Last updated on September 5th, 2025 at 11:34 pm
There’s nothing quite like jumping into a virtual cockpit with friends — or even people you just met an hour ago online — and taking off together. It’s more than flying a plane; it’s a shared adventure in the clouds. That moment when everyone nails the same waypoint, the radio chatter is flowing, and the whole group is crossing the virtual Atlantic in sync? That’s the kind of magic you don’t forget.
Imagine sitting there in the pilot’s seat, chatting over comms, sharing jokes and tips. Whether you’re navigating tricky weather or just cruising through clear skies, the camaraderie turns any flight into a memorable experience. Plus, let’s be real; there’s something about dealing with real-time challenges as a team that makes the whole ride feel more authentic.
These group flights do more than just spice up your sim time. They help weave a tight-knit community of aviation enthusiasts who share the same passion. This isn’t just about executing a perfect landing together; it’s about creating stories you’ll all share. After all, no one flies to have an experience that’s just average. You’re building bonds, trading skills, and coming up with new ways to enjoy the hobby together.
Platform Selection: Choosing the Right Stage
Choosing your flight sim platform sets the stage for your online flying escapades. With heavyweights like Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 or 2024, X-Plane, and DCS World leading the pack, finding the one offering the right features is the first step. Each platform comes packed with its quirks and capabilities, so aligning your group’s choice is crucial.
Consider how each platform handles multiplayer functions. Some might offer seamless integrations, while others may require a few extra hoops to jump through. That’s why chatting with your co-pilots beforehand and checking everyone’s setup is a smart move. MSFS 2020 or 2024 , for example, offers stunning visuals and a vibrant community, but sometimes its server sync can have you scratching your head.
Compatibility is everything. I’ve seen great flight plans derailed because half the group had a different sim build or a missing scenery pack. Suddenly, someone’s stuck in clear skies while the rest are flying through a blizzard. Before you schedule that first waypoint, make sure everyone’s running the same updates and mods — it saves you from that awkward “uh, where did everyone go?” moment on takeoff.
If you’re still deciding which platform to fly on, my guide on Choosing the Right Flight Simulator for Your Needs can help you weigh the pros and cons before making the call.
Platform choice can also impact your communal flight. Some sims provide more robust environmental and traffic settings, adding to the immersion. Sharing stories about navigating through these differences can help improve everyone’s experience. After all, it’s all about maximizing the fun and making sure everyone’s flying on the same wavelength.
Crafting Your Collective Journey: The Flight Plan
Diving into a multiplayer flight without a solid plan is like heading on a road trip without a map. A carefully crafted flight plan ensures everyone’s flying in the same direction — literally. Start by agreeing on where you’re headed. Pick your departure and arrival airports, and make sure everyone has those waypoints locked in.
Discussing altitude and speed can make or break the flight experience. Find a sweet spot that suits everyone. Maybe your buddy wants to max out their cruising speed, but it’s best if everybody’s clipping along at a pace that makes sense for the group. It’s all about getting that beautiful formation or just enjoying a leisurely cruise together.
Weather settings can make or break the vibe. I’ve had flights where half of us were battling through thick fog while the rest were cruising in postcard-perfect skies — it’s more confusing than immersive. Whether you’re chasing storms or chasing sunsets, make sure everyone’s weather matches. That way, when someone calls out “lightning ahead,” everyone gets to see it.
Adopting real-world flight plans from sites like FlightAware or SimBrief can add an extra touch of realism, while custom plans allow for creativity. Talk through the options with your fellow pilots and maybe even trade tales from real aviation if you’ve got pros among you. It’s these little touches that transform a straightforward session into an engaging virtual journey.
If you’re new to flight planning, my article on Developing a Realistic Flight Plan breaks down the tools, steps, and tips you’ll need to get it right.
Communication is Key: Staying in the Loop
A successful group flight hinges on solid communication. Whether you’re coordinating takeoffs or navigating through crowded airspace, staying in touch is vital. That’s where choosing the right communication method comes into play.
With options like Discord, TeamSpeak, and in-game voice systems, picking a platform everyone is comfortable with is crucial. Some might feel at home using Discord’s versatile features, while others prefer the simplicity of in-game chat. Make sure the whole crew is looped in before hitting the virtual runways.
Good comms aren’t just about instructions — they’re about connection. Sure, you’ll use them to line up approaches and warn someone they’re about to drift into restricted airspace, but you’ll also share laughs, trade quick tips, and occasionally rescue a friend from a very preventable mountain encounter. Whether it’s Discord or in-game voice, reliable chat keeps the whole crew on the same frequency — in every sense of the word.
If you want to see how communication works in a real ATC environment, my post on Top Software for Air Traffic Control Simulation shows the tools and networks that make it possible.
But it’s not always about peak efficiency. Think about using a casual touch for those long hauls, sharing what’s on your mind, or even discovering a nifty flying shortcut that someone just made up. It’s these interactions that make online flights feel less like a series of mechanical maneuvers and more like a shared adventure among friends.
Level of Realism: From Leisurely Loops to Heady Operations
Realism is where group flights either click or clash. Some pilots love flying on VATSIM with full ATC, detailed checklists, and nailing every procedure exactly. Others just want to take the scenic route and snap screenshots along the way. Before you spool up, have that “what kind of flight are we doing?” conversation. It saves you from the mid-flight awkwardness of one person prepping for a strict approach while another’s looping around for a fun low pass.
Finding a sweet spot can also be a game-changer for the learning experience. Maybe you’ve got a mix of pilots who are eager to practice real-world procedures and some who are still getting used to their virtual wings. Mixing things up can actually enhance the session, giving it variety and a learning aspect that’s hard to beat.
Sharing stories about how previous flights went—whether they leaned towards the realistic or the laid-back—can help tailor future flights. It’s amazing how much you can gain from just reflecting on past experiences and tweaking things to make sure everyone, from newbies to veterans, gets the most out of each session.
Wrapping It Up
Organizing a virtual multiplayer flight isn’t just about getting planes in the air — it’s about building moments you’ll remember long after the sim shuts down. From choosing the right platform to agreeing on a flight plan, syncing weather, and deciding on the realism level, every step adds to the fun and strengthens your crew’s connection.
Whether you’re chasing storms, flying scenic loops, or sticking to strict ATC procedures, the beauty of multiplayer flights is that they’re yours to shape. The more you plan together, the smoother — and more memorable — each flight will be.
So why wait? Reach out to your fellow simmers, pick a route, and set a date for your next group flight. And if you need more inspiration, check out my guide on How to Connect With Other Aviators Online — it’s the perfect next step to building your virtual flight crew.