2020 - Saab 340 Msfs
If you type "Saab 340 MSFS 2020" into the search bar today, you will find the Carenado version available on the Marketplace and third-party stores.
Buy it if:
Wait for the X-Crafts version if:
Microsoft has announced that MSFS 2024 will include "career mode" missions for regional cargo and passenger transport. This is a golden opportunity for the Saab 340.
Imagine this: You start a cargo company using a Cessna 208. You grind missions, earn money, and upgrade to a used Saab 340A. You then fly red-eye cargo runs from Louisville (KSDF) to small regional hubs. This is the emergent gameplay that will make the Saab 340 a superstar in MSFS 2024.
Historically, the king of the Saab 340 in X-Plane was FlyJSim. Their Q400 Legacy and 732 TwinJet set the standard. However, FlyJSim has been suspiciously quiet about MSFS.
Conversely, Carenado released the Saab 340B for FSX/P3D years ago. Carenado is active in MSFS, but they have not confirmed a port. The Carenado model was "visual masterpiece, systems light." If they bring it to MSFS, expect beautiful textures but simplified logic.
The dark horse: Blackbox Simulations (famous for their Porta-Potty-level quality reputation) has teased a Saab. Avoid until proven otherwise.
For years, flight simulation enthusiasts have been clamoring for one specific aircraft to break free from the "vaporware" cycle and land into Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020: the Saab 340. While the digital skies have been dominated by airliners like the A320neo and the Boeing 737, the niche for high-fidelity regional turboprops has remained surprisingly sparse. Enter the Saab 340 for MSFS 2020—a simulation that promises to blend Swedish engineering with digital precision.
But does it live up to the hype? Is it the "study-level" aircraft regional pilots have been waiting for? In this comprehensive review, we will dissect every rivet, system, and flight model of the Saab 340 within the MSFS ecosystem.
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 has finally entered its "Golden Age" of third-party add-ons. The Saab 340 represents the bridge between the classic era of aviation and the modern EFIS age. While the current offerings have quirks—like occasional autopilot oscillations or missing circuit breakers—there is no denying the joy of hearing those CT7s spool up as you roll for takeoff into a regional airport.
The Saab 340 for MSFS 2020 is not just an aircraft; it is a flying technique lesson. It rewards patience, punishes laziness, and ultimately delivers one of the most satisfying "hand-flying" experiences in the simulator.
Whether you choose the visually stunning Carenado version today or wait for the study-level X-Crafts release tomorrow, the Saab 340 deserves a permanent spot in your hangar. It is time to trade the glass cockpit automation for the growl of a turboprop and remember why flying short is often more fun than flying far.
Have you flown the Saab 340 in MSFS? What is your favorite regional route? Let us know in the flight sim forums.
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 (MSFS 2020) is primarily represented through third-party add-ons and community mods, as it is not a default aircraft in the standard 2020 edition. Most notably, a detailed version was developed by and later included as a first-party aircraft in the Premium Deluxe version of the subsequent Available Options for Free Community Mod (Flightsim.to) : A popular free option available on Flightsim.to
utilizes high-quality 4K textures and an external FSLTL model.
: It uses the Asobo CJ4 cockpit as a functional placeholder. Performance
: Users report it flies steadily but lacks a fully functional autopilot and has minor issues like the airframe "sinking" into the ground. Virtualcol FS Software
: A paid "lite" version of the Saab 340 was released early in the simulator's lifecycle, prioritizing frame-rate performance over deep systems simulation. Next-Gen Integration (MSFS 2024 Compatibility) : For those with the Premium Deluxe
edition of MSFS 2024, the Saab 340B is a default aircraft. While 2020 and 2024 are standalone, most 2020 add-ons are compatible with the newer sim. Common Issues & Tips
If you are currently flying the Saab 340 in MSFS 2020 or 2024, be aware of several widely reported technical hurdles: Navigation & HSI
: The Horizontal Situation Indicator (HSI) may not display the flight path unless a destination is explicitly selected in the world map before starting the flight. Engine Controls
: Users have noted that the condition levers are often not bindable to physical controller axes, requiring mouse interaction in the virtual cockpit. Climb Performance
: Some versions struggle to reach high cruising altitudes (e.g., above FL130), even when not fully loaded. Livery and Customization Saab 340 aircraft for MSFS2020 4K - Flightsim.to
For Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020, finding a high-fidelity Saab 340 is a bit of a challenge compared to MSFS 2024 (where it is included as a default plane). However, there are a few solid options to get this iconic turboprop into your sim. 1. Payware Options
There is currently no "study-level" Saab 340 natively released for MSFS 2020, but several developers have projects in the works:
NextGen Simulations: They are actively developing a Saab 340 and Saab 2000 specifically for MSFS 2020. The release is expected around mid to late Q2 2025.
