2020 — Saab 340 Msfs

The Saab 340 is available in Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024

as part of the Premium Deluxe Edition, developed by Carenado. While there is no official "native" Saab 340 for MSFS 2020, community-made freeware versions often utilize existing cockpits (like the Beechcraft King Air 350i or Cessna Citation CJ4) to provide a flyable experience in that version.  1. Vital Pre-Flight Actions 

Remove the Gust Lock: Located next to the throttle quadrant, this must be removed to unlock control surface movement.

Weight & Balance: For realistic operations, be mindful of the tail stand. If the aircraft is heavily loaded in the rear, it may rest on its tail until engine power is applied to drop the nose.

Simbrief Integration: Use a tailored Simbrief profile for the Saab 340B to ensure accurate fuel and performance planning.  2. Engine Startup & Systems 

The Saab 340 is a complex turboprop requiring a specific sequence to avoid "hot starts" or electrical issues. 

Electrical Power: Turn on both batteries and engage both Avionics Switches (do not just use the "ESS" bus).

Hydraulics & Bleed Air: Ensure the hydraulic pumps and bleed air systems are configured before departure.

Engine Start: Use the starter switches on the overhead panel. Note that in some versions, starter sounds may be missing, so monitor your ITT and RPM gauges closely.

CTOT (Continuous Take-off Thrust): Set the CTOT system to "ON" for takeoff to ensure the engines deliver the required power automatically.  3. Navigation and FMS 

First look at the Saab 340 in Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024

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) saab 340 msfs 2020

: 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

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 The Saab 340 is available in Microsoft Flight

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 transitioned from a highly anticipated missing link in the Microsoft Flight Simulator (MSFS) 2020

lineup to a multi-option regional turboprop available across both the 2020 and 2024 versions of the simulator

. While it began as a third-party development project, its official inclusion in MSFS 2024 (which backports some aircraft

to MSFS 2020) and various freeware/payware releases have finally filled the void for this Swedish workhorse. Available Versions and Developers

As of early 2026, virtual pilots have several ways to fly the Saab 340 in MSFS 2020: Microsoft / Carenado Saab 340B : Originally released as a default aircraft for the Premium Deluxe Edition of MSFS 2024, this highly detailed model is often backported to MSFS 2020 for users with the appropriate license. NextGen Simulations Saab 340 & 2000

: A long-term project that survived the release of the "default" version. It features both the 340 and the larger Saab 2000, with a focus on custom flight instrumentation and multiple GPS options like GNS and GTNXi. Freeware Options : Communities like Flightsim.to

offer a Saab 340 aircraft for MSFS 2020 that utilizes 4K textures and an Asobo CJ4 cockpit as a functional base. Key Features and Simulation Depth

The Saab 340 in MSFS is characterized by its unique "Swedish-American" design, blending regional efficiency with rugged military-grade airframe roots. Is Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 Dead?

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

• Fictional Representation: The Saab 340 in MSFS 2020 is a fictional representation, not officially endorsed by Saab or any other manufacturer.
• Exterior and Interior Models: The aircraft features a detailed exterior and interior model, with accurate textures and liveries.
• Flight Dynamics: The Saab 340's flight dynamics are based on real-world data, providing a realistic flying experience.

Performance

• Engines: The Saab 340 is powered by two turboprop engines, producing 1,400 shp each.
• Cruise Speed: The aircraft has a cruise speed of around 250-270 knots (463-500 km/h).
• Service Ceiling: The Saab 340 has a service ceiling of around 25,000 feet (7,620 meters).
• Range: The aircraft has a range of approximately 1,200 nautical miles (2,222 kilometers).

Flying Experience

• Handling: The Saab 340 is known for its stable and responsive handling, making it a joy to fly.
• Takeoff and Landing: The aircraft's takeoff and landing procedures are realistic and challenging, requiring careful attention to configuration and speed.
• Systems Management: The Saab 340's systems, such as the electrical and hydraulic systems, require management during flight, adding to the realism and immersion.

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

• Familiarization: Spend time familiarizing yourself with the aircraft's systems, performance, and handling before embarking on longer flights.
• Configuration: Pay attention to aircraft configuration, such as flap and gear settings, to optimize performance and safety.
• Weather and Environmental Factors: Be prepared for the effects of weather and environmental factors, such as turbulence and icing conditions, on the aircraft's performance and handling.

The "Saab 340B Plus" – The Definitive Version

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).

Why the Saab 340? The Swedish Legend

Before we discuss the MSFS versions, let’s appreciate the machine. The Saab 340 (often affectionately called the "Saab 340A/B") is a twin-engine turboprop produced in Sweden between 1983 and 1999. It seats 34-37 passengers and became the backbone of regional airlines like American Eagle, Rex (Regional Express), Crossair, and Silver Airways.

Why simmers crave it:

• The Pilots' Airplane: Unlike modern fly-by-wire jets, the Saab 340 is a hands-on, analog-to-glass hybrid (depending on the variant). It requires real energy management.
• The "No Autothrottle" Challenge: You are the autothrottle. In turbulance, managing power levers, condition levers, and prop RPM keeps you busier than any Airbus sidestick.
• Short & Rough Field Capability: It is designed to fly into tiny, windswept airports (London City, Aspen, Bar Harbor). That is the essence of MSFS 2020’s detailed world.

The Saab 340 in MSFS 2020: The Ultimate Guide to the Swedish Workhorse

For years, the Microsoft Flight Simulator (MSFS) 2020 hangar has been dominated by two extremes: the glass-cockpit airliners (A320, 787) and the low-and-slow general aviation titans (Cessna 172, Caravan). Nestled in the "Goldilocks zone" of regional turboprop aviation is a gap that many simmers have been desperately waiting to see filled: the legendary Saab 340.

As of the current MSFS 2020 ecosystem, the status of the Saab 340 has shifted from "vaporware hope" to "highly anticipated reality." This article dives deep into what the Saab 340 is, why it matters for sim pilots, which versions are available now, and which upcoming renditions will define the future of regional flying in the simulator.

Recommended Routes for the Saab 340

To get the most out of your Saab 340 MSFS 2020 experience, do not fly it from New York to London. This is a regional beast. Here are the top three "realistic" routes to fly: Fictional Representation : The Saab 340 in MSFS

1. Seattle (KSEA) to Vancouver (CYVR): The Pacific Northwest scenery combined with the short hop makes for a perfect 45-minute flight. Approach into CYVR over the water is stunning at dusk.
2. Sydney (YSSY) to Dubbo (YSDU): Replicate the real-world Rex Airlines operations. A 300nm flight that takes you over the Blue Mountains requires careful fuel planning.
3. Lugano (LSZA) to Zurich (LSZH): Flying the Saab 340 through the Swiss Alps is the ultimate test of manual flying. The aircraft handles turbulence well, but the narrow valleys demand precision.