Saab 340 Msfs 2020 -

For Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 (MSFS 2020) , there are currently two primary ways to fly the Saab 340, each catering to different levels of realism and budget: a professional-grade upcoming payware from NextGen Simulations and a community-driven freeware option on Flightsim.to. 1. NextGen Simulations Saab 340 (Upcoming Payware)

This is the most anticipated version for MSFS 2020, designed for "study-level" enthusiasts who want deep systems simulation.

Custom Avionics: Features a specialized flight management system (FMS) and GPS choices including GNS, GTN, and GTNXI.

Realistic Systems: Development focuses on custom flight instrumentation and authentic aircraft behavior.

High-Fidelity Model: Includes a completely remade exterior and interior model with Physically Based Rendering (PBR) textures. Release Info: Originally expected for mid-to-late Q2 2025. 2. Saab 340 Aircraft (Freeware)

A solid option for casual flyers looking for a regional turboprop experience without a price tag. Available on Flightsim.to.

Hybrid Cockpit: Utilizes the Asobo CJ4 cockpit and the FSLTL model, making it functional for flight but less visually authentic in the interior than a dedicated payware model.

Visual Enhancements: Features high-quality 4K textures and includes various liveries like Cayman Airways and Air Chathams.

Community Support: The developer is active and open to feedback for bug fixes. Comparison Table: Saab 340 Options for MSFS 2020 NextGen Simulations (Payware) Community Freeware (Flightsim.to) Model Type Fully Custom S340 Hybrid (S340 Exterior / CJ4 Cockpit) Textures PBR High-Def 4K High-Quality Systems Custom Collins FMS / GPS Asobo CJ4 Defaults Liveries Multiple Pro Repaints Cayman, Air Chathams, etc. Availability Expected 2025 Available Now Note on MSFS 2024 Compatibility

While you are looking for MSFS 2020, it is worth noting that a native Saab 340B was released for the MSFS 2024 Premium Deluxe Edition. Most 2020 add-ons, like the NextGen version, are designed to be compatible with both simulators. Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 FAQ

In Microsoft Flight Simulator (MSFS) 2020, the Saab 340 primarily exists as a freeware project or as the legacy Carenado Saab 340B (originally developed for FSX/P3D) ported into the simulator. While the aircraft has officially joined the MSFS 2024 roster as a default plane, many 2020 users rely on the Carenado version or community-developed mods. 1. Aircraft Specifications saab 340 msfs 2020

The Saab 340 is a Swedish twin-engine turboprop designed for short to medium-haul regional flights, seating 30–36 passengers. Cruise Speed: 271–283 KTAS Service Ceiling: 25,000 ft Engines: Two GE CT7-5A2 or CT7-9B turboprops Range: ~470 nm (IFR) to 1,035 miles depending on payload 2. Cold & Dark Startup (Flow Summary)

For the Carenado version or similar advanced mods, follow this general flow: Saab SF-340 Charter - Rental Cost and Hourly Rate

The Saab 340 is available in Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024

as part of the Premium Deluxe Edition, developed by Carenado. While there is no official "native" Saab 340 for MSFS 2020, community-made freeware versions often utilize existing cockpits (like the Beechcraft King Air 350i or Cessna Citation CJ4) to provide a flyable experience in that version. 1. Vital Pre-Flight Actions

Remove the Gust Lock: Located next to the throttle quadrant, this must be removed to unlock control surface movement.

Weight & Balance: For realistic operations, be mindful of the tail stand. If the aircraft is heavily loaded in the rear, it may rest on its tail until engine power is applied to drop the nose.

Simbrief Integration: Use a tailored Simbrief profile for the Saab 340B to ensure accurate fuel and performance planning. 2. Engine Startup & Systems

The Saab 340 is a complex turboprop requiring a specific sequence to avoid "hot starts" or electrical issues.

Electrical Power: Turn on both batteries and engage both Avionics Switches (do not just use the "ESS" bus).

Hydraulics & Bleed Air: Ensure the hydraulic pumps and bleed air systems are configured before departure. For Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 (MSFS 2020) ,

Engine Start: Use the starter switches on the overhead panel. Note that in some versions, starter sounds may be missing, so monitor your ITT and RPM gauges closely.

CTOT (Continuous Take-off Thrust): Set the CTOT system to "ON" for takeoff to ensure the engines deliver the required power automatically. 3. Navigation and FMS

First look at the Saab 340 in Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024

Chapter 3: Descent & Approach — The Tricky Part

Sisimiut’s AWOS reports: winds 310° at 20 gusting 30, visibility 1.5 SM, snow. You brief the RNAV Runway 18 approach.