Carenado: While they developed the official Saab 340 for the MSFS 2024 Premium Deluxe Edition, they have not yet released a standalone version specifically for the MSFS 2020 marketplace. 2. Freeware & Community Content
If you want to fly the Saab 340 right now in MSFS 2020, your best bet is community-made "franken-planes" that use external models with internal cockpits from other default planes:
Saab 340 aircraft for MSFS2020 4K: Available on Flightsim.to. This uses an FSLTL exterior model paired with a Cessna Citation CJ4 cockpit.
Pros: High-quality 4K textures, 10+ liveries included (e.g., Cayman Airways, Pacific Coastal).
Cons: Non-functional autopilot, uses sounds and avionics from the Beechcraft King Air 350i or CJ4. 3. Essential Liveries
If you already have a version of the aircraft or are planning for the 2024 version, the community has produced several high-quality repaints:
Airlines: You can find British Airways, Canadian North, and WestJet Link liveries for various versions of the plane. Operating Tips for Sim Pilots saab 340 msfs 2020
If you're transitioning from other turboprops like the King Air or ATR, keep these Saab-specific details in mind:
In-Sim Marketplace Now Available in Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024
Reviewing the Saab 340 for Microsoft Flight Simulator (MSFS)
is a bit of a mixed bag depending on which version or platform you're using. While the aircraft is a legendary regional turboprop known for its reliability and efficiency in the real world, its digital counterpart has seen varied levels of polish. The "New" Saab 340B (MSFS 2024 Integration)
If you are coming from MSFS 2024, the Saab 340B is a centerpiece of the regional career mode.
The Good: It fills a vital niche as an intermediary between small twin-turboprops and larger regional jets. It is praised for its hand-flying stability and authentic feel as a slightly "underpowered" aircraft, especially during climb.
The Bad: It launched with significant technical hurdles. Users have reported buggy FMC systems lacking full AIRAC data and a critical HSI bug where the course deviation indicator remains fixed. Performance issues, such as difficulty reaching cruise altitudes like FL250, have also been noted.
Sound: Some community members find the audio underwhelming and "too quiet," missing the characteristic roar of the GE CT7 engines. Community & Freeware Options (MSFS 2020)
For original MSFS 2020 users, options often involve community-made mods.
Freeware Projects: There is a popular freeware Saab 340 on Flightsim.to that uses high-quality 4K textures but relies on the Asobo CJ4 cockpit as a placeholder.
Experience: While it looks great on the outside with diverse liveries (e.g., Cayman Airways, Air Chathams), the "Frankenstein" cockpit means it doesn't function like a true turboprop, which might be a dealbreaker for realism seekers. Verdict Visuals ★★★★☆ Generally sharp 4K textures and good external modeling. Systems ★★☆☆☆
Currently plagued by FMC bugs and non-responsive controls in some versions. Flight Model ★★★☆☆
Captures the "sluggish" but stable nature of the real plane well. Value ★★★☆☆
Great as a career starter, but needs updates to reach "study-level" quality.
