TFDi Design has published its end-of-year development status, spotlighting progress on the highly anticipated MD-11 for Microsoft Flight Simulator and updates to its flight tracking platform smartCARS. This update offers the flight simulation community a clear picture of where development stands as 2025 draws to a close.

The MD-11 project has seen intensive refinement over the past year. The development team reports extensive enhancements to nearly every aspect of the aircraft. Improvements include completely redone exterior modeling, enriched sound design, major cabin rework, refined cockpit geometry, and a host of systems upgrades. According to TFDi Design, many testers feel the aircraft now delivers an experience akin to a fresh product release. The team also incorporated numerous quality-of-life improvements based on community feedback.

Collector’s Edition customers have already received early access to a native Flight Simulator 2024 version and the substantial art update. Initial feedback has been positive, but broader testing revealed issues that the team is continuing to address. Originally targeting a release before year’s end, TFDi Design has chosen to delay the public launch until after the holidays. This decision, the studio says, will allow additional polishing and wider compatibility testing to ensure a smooth experience for all users. The delay also gives developers a chance to rest after a demanding development cycle.

Alongside aircraft work, the smartCARS team is preparing an update aimed at improving flight tracking stability and usability. Planned fixes include better connectivity for X-Plane simulators, improved landing rate detection, and more reliable logging. Future smartCARS enhancements are planned, but the focus for now is on stability and user experience improvements.

Looking ahead, TFDi Design says the nearing completion of the MD-11 update and the maturation of smartCARS will free up resources for upcoming projects, some of which are already underway. The team also welcomed new support staff and a returning developer, reflecting growth as the studio moves into 2026.

TFDi Design expressed gratitude to its community for their ongoing support and feedback, and wished everyone a joyful holiday season and a strong start to the new year.

Stay tuned to Sky Blue Radio for more updates as these developments unfold.