iFly Releases 737 MAX 8 SP1 Update for MSFS 2020/2024
Quick summary· AI-generated
iFly's SP1 update for the 737 MAX 8 is described as a "very large update" touching nearly every part of the aircraft, developed with input from type-rated pilots. Major additions include a tablet-style EFB, cabin PA announcements, support for the 737 MAX 8-200 (Ryanair), multiple cabin layouts, and refreshed textures and sounds. The MSFS 2020 version enters maintenance-only mode after SP1; future development moves to a native MSFS 2024 version still in progress. Old liveries are incompatible and must be removed before updating due to new models and cabin layouts.
Excerpt from Threshold
iFly/FlightOneSoftware has just released the highly anticipated Service Pack 1 update for the 737 MAX 8, now live for MSFS 2020, as well as an experimental version for 2024.
In the provided press release, iFly describes SP1 as a “very large update”, where covering every change would require “many, many pages”. According to iFly, almost every part of the aircraft has been reworked in some shape or form, with the help of many technical advisors who are type-rated on the real aircraft.
One of the biggest additions of SP1 is the new, tablet-style EFB, as well as cabin PA announcements, the 737 MAX 8-200 for Ryanair operations, multiple cabin layout support, updated textures, updated sounds and further systems work across the airframe.
However, some planned items had to be omitted from this release as well. CPDLC has been pushed back to a later date, and iFly suggests it may arrive with the MSFS 2024 native update.
Full GSX compatibility is not implemented; although it does work, some features, such as all automated fuel and catering integrations, are not yet supported. iFly says they’re also waiting on GSX to update seating layouts.
Service Pack 1 marks the final update for the MSFS 2020 version of the product, and from this point onward, only critical bug fixes will be made, if they are relevant to MSFS 2024. The MSFS 2020 version will otherwise not be supported, and all future development will move to the MSFS 2024 native version.
The MSFS 2024 version is, at this stage, however, still experimental and not native, and relies on several workarounds to work properly. iFly says it does not provide bug support for this version and will instead shift its focus to developing a fully native MSFS 2024 version of the Max, which is already well into development.
Because SP1 includes new models, updated textures, updated cabin layouts, and the MAX 8-200, existing liveries will need to be reworked to function properly, the paint kit has been updated appropriately for this purpose.
Old liveries should therefore be removed before installing SP1, and liveries made before SP1 are not compatible.
SP1 is available now through the iFly Manager for both MSFS 2020 and the experimental MSFS 2024 version. You can find a Press Release on the iFly Discord.
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