Check out these flight tests and deep dives to see the Saab 340 in action: Why The New Saab 340 Is The BEST MSFS2024 Plane 72K views · 1 year ago YouTube · Swiss001
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 | First flight in the SAAB 340! 6K views · 1 year ago YouTube · Cow Town
The cloud layer over Puget Sound was a solid, woolen gray, stretching from the jagged Olympic peaks to the hazy outline of Mount Rainier. Captain Elena Vargas adjusted her headset, the familiar hiss of the Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 audio engine filling her home office. But tonight, it wasn’t her office. It was the flight deck of Northflow Airlines Flight 308, a Saab 340B, parked at Gate C11 of KSEA.
“Seattle Ground, Northflow 308, request push and start,” she said, her voice carrying the practiced cadence of a thousand virtual flights.
“Northflow 308, Ground. Push approved, expect Runway 16L.”
With a flick of the mouse, she released the parking brake. The external view showed the stubby, high-winged Saab—affectionately known as the “Swedish Lawn Dart” by simmers—begin its slow, hydraulic whine of a pushback. Even through the simulated airframe, she felt the thump as the tug connected. This wasn’t a glassy Airbus or a silent electric air-taxi. The Saab 340 was a machine of levers, gauges, and personality.
The engines—two rugged General Electric CT7s—coughed, then spun to life with a high-pitched bark that settled into a steady, throbbing drone. Elena’s hands moved across the virtual overhead panel with muscle memory born of hundreds of hours. Bleeds on. Ignition start. Generators to on. The cockpit vibrated, not in a cheap, screen-shake way, but in the subtle, authoritative shudder that made the Saab feel alive.
“Taxi, Charlie, Charlie, hold short 16L,” Ground instructed.
She nudged the throttle. The Saab responded with a lazy pull to the left—the torque effect that catches the unwary. A tiny nudge of right tiller corrected it. Looking out the side window, she watched the flaps drop. Not the polite, silent extension of a jetliner, but a mechanical, almost agricultural groan. 22 degrees. Then down to 35 for takeoff. The Saab 340 was a machine that demanded you listen.
Takeoff roll. At 80 knots, the nose lifted. At 110, she rotated. The world tilted. Rain lashed the windscreen (courtesy of MSFS 2020’s beautiful new weather system), and the runway lights blurred into a string of diamonds below. Gear up. The clunk through the floor was deeply satisfying. Then, the moment every Saab pilot waits for: the power reduction.
As she pulled the throttles back from takeoff to climb power, the distinctive, guttural howl of the props changing pitch washed over the cockpit. It wasn’t a scream; it was a growl. A declaration. The Saab clawed for altitude, 1,500 feet per minute, feeling heavy and planted, like a workhorse that knew the mountain pass ahead was nothing but a small hill.
Climbing through 10,000 feet, Elena engaged the autopilot. The Saab’s autopilot is a simple creature—altitude hold, heading bug, nav tracking. No flight director theatrics. She tuned the VOR to the Bellingham (HUH) beacon and set a course for KBLI. Below, the San Juan Islands materialized through a break in the clouds, a mosaic of dark green and rocky shoreline.
This was why she flew the Saab. Not for the speed—it trundled along at a leisurely 280 knots. Not for the range—it was a regional lifeline. It was for the texture. In MSFS 2020, the third-party Saab 340 (from Carenado or the highly anticipated X-Plane conversions) is a masterpiece of tactile simulation. The knobs have resistance. The annunciator panel glows with a warm, urgent orange. The windshield rain effects streak realistically. You feel the mass of the airframe when you bank.
As she descended toward Bellingham, she disconnected the autopilot at 5,000 feet. The Saab came alive again in her hands, sensitive on the roll, needing constant trim adjustments. She extended the gear over the bay, and the aircraft immediately ballooned—a classic Saab trait. A quick throttle blip settled it.
“Bellingham Tower, Northflow 308, on the ILS 34, full stop.”
“Northflow 308, cleared to land, runway 34. Wind calm.”
Flaps to 35. Then full 40 degrees. The nose dropped. The airframe shook gently in the landing configuration, a low-frequency rumble that said, I am ready. She crossed the threshold at 110 knots, pulled the power to idle, and held the nose off.
The main gear touched with a satisfying chirp. She let the nose fall gently. Reverse pitch—the engines roared, the props clattered, and the Saab slowed with a visceral aggression. Turning off at Taxiway Bravo, she felt the click of the landing lights off, the sigh of the flaps retracting, the tired groan of the hydraulics.
