Perhaps the most important development is the 'Structured Missions' element. It was designed initially to help non-pilots get started in FSX but with huge potential for developing special scenarios such as Search & Rescue missions, engine-out training for twin-engine aircraft, instrument approaches (possibly with technical failures thrown in).

At the launch, I flew two of FSX's own missions. First, an instrument approach into Innsbruck in a Beech Baron twin during a snowstorm and boy, did I sweat that one. Second, and much more enjoyable, was 'flying' a Beaver floatplane from inlet to inlet picking up passengers and cargo. The water takeoffs and landings were great fun and seemed reasonably realistic in a 2D way. Graphics of the aeroplanes is fantastically detailed.

 The third major new element is 'Tower Control' where a player can act as an Air Traffic Controller with a 360º degree view of the airport, radar screens and radio contact. It can be used in a multi-player situation, either connected online or across a network, where one player is the controller and the others flying.