flight-planning-worldwide/

LevelUp 737NG v2 Takes Flight for X-Plane 12

Posted by skyblueradio — Wed, 7 Jan 2026 00:28 GMT

Flight simmers have fresh skies to explore as the LevelUp 737NG Series v2 has officially launched for X-Plane 12 with a sweeping visual and audio overhaul that brings new life to one of the community's favorite freeware airliners. The v2 update, now available for download, delivers a major refresh across the entire 737NG family - the -600 through -900ER variants - packed into a single, optimized package. Pilots will notice significantly updated 3D models and high-resolution 8K textures that give both exterior and cabin areas sharper detail and smoother surfaces compared to the original version. These enhancements take full advantage of X-Plane 12's modern rendering capabilities, elevating the classic narrowbody experience. Audio fidelity gets a serious boost, too, with an FMOD 2.0 soundset introducing deeper, more immersive engine and environmental audio. New effects include more authentic CFM56 engine tones, cabin ambience, and refined logic for actions like touchdown and bleed air flows - all designed to make each flight feel more alive and atmospheric than ever before. This release represents the Stage 1 update of the v2 project - focused on visuals and sounds - with future milestones expected to target cockpit refinements, expanded systems realism, and other enhancements that will continue to shape the LevelUp 737NG into a top-tier choice for virtual airliners. Whether you're lining up on the runway at Denver's 16R or cruising above the Rockies, the new LevelUp 737NG v2 invites X-Plane pilots to rediscover the joy of flying this classic jet with a fresh set of eyes and ears. Sky Blue Radio will keep you updated on more releases and community highlights from the flight sim world. The post LevelUp 737NG v2 Takes Flight for X-Plane 12 appeared first on Sky Blue Radio. via: https://skyblueradio.com/levelup-737ng-v2-takes-flight-for-x-plane-12/

Flight Sim Community Buzz: Content Creator Policy Sparks Debate in New YouTube Breakdown

Posted by skyblueradio — Wed, 7 Jan 2026 00:07 GMT

A fresh wave of discussion is rippling through the flight simulation community after a YouTube video dissected the FlightSim Studio "Content Creator Policy" and how developers respond to public criticism. The video When Developers Try to Silence Criticism: Flight Sim Studios "Content Creator Policy" Breakdown, released on YouTube, unpacks the controversial content rules and what they mean for creators, reviewers, and sim enthusiasts alike. The core of the debate centers on FlightSim Studio's official Content Creator Policy, which outlines strict guidelines about how fans can use the developer's intellectual property in videos, images, liveries, and other media. Under the policy, creators are allowed to make fan content only if it complies with rules about appropriateness, non-commercial intent, disclaimers, and, importantly, no derogatory use of FlightSim Studio IP or brand reputation. This has raised eyebrows among many in the flight sim space who worry these clauses could discourage honest critique or frank discussion. YouTube host and veteran sim reviewer A330 Driver, lending his voice backed by over 17 years of alpha and beta testing experience, brings his perspective to the policy breakdown. In the video, he and the host explore concerns that the policy could act as a deterrent against criticism, or even be used to push back on creators who share less than glowing opinions about products. The video frames this as part of a broader conversation about transparency, creator freedom, and how developers engage with community feedback. Flight sim content creation itself has ballooned in recent years, with hobbyist pilots and pro simmers alike turning flights and reviews into widely watched content on platforms like YouTube and Twitch. But that growth has also drawn fresh questions about ethics, sponsorship, and the relationship between developers and creators-especially when monetization, policy enforcement, or perceived "silencing" comes into play. Community reactions are already rolling in across forums and social platforms, with some simmers welcoming clearer content rules and others warning that overly tight restrictions could stifle frank reviews and honest dialog. Whether you're a casual simmer or a seasoned virtual captain, this discussion marks a key moment in how flight sim culture and creator ecosystems evolve together. Stay tuned to Sky Blue Radio for ongoing coverage of flight sim trends, community debates, and insights from around the virtual skies. The post Flight Sim Community Buzz: Content Creator Policy Sparks Debate in New YouTube Breakdown appeared first on Sky Blue Radio. via: https://skyblueradio.com/flightsim-studio-content-creator-policy-breakdown/

