[1.29.28.0] Clean install on a new PC : You are missing packages that are essential to run Microsoft Flight Simulator. Please update the application and try again

Yes, managed to get it working by removing the program and then reinstalling from Steam. For other Steam users who might be experiencing this problem, note that uninstalling from Steam is not enough. You need to uninstall the app from your computer by going to Add or Remove Programs in Windows and uninstalling from there.