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FLIGHTCONTROLSPOTTER Announced for MSFS 2024/2020

The Ultimate Spotting Experience Inside Microsoft Flight Simulator !

FlightControlTools, home of the renowned FlightControlReplay 5, is proud to unveil its latest innovation: FlightControlSpotter, a powerful and immersive new add-on for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 and 2020, due for release in Summer 2025.

Presented today at FlightSimExpo 2025 during FSelite Seminar Theatre, FlightControlSpotter redefines what it means to be a virtual aviation enthusiast. Developed by Fabio Merlo, the creator behind the best-in-class replay and recording tool FlightControlReplay, this brand-new product delivers an all-new perspective on aircraft observation and virtual plane spotting—right from inside the simulator.

What is FlightControlSpotter?
FlightControlSpotter is a fully integrated in-sim toolbar panel that lets users teleport instantly to air traffic hotspots around the world, capture custom views, and track aircraft in real time—without ever leaving the simulator. No external software is needed.

Who is it made for?
:right_arrow: A casual fan of flightsim : watch your own aircraft operation from innovative points of view, get the Tower view now in MSFS !
:right_arrow: AI Traffic virtual spotter : feed your curiosity watching at multiple airlines and varied aircraft models during take-offs and landings ballet.
:right_arrow: Attending an online event ? Observe other pilots performing their activities from a central or custom position.
:right_arrow: Content creator, Streamer, screenshot artist: transform MSFS into a dynamic, living airport experience for your community in Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 or 2020.

Features :
• Nearest Tower Spot View – Instantly switch to the tower view of the nearest airport with one click. Get the ICAO code and name displayed, and observe traffic live on the ground and in the skies.
• Spot View by ICAO – Choose from a list of all nearby airports (within a 200 NM radius), select a runway or parking stand, and jump right into the action. You can save and name each view for quick access in the future.
• Custom Spot View by Position – Save your current location—latitude, longitude, and altitude—while flying or on foot. Your spot is saved and can be revisited anytime.
• Manage Spot Views – Easily organize your saved views with the built-in Load Spot Views panel. Rename or delete views as needed. All data is stored locally on your machine for speed and privacy.

And best of all:
FlightControlSpotter uses the native MSFS drone camera, offering complete freedom of movement and cinematic control. Zoom, pan, rotate, and fly through the scene—then instantly return to your aircraft with the Take Plane Control shortcut.
Whether you’re capturing a perfect sunset touchdown, exploring busy hubs, or just relaxing while watching the skies, FlightControlSpotter is the new way to enjoy MSFS.

Release & Pricing Info
• FlightControlSpotter launches Summer 2025 at SIMMARKET for Windows PC, compatible with MSFS 2024 and 2020.
• Pricing will be very reasonable, with the following options:
o A bundle offer including FlightControlReplay 5,
o Standalone if you only want FlightControlSpotter without FlightControlReplay 5
o And a reduced upgrade price for existing FCR5 users.
FlightControlTools remains committed to bringing innovative and accessible tools to the flight simulation community.
• An Xbox version is planned via the Microsoft Flight Simulator Marketplace after the PC release.

Watch & Learn More
• :television: Official Trailer by AviationLads: Watch Now

• :studio_microphone: Introduction Video from FSExpo Seminar Theatre: View the Full Presentation

• :globe_with_meridians: Official Website: https://www.flightcontroltools.com





:eyes: FlightControlSpotter is coming soon!
After its world premiere at FSExpo 2025, we’re turning up the pressure: the ultimate spotting experience inside Microsoft Flight Simulator is on its way.

With FlightControlSpotter you’ll:
:white_check_mark: Jump instantly to the nearest Tower View
:white_check_mark: Save & manage your own custom spotting locations
:white_check_mark: Watch AI or online traffic like a real spotter
:white_check_mark: Enjoy full cinematic control with the native MSFS drone camera

Perfect for :airplane: aviation fans, content creators, streamers, screenshot artists, and anyone who loves to watch the ballet of take-offs and landings.

Developed by FlightControlTools, the creator of FlightControlReplay 5, this is plane spotting redefined.

:loudspeaker: Stay tuned – release news coming soon!

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FlightControlTools Releases FlightControlSpotter - The Ultimate Tower & Spotting Camera for MSFS 2024 / 2020

FlightControlTools proudly announces the release of FlightControlSpotter, a brand-new utility for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 and 2020, designed to bring the excitement of tower views and plane spotting – fast, simple, and immersive.