Shutting down the right engine, then the left, the silence was profound. The only sound left was the rain pattering on the virtual cockpit roof and the distant hiss of the terminal HVAC. If you type "Saab 340 MSFS 2020" into
Elena leaned back in her real-world chair, the glow of her monitor reflecting on her face. In the virtual world, the Saab 340 sat silent on the Bellingham ramp, its propellers drooping, a loyal metal bird that had just delivered 34 simulated passengers safely through a storm.
She reached for her coffee. It was cold. But the flight had been anything but.
“See you tomorrow, old friend,” she whispered, and closed the logbook.
Microsoft Flight Simulator (MSFS) , there is currently a divide between the version of the Saab 340 included in the 2024 simulator and what is available for MSFS 2020. Current Options for MSFS 2020
While a high-fidelity, "study-level" Saab 340 for MSFS 2020 has been long-awaited, options remain limited compared to its inclusion in MSFS 2024: NextGen Simulations Saab 340/2000
: This is the most anticipated dedicated project for MSFS 2020. However, it has faced a lengthy development cycle with various delays. Freeware Projects : You can find community-made versions on platforms like Flightsim.to
. These often use the exterior models of older sims (like the FSX Carenado model) paired with internal cockpits from default aircraft like the CJ4 to make them flyable in the 2020 environment. Microsoft Flight Simulator Forums Comparison with MSFS 2024
If you are moving to MSFS 2024, the Saab 340 is included as a Premium Deluxe default aircraft, developed by Saab 340? - Aircraft - Microsoft Flight Simulator Forums
The Saab 340 has become a highly anticipated and debated regional turboprop in the Microsoft Flight Simulator community. While the aircraft is a staple for short-haul enthusiasts, its availability in MSFS 2020 primarily exists through early-stage freeware and development projects, with the most polished version being the "default" offering recently bundled with the MSFS 2024 Premium Deluxe Edition. Saab 340 Options for MSFS 2020
As of early 2026, the landscape for the Saab 340 in the original MSFS 2020 consists of the following:
NextGen Simulations Saab 340/2000: This is currently the most high-fidelity project specifically targeting MSFS 2020. The developer has confirmed that the Saab 340 is undergoing flight model development and bug fixes, with a target release in mid-to-late Q2 2025 for the 2020 platform first. It is planned to feature custom instrumentation, multiple GPS choices (GNS, GTN, GTNXI), and a Collins FMS.
Freeware "Saab 340 4K" (Flightsim.to): A community-made add-on that uses high-quality 4K textures based on the FSLTL model. While it visually captures the aircraft's essence, it utilizes the ASOBO CJ4 cockpit as a placeholder, meaning it is not a "study-level" simulation.
Virtualcol Saab Regional Pack: While Virtualcol is a known name in budget-friendly regional aircraft, their recent MSFS efforts have focused on the Dash 8 and CRJ series. Their Saab 340 remains primarily an FSX/P3D product. The "Default" MSFS 2024 Saab 340B
For users moving to the newer simulator, the Saab 340B developed by Carenado is included in the Premium Deluxe and Aviator Editions. Carenado Saab 340 - not IFR -operable - Aircraft & Systems
For enthusiasts of the Saab 340 in Microsoft Flight Simulator (MSFS) 2020, an interesting feature could be the development of a realistic " Cargo Door Operation" system. Here's how it could work:
Feature Name: Realistic Cargo Door Operation
Description: This feature would allow pilots to realistically operate the cargo door of the Saab 340, adding a new level of immersion and realism to cargo operations in MSFS 2020.
Functionality:
Additional Features:
Benefits:
This feature would be a great addition to the Saab 340 in MSFS 2020, offering a unique and realistic flying experience for enthusiasts.