Useful MSFS-specific trick: The Saab 340’s autopilot has no VNAV. You must manually manage descent using VS mode. Start down 30 miles out: reduce torque to idle, props 1,400 RPM, deploy spoilers (speed brakes) in increments. Target 180 knots to the FAF (final approach fix).

At the FAF, gear down, flaps 15°, torque 50%, props 1,600 RPM. The crosswind tries to push you off. You disconnect autopilot at 500 ft — hand-fly.

Story climax: The runway lights appear at 300 ft. You crab into the wind, then kick the rudder straight just before touchdown. Right main touches first, then left. Reverse props: condition levers to “beta” (ground idle), then pull prop levers back into reverse. You slow to taxi speed, breathing heavily. Parking brake set.

Chapter 1: Preflight — The MSFS Reality Check

You load into the cockpit. The Saab 340 add-on (Carenado or freeware mod) greets you with clickable switches. Don’t skip the cold & dark startup — it’s half the fun.

Useful tip from the story: The Saab’s engine start requires manual fuel introduction. You move the condition lever from cutoff to low idle only once N1 reaches 12%. Do it too early — hot start. Too late — hung start. In MSFS, practice this: bind “Mixture 1 increase” to a button for smooth lever movement.

You follow the checklist:

Battery on → DC meters show 24V.
APU start → wait for “APU avail” light.
Left engine: starter → 12% N1 → condition lever low idle → ITT peaks at 650°C (safe). Repeat right engine.

Pro tip: In MSFS, the default Saab 340 may over-temp easily. Use the “Experimental FM” option in the tablet (if available) or download the “Saab 340 Improved” mod from Flightsim.to.

The Saab 340 in MSFS 2020: The Ultimate Guide to the Swedish Workhorse

For years, the Microsoft Flight Simulator (MSFS) 2020 hangar has been dominated by two extremes: the glass-cockpit airliners (A320, 787) and the low-and-slow general aviation titans (Cessna 172, Caravan). Nestled in the "Goldilocks zone" of regional turboprop aviation is a gap that many simmers have been desperately waiting to see filled: the legendary Saab 340.

As of the current MSFS 2020 ecosystem, the status of the Saab 340 has shifted from "vaporware hope" to "highly anticipated reality." This article dives deep into what the Saab 340 is, why it matters for sim pilots, which versions are available now, and which upcoming renditions will define the future of regional flying in the simulator.

Where to buy

Carenado Saab 340A – MSFS Marketplace, Orbx Direct, Carenado.com
Price: ~$25–30 USD (frequent sales on Orbx)

Performance vs. System Depth

A common question: Can my PC run the Saab 340?

Surprisingly, the Saab 340 is easier on frames than the Fenix A320 or PMDG 737. Because the cabin is relatively small and the glass cockpits are not massive PFD/MFD screens rendering complex weather radar (yet), you will likely see a 10-15% frame rate increase compared to heavy airliners.

However, the system depth is where you must manage expectations.

Carenado: Expect working autopilot, basic engine limits, and functional de-ice. Do not expect hydraulic accumulators or complex electrical bus failures.
Future Study Level: Expect full wear and tear, realistic circuit breaker management, and the ability to "shed" loads.

Recommended Routes for the Saab 340

To get the most out of your Saab 340 MSFS 2020 experience, do not fly it from New York to London. This is a regional beast. Here are the top three "realistic" routes to fly:

Seattle (KSEA) to Vancouver (CYVR): The Pacific Northwest scenery combined with the short hop makes for a perfect 45-minute flight. Approach into CYVR over the water is stunning at dusk.
Sydney (YSSY) to Dubbo (YSDU): Replicate the real-world Rex Airlines operations. A 300nm flight that takes you over the Blue Mountains requires careful fuel planning.
Lugano (LSZA) to Zurich (LSZH): Flying the Saab 340 through the Swiss Alps is the ultimate test of manual flying. The aircraft handles turbulence well, but the narrow valleys demand precision.

The Development Landscape: Who is Building It?

The history of the Saab 340 in MSFS 2020 has been a rollercoaster. For a long time, only mediocre freeware models existed. However, the landscape changed dramatically with two major contenders:

What to Expect from a Study-Level Saab 340 in MSFS

When the right Saab 340 launches for MSFS 2020 (or MSFS 2024), here is what the hardcore sim pilot will demand: