Vector Sim Pulls Back the Curtain on its 787-9 During FSExpo 2026 Presentation
Quick summary· AI-generated
Vector Sim presented a detailed hands-on look at the 787-9's development at FlightSimExpo 2026, emphasizing a "one aircraft, one network" design philosophy where systems communicate realistically. The team demonstrated functioning hydraulic systems, Electronic Flight Bags, checklists, and cockpit displays that share information authentically across the aircraft. Rather than future promises, the presentation focused on already-working features and systems that mirror real-world 787 operations. This represents one of the most substantive developer deep-dives into the aircraft's progress to date.
Excerpt from FSElite
After offering the community its first glimpse of the project during FSWeekend earlier this year, and again back in May, Vector Sim returned to the stage at FlightSimExpo 2026 with a much more substantial look at its upcoming Boeing 787-9 for Microsoft Flight Simulator.
Rather than focusing on announcements or future promises, the presentation centred on demonstrating systems and features that are already functioning within the aircraft. Throughout the showcase, the team emphasised a key development philosophy: building a complete and interconnected aircraft where systems, workflows, visuals, and functionality all work together as they do in the real world.
Using United Airlines 787-9 N27958 as the presentation aircraft, attendees were treated to a detailed look at several areas of development, including the aircraft’s hydraulic systems, integrated Electronic Flight Bags, checklist functionality, cockpit presentation, and sound environment.
A Flight Deck Designed Around Connectivity
One of the recurring themes throughout the presentation was connectivity.
Vector explained how the aircraft has been designed around a common network architecture that allows systems throughout the aircraft to communicate with one another. During a live operational scenario, the team demonstrated interactions between the cockpit displays, CDU, EFBs, and aircraft systems, all sharing information across the aircraft.
The result is intended to create a more authentic operational environment, where information is available where pilots would expect it to be, and systems react appropriately based on aircraft state and pilot actions.
The developer summarised the philosophy simply: “one aircraft, one network, one connected experience.”
A Closer Look at the Hydraulic System
Following a previous spotlight on the electrical system, FSExpo attendees were given a detailed look at the 787’s hydraulic architecture.
The demonstration showcased both the Synoptic and Maintenance pages, highlighting how hydraulic flow is visualised throughout the aircraft during engine start and normal operations. As engines came online, attendees could see pumps activating, pressures building, and fluid flow being represented throughout the system in real time.
What stood out was the level of detail being presented. Rather than simplified indications, the displays showed realistic values, timings, and behaviour intended to mirror the aircraft’s real-world systems.
Vector also highlighted the…
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