MSFS 2024 Sim Update 5 Beta Gets Second Build with EFB Overhaul and 737 MAX Improvements
The latest Sim Update 5 beta build brings smarter flight planning with ICAO/FAA/EASA fuel reserves, refined VNAV logic, an openable 737 MAX cockpit door, and VR camera fixes.
Microsoft and Asobo have dropped a second beta build (1.7.9.0) for Sim Update 5, and while the first build was about broad system-wide fixes, this one digs into the details — particularly the EFB and the default Boeing 737 MAX 8.
EFB and Flight Planning
The built-in flight planner has received some genuinely useful improvements:
- Improved geometric descent path logic — prevents the aircraft from drifting off the intended vertical profile
- Respects external data — the EFB no longer overwrites cruise altitudes imported from SimBrief or cloud-saved plans (as long as they're within the performance envelope)
- Regional fuel reserve calculations — new options for ICAO, FAA, and EASA standards, adding a level of realism usually reserved for third-party addons
Boeing 737 MAX 8 Refinements
The default 737 MAX continues maturing:
- Improved LNAV sequencing during departures — no more premature flight plan advancement while still on the ground
- Openable cockpit door — a small but welcome immersion detail
- Improved LOD models for cabin and seats
- VR camera adjustments for the MAX and Cabri G2
Watch Out: ATC Regression
Important caveat — this beta has a known ATC regression. Controllers will strictly enforce your filed altitude with zero tolerance for deviations. If you climb or descend for weather, expect persistent demands to return to your filed level. Departure clearances may also assign arbitrary altitudes. If you rely on default ATC, you might want to wait for the next sub-build.
Technical and World Fixes
The update also includes regional airport data corrections and various technical fixes across the board. As always with betas, file bug reports through the official channels if you spot issues.