The status of the Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 (MSFS 2020) is complex, as the most prominent version of this aircraft was developed specifically as core content for the sequel,
. For users staying on MSFS 2020, options are limited to freeware mods or waiting for potential back-ports. Available Options for MSFS 2020
While a high-fidelity, payware Saab 340 currently lacks a dedicated release for MSFS 2020, users can access the following: Freeware Saab 340 (Flightsim.to)
: A community-created model featuring high-quality 4K textures. : Includes multiple liveries like Cayman Airways and Air Chathams. Limitations : It utilizes the default Asobo CJ4 cockpit
as a placeholder, meaning it is not a "study-level" systems representation. NextGen Simulations
: This developer has had a Saab 340 in their pipeline for some time, aiming for extreme body and cockpit detail. However, as of early 2026, it remains in development and has been described as being in an "early" state. Microsoft Flight Simulator Forums The Carenado Saab 340 (MSFS 2024 Context) The most discussed version of this aircraft is the Carenado Saab 340 included in the Premium Deluxe edition of
: Highly detailed exterior modeling and a complex cockpit with numerous switches and knobs. Current Issues : Users have reported significant bugs, including: Navigation
: A non-functional or "lacking" FMS that often fails to display routes on the HSI. Career Mode
: Missions often fail immediately after spawning due to a bug where the aircraft is detected as moving prematurely.
: Reports of inaccurate hydraulic meters, weird sound loops for flaps, and difficulty reaching standard cruise altitudes like FL250. Microsoft Flight Simulator Forums Comparison Summary Freeware (MSFS 2020) Carenado (MSFS 2024) Availability Available on Flightsim.to Included in Premium Deluxe Placeholder (CJ4) Custom 3D Model System Depth Low (Basic) Moderate (but currently bugged) Part of Sim Edition For MSFS 2020 pilots, the Freeware 4K
model is the primary way to fly the airframe today, though it serves more as a "visual mod" than a technical simulation. True enthusiasts may need to look toward or wait for NextGen Simulations to complete their standalone project. alternative turboprops currently available with full system depth for MSFS 2020? Carenado Saab 340 - not IFR -operable - Aircraft & Systems
Saab 340 Report for MSFS 2020
Introduction
The Saab 340 is a twin-turboprop aircraft that has been a popular choice for regional airlines and cargo operators. In Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 (MSFS 2020), the Saab 340 is a highly sought-after aircraft for its unique characteristics and challenging flight dynamics. This report provides an overview of the Saab 340 in MSFS 2020, highlighting its features, performance, and flying experience.
Aircraft Features
Performance
Flying Experience
Conclusion
The Saab 340 in MSFS 2020 is a highly realistic and engaging aircraft to fly. Its unique characteristics and challenging flight dynamics make it a great addition to any virtual airline or flying enthusiast's collection. With its detailed exterior and interior models, accurate performance, and realistic flying experience, the Saab 340 is a must-have for any MSFS 2020 pilot.
Recommendations
In Microsoft Flight Simulator (MSFS) 2020, the Saab 340 primarily exists as a freeware project or as the legacy Carenado Saab 340B (originally developed for FSX/P3D) ported into the simulator. While the aircraft has officially joined the MSFS 2024 roster as a default plane, many 2020 users rely on the Carenado version or community-developed mods. 1. Aircraft Specifications
The Saab 340 is a Swedish twin-engine turboprop designed for short to medium-haul regional flights, seating 30–36 passengers. Cruise Speed: 271–283 KTAS Service Ceiling: 25,000 ft Engines: Two GE CT7-5A2 or CT7-9B turboprops Range: ~470 nm (IFR) to 1,035 miles depending on payload 2. Cold & Dark Startup (Flow Summary)
For the Carenado version or similar advanced mods, follow this general flow: Saab SF-340 Charter - Rental Cost and Hourly Rate
Microsoft Flight Simulator (MSFS) is a highly anticipated regional turboprop that is primarily available as part of the Premium Deluxe Edition
of MSFS 2024, though several community-driven "pieces" (add-ons and mods) exist for MSFS 2020 users. Available Models and Add-ons Official Microsoft/Carenado Saab 340B : This version is a default aircraft in the MSFS 2024 Premium Deluxe Edition
. It features high-quality 4K/8K textures and authentic flight behavior. Freeware Community Mod : A freeware version of the Saab 340 for MSFS 2020 is available on Flightsim.to
. It is based on a mashup of the FSLTL model and the Asobo CJ4 cockpit. Carenado Payware (Legacy)
: While Carenado produced a popular Saab 340 for FSX and P3D, its integration into MSFS 2020 has faced some technical issues, with users reporting it can be non-IFR operable in certain configurations. Flightsim.to Essential Community Liveries For those using the Microsoft/Carenado model, Flightsim.to offers numerous "pieces" to customize the aircraft: Saab 340 aircraft for MSFS2020 4K - Flightsim.to
The Saab 340 for Microsoft Flight Simulator is primarily available as part of the Premium Deluxe Edition of MSFS 2024, developed by Carenado. While technically an MSFS 2024 aircraft, it can be accessed by users of that platform, though MSFS 2020 users primarily rely on freeware mods that adapt other models (like the CJ4) to provide a Saab 340 experience. ✈️ Key Review Highlights (Carenado MSFS 2024 Version)
The "official" version is praised for its visual fidelity but has faced criticism regarding its initial flight model and system depth.
