The useful question is what changes for users, developers or buyers, and whether the announcement stays industry context or becomes something people can actually use.

Synaptic Simulations, a team of eight developers led by Harsh Duba, Shaye Garg, and Mike, launched the A220 Airliner on the Microsoft Flight Simulator Marketplace. The project began as a community-led freeware initiative in 2020–2021, evolving into a professional collaboration with iniBuilds. The team, many of whom were still in high school at the time, pursued engineering and computer science degrees while developing the aircraft, blending passion with education.

The A220 Airliner was chosen for its modern design and lack of high-fidelity simulation at the time. Synaptic aimed to fill a gap in the flight simulation market, creating a unique experience distinct from familiar Boeing and Airbus aircraft. The project’s ambition required rebuilding core components multiple times to achieve accuracy, including the 3D model, systems, and avionics, reflecting the team’s evolving expertise.

iniBuilds partnered with Synaptic to provide production resources, including texturing, passenger cabin, liveries, animations, and refinements. The collaboration extended to a custom sound package and an Electronic Flight Bag (EFB), enhancing usability. Key features include a 3D terrain map, graphical flight-planning system, interactive circuit breakers, and the A220’s distinctive engine sound, known as the “whale howl.”

The A220 Airliner is available for $64.99 on the Microsoft Flight Simulator Marketplace. Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 supports the add-on across Xbox Series X|S, PC, PlayStation 5, and cloud gaming platforms. The developers express excitement about the aircraft’s unique flight dynamics and community reception, with plans for ongoing support and expansion based on user feedback.