NVIDIA's DLSS 4.5 Takes Flight: What It Means for Flight Simulator Pilots

Posted by skyblueradio — Tue, 6 Jan 2026 23:29 GMT

Flight simulation has always lived at the crossroads of beauty and brute force. Vast landscapes, dense cities, glass cockpits glowing with data, and clouds that stretch to the horizon all ask the same question of your PC: can you keep up? At CES 2026, NVIDIA offered its latest answer with the announcement of DLSS 4.5, the newest evolution of its AI-powered upscaling technology. While the headlines focused on eye-watering performance numbers, flight sim pilots should pay close attention. This update has real implications for how Microsoft Flight Simulator looks, feels, and performs in the cockpit. What Is DLSS 4.5? DLSS, or Deep Learning Super Sampling, uses AI to render games at a lower resolution and then intelligently reconstruct a higher-quality image. The goal is simple: higher frame rates without sacrificing visual fidelity. With DLSS 4.5, NVIDIA introduced a new transformer-based AI model that improves how motion, detail, and edges are handled. In practical terms, that means: Sharper terrain and building edges Cleaner cockpit text and instruments Reduced shimmering and ghosting during motion Better image stability during panning and turns The update also expands Multi Frame Generation, allowing compatible GPUs to create multiple AI-generated frames between traditionally rendered ones. On upcoming RTX 50-series cards, NVIDIA claims performance gains of up to six times in supported scenarios. For flight simulation, where smoothness matters just as much as clarity, that's no small promise. Why Flight Simulator Pilots Should Care Microsoft Flight Simulator is famously demanding. Dense photogrammetry cities, complex aircraft systems, and real-time weather all compete for GPU and CPU resources. Even high-end systems can struggle, especially at higher resolutions or in VR. DLSS 4.5 directly targets some of the sim's long-standing pain points: Smoother Flight, Fewer Stutters Frame generation helps maintain fluid motion during low-altitude flight, approach phases, and external camera views, where performance dips are most noticeable. Cleaner Cockpits One of the biggest complaints with earlier DLSS versions was ghosting on glass cockpits and HUD elements. Early reports from simmers testing DLSS 4.5 through the NVIDIA App suggest noticeable improvements, with gauges and text appearing more stable and readable. Better VR Potential VR pilots may benefit the most. Reduced temporal artifacts and improved frame pacing can translate into a more comfortable and immersive experience, especially in complex aircraft. Is DLSS 4.5 "In" Flight Simulator Yet? As of now, Microsoft Flight Simulator does not officially list DLSS 4.5 as a native in-sim option. However, NVIDIA has made the new Super Resolution model available through updated drivers and the NVIDIA App, allowing compatible games to take advantage of the improvements behind the scenes. In other words, even without a formal checkbox labeled "DLSS 4.5," many sim pilots are already seeing benefits simply by keeping their drivers up to date. Looking ahead, deeper integration from Asobo Studio and Microsoft could unlock even more gains, especially as future simulator updates and next-generation GPUs arrive. The Big Picture DLSS 4.5 isn't just about higher numbers on a frame counter. It's about making long-haul flights smoother, busy airports less punishing, and cockpits easier on the eyes. For a genre that values immersion above all else, that's a meaningful step forward. As flight simulation continues to evolve, technologies like DLSS are quietly becoming co-pilots, handling the heavy lifting so simmers can focus on flying. And if DLSS 4.5 is any indication, the skies ahead are looking smoother than ever. The post NVIDIA's DLSS 4.5 Takes Flight: What It Means for Flight Simulator Pilots appeared first on Sky Blue Radio. via: https://skyblueradio.com/nvidia-dlss-4-5-flight-simulator-performance/

How Things Are Going at Sky Blue Radio - The End of 2025.

Posted by skyblueradio — Sun, 4 Jan 2026 23:25 GMT

We wanted to take a moment to check in and let you know how things are going here at Sky Blue Radio and to say thank you. Simply put, it's been a really good year, and that's because of you. A Big Year for Our Community This past year, more than 4.7 million listeners tuned in to Sky Blue Radio from all over the world. Last year, that number was 2.3 million, so seeing our audience grow like this has been both exciting and humbling. Whether you're listening while flying a long virtual leg, planning a route, working on a repaint, or just relaxing at home, every listener matters to us. Built by People Who Love Radio and Aviation Sky Blue Radio is a nonprofit organization run entirely by volunteers. Our DJs, producers, and behind-the-scenes team give their time simply because they love radio, aviation, and the community that has grown around both. Many of our shows are created with pilots, aviation enthusiasts, and flight simmers in mind. We know Sky Blue Radio is often playing in the background of cockpits, simulators, and late-night flight planning sessions, and that's something we're incredibly proud of. Celebrating 19 Years This year, Sky Blue Radio turns 19 years old, which still feels a little unreal. What started as a small idea has grown into a global community of listeners who share a love for music and aviation. We'll be celebrating our birthday May 7th through May 10th with special programming and events throughout the weekend. If Sky Blue Radio has ever kept you company on a long flight or during a late-night sim session, we'd love to have you celebrate with us. Reaching New Aviation Audiences We're also excited to share a new partnership with AeroMexico Virtual Airlines, an IVAO virtual airline. They're releasing a new Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) for their pilots that will include access to Sky Blue Radio while they fly. Partnerships like this help us reach more flight simmers and virtual pilots around the world, and help keep Sky Blue Radio connected to the aviation community that's supported us for so long. How You Can Support Sky Blue Radio Because Sky Blue Radio is a nonprofit, community-supported station, listener support truly makes a difference. If you'd like to help us keep the music playing and the servers running, here are a few easy ways to support us:

Listen and share. Telling a friend, squadron, VA, or fellow simmer about Sky Blue Radio helps more than you might think.
Get involved. We're always happy to hear from listeners who want to contribute, whether that's through shows, events, or behind-the-scenes help.
Support our sponsors and partners. They help keep Sky Blue Radio sustainable and growing.
Consider donating. Even small contributions help cover streaming, licensing, and infrastructure costs and go directly back into the station.

Every bit of support, big or small, helps keep Sky Blue Radio flying. Thank You for Being Part of This Whether you've been listening for years or just discovered us on your latest virtual flight, thank you for being part of the Sky Blue Radio community. We're proud of where we are, excited about where we're going, and grateful you're along for the journey. Blue skies and smooth flights, - The Sky Blue Radio Team The post How Things Are Going at Sky Blue Radio - The End of 2025. appeared first on Sky Blue Radio. via: https://skyblueradio.com/how-sky-blue-radio-is-growing/

SCS Software Teases Big Horizons for ETS2 and ATS in Major New Reveal

Posted by skyblueradio — Sat, 3 Jan 2026 13:50 GMT

Fans of truck simulation games got a bumper-to-bumper boost of excitement recently as SCS Software dropped a major future roadmap reveal in a YouTube video titled "SCS Just Showed Their Entire Future." The video lays out an ambitious slate of updates and long-term plans for Euro Truck Simulator 2 (ETS2) and American Truck Simulator (ATS), two of the genre's most beloved driving simulators. According to coverage of the reveal, SCS is setting its sights on big systemic improvements, rebuilding and expanding older game systems and refreshing legacy content to better match modern expectations. The overall goal appears to be evolving both ETS2 and ATS beyond incremental updates into a broader, more dynamic trucking simulation experience. Among the highlights teased in fan commentaries and related videos: . Major map expansions with reworked and enlarged regions in both European and American landscapes. . System overhauls that would revamp how trucks, cargo, economy, and AI behave in the games. . Indications that future game iterations will feel different, deeper, and more immersive than anything previously released. Although exact release dates and all details are still unconfirmed by SCS itself, community voices suggest significant milestones could arrive throughout the coming year, reshaping both ETS2 and ATS forever in the eyes of longtime players. Stay tuned to Sky Blue Radio for more updates as they roll out, and for deeper dives into simulation gaming developments from around the world. The post SCS Software Teases Big Horizons for ETS2 and ATS in Major New Reveal appeared first on Sky Blue Radio. via: https://skyblueradio.com/scs-software-teases-big-horizons-for-ets2-and-ats-in-major-new-reveal/

Plane Successfully Lands Itself After Issue on Board Activates Self-Guided System

Posted by skyblueradio — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 07:50 GMT