Visuals: Top-tier textures and 3D modeling typical of Carenado. The cockpit features high-detail steam gauges and realistic ray-traced shadows.
Audio: Mixed reviews; some find the sounds accurate, while others describe the engine noise as "thin" or "quiet" compared to real-world counterparts.
Systems: Simplified. The UNS-1 FMS has limited functionality, and many cockpit switches (like circuit breakers) are purely decorative. Performance Issues:
Underpowered: Reports suggest it struggles to reach its real-world cruise speeds and ceiling of 25,000 ft.
Trim/Balance: Initial versions felt extremely nose-heavy, requiring high trim settings to maintain level flight. 📦 Freeware Options (MSFS 2020)
For those sticking with MSFS 2020, there isn't a high-fidelity payware Saab 340. The main option is:
Saab 340 for MSFS2020 4K (Flightsim.to): A freeware project that uses the FSLTL external model paired with an Asobo CJ4 cockpit. It’s great for "look and feel" but lacks an authentic Saab cockpit or flight model. 🏁 Verdict
Buy if: You want a beautiful regional turboprop for "hand-flying" or light-medium cargo missions in MSFS 2024 career mode.
Skip if: You are a "study-level" enthusiast who needs a fully functional FMS and perfect performance-to-book numbers.
Watch a pilot's first look at the Saab 340's cockpit and flight performance in MSFS: Why The New Saab 340 Is The BEST MSFS2024 Plane YouTube• 1 Dec 2024 Why The New Saab 340 Is The BEST MSFS2024 Plane
The most sought-after variant is the Saab 340B Plus. This version includes the larger aft cargo door, upgraded interior, and—most importantly for MSFS—the ability to interface with modern GPS/FMS units.
In the real world, many Saab 340s were retrofitted with Garmin G600/G500 or Universal UNS-1Fw FMS systems. For MSFS, this means you could fly the Saab using the default MSFS GPS (for casual players) or a third-party FMS (for VATSIM professionals).
Before we dive into the pixels and polygons, it is essential to understand why the Saab 340 is such a beloved aircraft in the real world. Produced by Saab AB of Sweden, the 340 first took to the skies in 1983. It was designed to replace aging DC-3s and Convair 240s on short-haul, high-frequency routes.
Known affectionately as the "Swedish Screamer" (due to the distinct whine of its General Electric CT7 engines), the Saab 340 is a twin-engine turboprop capable of seating 34 to 37 passengers. Its unpressurized rear fuselage, advanced (for its time) de-icing boots, and robust handling characteristics made it a staple for regional carriers like American Eagle, Crossair, and Rex Airlines.
Pilots admire it for its "honest" flight dynamics—it is neither too automated (forcing you to manage energy) nor too archaic (featuring a modern EFIS suite). Simmers love it because it sits perfectly between the complexity of a study-level airliner and the fun of a GA twin. Wait for the X-Crafts version if: Microsoft has
