The Ultimate Spotting Experience Arrives in Microsoft Flight Simulator

By Administrator

Published on 06/28/2025 20:36

FlightControlTools, creators of the popular FlightControlReplay 5, have just announced a game-changing new add-on for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 and 2020: FlightControlSpotter.

Unveiled at FlightSimExpo 2025 during the FSElite Seminar Theatre, FlightControlSpotter delivers an all-new, immersive plane-spotting experience within the simulator. Developed by Fabio Merlo—the mastermind behind FlightControlReplay—this new tool puts aviation enthusiasts right in the heart of the action.

What Is FlightControlSpotter?

FlightControlSpotter is an integrated in-sim toolbar panel designed to let users instantly teleport to air traffic hotspots, create and revisit custom views, and follow real-time aircraft activity—all without leaving the simulator or using external software.

Who’s It For?

Whether you're a casual simmer, a diehard aviation enthusiast, or a content creator, FlightControlSpotter offers something for everyone:

Casual flight sim fans can now watch their own aircraft from new, dynamic angles, including an instantly accessible Tower view.
AI traffic spotters can enjoy non-stop takeoffs and landings from a wide variety of aircraft and airlines.
Event participants can easily observe fellow pilots during group flights and online events.
Streamers and creators can transform MSFS into a living, breathing airport environment, complete with cinematic camera angles and real-time traffic tracking.

Key Features

Nearest Tower Spot View: Jump to the nearest airport’s tower view with a single click. The tool displays the airport’s ICAO code and name, allowing you to observe live airport activity from above.
Spot View by ICAO: Pick from nearby airports within a 200 NM radius, then select a runway or parking spot to jump into. You can save and name these views for quick future access.
Custom Spot View by Position: Save your exact location—including latitude, longitude, and altitude—at any point, whether in-flight or on foot. Perfect for returning to your favorite viewpoints.
Manage Spot Views: The Load Spot Views panel makes it easy to organize, rename, or delete your saved views. All information is stored locally for privacy and performance.

And perhaps the best feature: it all works seamlessly with the native MSFS drone camera. Enjoy full freedom of movement—zoom, pan, rotate, or fly through the air—and instantly return to your aircraft with a single shortcut.

Whether you’re capturing that golden-hour touchdown, scouting airport operations, or simply relaxing as air traffic unfolds, FlightControlSpotter opens up a new dimension in Microsoft Flight Simulator.