A Beechcraft Super King Air 200 completed a historic autonomous landing at Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport in Colorado after experiencing an in-flight pressurization emergency on December 20, 2025. The aircraft, operated by Buffalo River Aviation, was en route from Aspen to the Denver area when it suddenly lost cabin pressurization at cruise altitude. As cabin altitude exceeded safe limits, Garmin's Emergency Autoland system engaged and took full control of the aircraft, selecting a suitable airport, navigating an approach, and landing without any manual pilot input. The two pilots on board donned oxygen masks and remained conscious throughout the event, and they exited the aircraft without injuries once it came to a stop on the runway. Emergency response teams from North Metro Fire Rescue and the Westminster Fire Department were on standby during the landing but were not needed for medical assistance. Garmin confirmed this was the first real-world activation and complete use of its Autoland technology in response to an actual emergency, marking a milestone in aviation safety and automation. The Federal Aviation Administration is investigating the incident to better understand the sequence of events and the system's performance during the emergency landing. The post Plane Successfully Lands Itself After Issue on Board Activates Self-Guided System appeared first on Sky Blue Radio. via: https://skyblueradio.com/autonomous-aircraft-emergency-landing-pressurization/

Don Desfosse Named New VATSIM President

Posted by skyblueradio — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 01:17 GMT

The global flight simulation community has a new captain on the flight deck. Don Desfosse has been announced as the new President of VATSIM, marking a significant leadership transition for one of the world's largest and most influential online aviation networks. VATSIM connects hundreds of thousands of pilots and air traffic controllers in a shared virtual airspace, delivering an experience that mirrors real world aviation with remarkable fidelity. With Don Desfosse stepping into the role of President, the organization signals a continued commitment to growth, modernization, and community driven development. Desfosse brings extensive experience within the flight simulation and online aviation space, along with a strong understanding of the unique balance between realism, accessibility, and volunteer powered operations that defines VATSIM. His leadership is expected to focus on strengthening infrastructure, supporting the global volunteer network, and guiding VATSIM through the next phase of innovation as flight simulation continues its rapid evolution. For sim pilots and controllers alike, this appointment represents both continuity and opportunity, ensuring VATSIM remains a cornerstone of the virtual skies for years to come. Sky Blue Radio will continue to follow leadership developments and major milestones across the flight simulation world, keeping our listeners and readers tuned in to what's next above the cloud The post Don Desfosse Named New VATSIM President appeared first on Sky Blue Radio. via: https://skyblueradio.com/don-desfosse-named-new-vatsim-president/

Denver International Airport Pushes Ahead with Concourse C Expansion

Posted by skyblueradio — Mon, 29 Dec 2025 16:56 GMT

Denver International Airport is taking another concrete step toward expanding Concourse C, advancing a project designed to keep pace with booming passenger demand and growing airline interest. Plans call for an 11-gate extension adding roughly 400,000 square feet of new space. The expansion will include additional concessions, restrooms, and a standout feature for travelers: an outdoor patio offering views of the Rocky Mountains. The project is part of DEN's long-range strategy to handle continued growth and improve the passenger experience. Earlier this month, a Denver City Council committee approved a key piece of the puzzle by advancing a program management team contract. In practical terms, this brings in outside experts to help oversee planning, design, permitting, scheduling, cost controls, and coordination ahead of full-scale construction. While a firm construction start date has not yet been announced, the urgency is clear. Denver International Airport processed a record 82.4 million passengers in 2024, and airport leadership has acknowledged that airlines are already lining up for additional gate capacity. As demand continues to surge, the Concourse C expansion signals Denver's intent to stay ahead of the curve and keep one of the nation's busiest airports moving smoothly into the future. The post Denver International Airport Pushes Ahead with Concourse C Expansion appeared first on Sky Blue Radio. via: https://skyblueradio.com/denver-international-airport-pushes-ahead-with-concourse-c-expansion/

Flight Sim Labs shares Holiday Development News

Posted by skyblueradio — Mon, 22 Dec 2025 23:31 GMT

Flight Sim Labs has issued a new development update addressing the progress and challenges surrounding its highly anticipated Airbus A321-Neo product for Microsoft Flight Simulator. https://skyblueradio.com/flight-sim-labs-shares-holiday-development-update-on-a321-neo-for-microsoft-flight-simulator/