PMDG Pushes WASM Crash Fixes and Teases 737 Visual Overhaul for MSFS 2024
A new update for the PMDG 737NG fleet targets the stubborn WASM crash issue, while the developer confirms a significant exterior model detail update is in final testing.
WASM crashes have been a thorn in the side of PMDG 737 owners since the 737-800 launched for MSFS 2024 back in December. You know the one: deep into a flight, maybe just past top of descent, and suddenly the cockpit instruments all go red. The sim keeps running but the avionics are effectively dead.
PMDG has now pushed an update across the 737-600, 737-800, and 737-900 for MSFS 2024, with WASM stability as its primary focus.
The Root Cause
According to PMDG's Robert Randazzo, WASM crashes stem from instability in the way MSFS allocates dynamic memory for third-party add-ons during normal operation. The fix, for now, is about minimizing exposure rather than eliminating the root cause entirely.
This update includes a specific fix for a scenario the team identified: a flight path editing situation believed responsible for late-in-flight crashes when manipulating the flight path after sequencing the first fix on a STAR. Additional protections have been added for situations where the PMDG 737 runs alongside other add-on products that appeared frequently in crash reports.
PMDG says the goal is "measurable progress," not a complete solution, and they continue to hope for a platform-level fix from Microsoft and Asobo.
Visual Overhaul Coming
The more exciting news is what's next. Back when the 737-800 released in December, PMDG promised an exterior model detail update that was still pending. That update is now in final testing.
PMDG says it will significantly increase the exterior detail level over what was possible in MSFS 2020, taking fuller advantage of the MSFS 2024 rendering platform. Originally expected in late February, Robert Randazzo held it back after being unsatisfied with certain areas.
It will ship alongside the PMDG 737-700 release, then roll out to the 600, 800, and 900 variants.
777 Update Also Coming
A 777 fleet-wide update was in testing over the weekend of March 12, rolling in the same WASM crash protections developed for the 737, plus changes accumulated since the last 777 update in September.
To update, open the PMDG Operations Center and install the latest available build.