Perfect for active flight simmers willing to switch to the control tower position in a click, for screenshot artists, flightsim content creators, plane spotters of AI traffic, virtual pilots and controllers in multiplayer sessions, FlightControlSpotter transforms your simulator into a true virtual spotting platform. Fully integrated as an in-sim toolbar panel, the utility gives you instant access to tower perspectives, nearby airport views, or your own custom spotting locations anywhere in the world.

Key Features of FlightControlSpotter

  • Nearest Tower View – Instantly jump to the control tower of the closest airport. The panel displays ICAO code and airport name for quick access.
  • Spot View by ICAO – Browse airports within a 200 NM range, select a runway or parking position, and teleport to Tower or Spot View to watch live traffic. Save your favorite locations for later use.
  • Custom Spot Views – Define your own spotting location by capturing latitude, longitude, and altitude from your aircraft or avatar, then save it with a custom name. You can also manually insert coordinates and altitude of your choice.
  • Manage Views Easily – Load or delete your saved views with a simple panel interface. Everything is stored locally for quick retrieval.
  • Drone Camera Integration – Built on the default MSFS drone camera, giving you complete freedom of movement, zoom, and angle control.
  • Instant Return to Cockpit – Resume full aircraft control at any time with the Take Plane Control shortcut.

Pricing & Launch Offer

FlightControlSpotter is launching with special introductory pricing for the first month:

  • Standalone FlightControlSpotter – €12.50 (excl. VAT)
  • Bundle (FlightControlReplay 5 + FlightControlSpotter) – €29.99 (excl. VAT)
  • Upgrade Price for FlightControlReplay 5 owners – €10.00 (excl. VAT)

Starting September 29th, 2025, standard pricing will apply :

  • Standalone – €15.00 (excl. VAT)
  • Bundle – €32.99 (excl. VAT)
  • Upgrade – €12.50 (excl. VAT)

Availability

Released now, exclusively at SIMMARKET.com, for Windows PC only, Support MSFS24/20 (Xbox maybe later)
Elevate your flight sim experience—whether spotting heavy traffic at major hubs, exploring hidden airfields, or capturing stunning screenshots—FlightControlSpotter makes it all possible.

Quick User Guide PDF Free download here.

Official Trailer 4K by AviationLads

Gallery

FlightControlTools – FlightControlSpotter Update Released for MSFS 2020 & 2024

FlightControlTools is pleased to announce a new update for FlightControlSpotter, the recently released tower and spotting camera utility for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 and 2024. This update v1.01 focuses on stability improvements and fixes reported by the first wave of users, ensuring an even smoother experience for virtual spotters, screenshot artists, and simmers worldwide.

Changelog

  • Fixed bug with SpotView and Tower View enable/disable buttons management

  • Resolved issue of empty Tower View spot

This update further refines the immersive spotting and tower-view features that allow users to instantly switch perspectives, follow AI or multiplayer traffic, and enjoy the simulator from a whole new angle — all from an integrated in-sim toolbar panel.

Since its release, FlightControlSpotter quickly reached #2 in SIMMARKET’s weekly top sales, confirming the high interest among simmers.

Registered users are invited to uninstall first their existing utility.

Download the new version from the user account and run download the new installer package version 1.01.

Note that FlightControlSpotter is still available at a reduced introductory price until September 28th included.

I want also suggest you to watch this video where PraticallyGeek shows the potential of FlightControlSpotter

Best regards.

I am happy to announce that FlightControlSpotter (FCS) has just received its Update 1.0.2 :tada:. This update improves your spotting experience and fixes some details based on your feedback:

:wrench: Changelog 1.0.2

  • Removed pause when clicking on Tower or SpotView

  • Font size now adjusts according to your resolution

  • Drone Zoom set to 70% for smoother following of the user’s aircraft

  • Improved altitude calculation for Tower and SpotView

With these refinements, spotting your favorite flights has never felt so smooth and immersive.

:light_bulb: If you want to see FCS in action, check out Practically Geek’s latest stream featuring spotting at Heathrow using FlightControlSpotter.

:rocket: The community response has been fantastic – FlightControlSpotter has already been hitting between Top 3 and Top 5 sales! A big thank you to everyone who has supported and shared their spotting adventures.

:warning: Important – Last Week of Launch Edition Pricing!
This is your final chance to get FlightControlSpotter at the special introductory price before it increases:

  • Standalone: €12.50 (excl. VAT)

  • Bundle (FlightControlReplay 5 + FlightControlSpotter): €29.99 (excl. VAT)

  • Upgrade: €9.99 (excl. VAT) if you already own FlightControlReplay 5

:shopping_cart: Order Now on SIMMARKET:
:backhand_index_pointing_right: https://secure.simmarket.com/flightcontroltools-flightcontrolspotter-msfs.phtml

FlightControlSpotter transforms the way you enjoy the skies in MSFS, whether you’re following your own flights or just enjoying real spotting sessions with the community. Don’t miss the chance to be part of the growing group of virtual spotters!

