If you’ve followed this site over the past few months, you already know a few of us from FSG@ tend to gather for lunch most Fridays. Today was no exception. What starts as a working session rarely stays that way - it usually turns into hangar-talk and problem solving.
Today’s discussion centered on AI-driven ATC — specifically the latest update to BeyondATC — and the noticeable jump in communication fidelity it brings to the sim. The original sim ATC point is replaced by real hit-the-mic ATC talk!
BeyondATC VFR is HERE! First Look & Test Flight
More videos at FlyLex
Somewhere between the restaurant and home, the thought hit me — BeyondATC isn’t the only ATC package out there.
There are a number of them — some similar, some taking a completely different approach — all trying to solve the same problem: how to make talking to ATC in a simulator feel less like a scripted exercise… and more like flying.
So, I went looking. Put together an across platform list.
The following ATC chat programs are available for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024:
- BeyondATC: An addon that introduces a realistic ATC environment with over 300 ultra-realistic AI voices.
- OpenSky: A free, non-subscription-based AI Air Traffic Control system for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 and 2024.
- FSHud - Air Traffic Control: A fully integrated panel for MSFS 2024 and 2020, featuring realistic traffic control and compatibility with popular traffic add-ons.
- SayIntentions.AI: Offers a range of AI-driven ATC services for MSFS, including premium voices and AI cabin crew.
Also, three ATC chat programs for X-Plane:
- X-ATC-Chatter: A collaboration with LiveATC.net, offering over 58,000 high-quality ATC audio clips for X-Plane 11 and 12. It includes a stand-alone player and integrates with Pilot2ATC.
- SayIntentions.AI: An AI-based ATC system that supports X-Plane, providing an immersive air traffic control experience.
- Pilot2ATC: A popular ATC chat program that can be used with X-Plane, allowing for realistic ATC communication during flights.
Another three for Prepar3D:
- VoxATC: A voice-activated ATC add-on that generates its own traffic and uses standard ATC phraseology. It is designed for voice recognition and provides a realistic ATC experience.
- Pro-ATC/SR: A complete ATC add-on for MSFS, Prepar3D, and FSX-SE. It provides a realistic ATC experience with a virtual copilot and supports various flight procedures.
- Pilot2ATC: A companion program for Windows PC-based Flight Simulators that enhances the ATC experience with detailed documentation and a 10-day free trial.
Three more for DCS:
- VAICOM-Community: A standalone installer that replaces previous versions of VAICOM, compatible with DCS 2.8.X.X and later. It includes all modules available with the last paid release.
- DCS Voice Chat: Part of the game, available out-of-the-box with two modes: Room and Radio.
- LotAtc: A complete simulation environment with client + server software that connects with DCS World Simulator or works standalone.
Finally, three more for Aerofly FS 4:
- ATC Chatter: A program that can be set up manually to add ATC chatter to Aerofly FS 4. You can load specific sound files for different radio frequencies.
- SayIntentions.AI: This program can be used in Aerofly FS 4 for taxi, takeoff, transitioning airspace, and landing.
- Pilot2ATC: A companion program for Windows PC-based flight simulators that can enhance the ATC experience in Aerofly FS 4.
At a high level, most of these tools fall into two buckets:
- background ATC
- immersive ATC.
I’ve intentionally mixed both here — because depending on what you’re trying to get out of the sim, either one can be the right answer.
And that’s really the point.
None of these are perfect. Not yet. But for the first time in a couple years, it feels like we’re moving in that direction.
Your thoughts,
Kenneth (Ken) Butterly, Founder
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