FlightControlSpotter is on the horizon — bringing you Virtual Spotting: Easy Anywhere inside Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 & 2020.

:movie_camera: Instantly jump to Tower Views, save custom spotting locations, track AI or online traffic, and enjoy cinematic control with the native MSFS drone camera.

:eyes: Whether you’re a casual simmer, content creator, or hardcore spotter — this is the tool that finally makes virtual plane spotting simple, immersive, and fun.

:loudspeaker: Stay tuned here for updates on release plans from FlightControlTools!

FlightControlReplay 5 & FlightControlSpotter – Community Highlights + Offer Extension

Hi everyone!

This week, content creator #PracticallyGeek shared a new video reel showcasing the creative power of FlightControlReplay 5 and FlightControlSpotter, noting that both tools “give you excellent options when it comes to creating videos like this.”

:television: Watch the reel here:
:link: Facebook – https://fb.watch/CQPtCNrsP0/
:link: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/practicallygeek/reel/DP_YQhkjDX9/

We’re also happy to announce that, following the fantastic response from the community, the Reduced Price Launch offer for FlightControlSpotter has been extended! :tada:
Order heređź›’ https://secure.simmarket.com/merlo-fabio.mhtml

:airplane_departure: FlightControlReplay 5 – Record, replay, and create cinematic flights in MSFS 2024/2020 and P3D.
:eyes: FlightControlSpotter – Experience “Virtual Spotting: Easy Anywhere” and explore airports like never before.

Thank you for your continued support — and stay tuned for more community content and updates!

:movie_camera: New Video – Explore FlightControlSpotter’s Features

A brand-new reel is out, showcasing the in-sim features that make FlightControlSpotter a must-have for every virtual aviation enthusiast:
:television: Watch here :right_arrow:

Included Features in MSFS 2024/2020:

  • :office_building: Nearest Tower View – Instantly jump to the closest airport tower, with ICAO code and name displayed.

  • :globe_showing_europe_africa: Spot View by ICAO – Browse airports within 200 NM, pick a runway or parking spot, and teleport straight to the action. Save your favorites for quick access.

  • :round_pushpin: Custom Spot Views – Define your own viewing positions (lat/long/alt) or save any existing preset from the Spotter database with custom names.

  • :card_index_dividers: Manage Your Views – Load, rename, or delete stored locations easily from the in-sim panel. All data stays local for privacy and speed.

  • :movie_camera: Drone Camera Integration – Full cinematic control using the MSFS drone camera for fluid pans, zooms, and angles.

  • :joystick: Quick Return to Cockpit – Instantly regain full control of your aircraft at any time with one shortcut.


:airplane_departure: FlightControlReplay 5 – Create, replay, and record your best flights with precision.
:eyes: FlightControlSpotter – Virtual Spotting: Easy Anywhere.
:clapper_board: Bundle them together for the ultimate creative and observation experience in MSFS!

:backhand_index_pointing_right: Don’t miss the 20% OFF sale, running until November 2!

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Hi !

Ready for FlightControlSpotter free update V1.2 ? There will be a great feature added ! Stay tuned !

FlightControlSpotter – Smarter Views, Anywhere You Fly

FlightControlSpotter continues to evolve into a next-generation camera and spotting system for Microsoft Flight Simulator.

:magnifying_glass_tilted_left: POIs Management – Preview of v1.1

The upcoming v1.1 update introduces an advanced Points of Interest management system designed for exploration and aircraft spotting.

  • Famous POIs are automatically detected around your current position

  • Instantly switch to a Spot View with a single click

  • Create and save custom POIs

    • Scenic landscape panoramas

    • Airport runway spotting locations

    • Favorite scenery viewpoints

This system turns every flight into a curated visual experience, whether you are cruising remote coastlines or tracking traffic near busy hubs.

:movie_camera: Built for MSFS 2024 — Ready Today

FlightControlSpotter is already fully operational and reliable in MSFS 2024 on PC.

  • Designed with MSFS 2024 architecture in mind

  • Actively prepared for official Microsoft Flight Simulator Marketplace release

  • Xbox support planned, bringing advanced camera control to console pilots

This is not a concept — it is a platform moving forward with the simulator.

:airplane: Universal Aircraft Compatibility

FlightControlSpotter works seamlessly with all aircraft:

  • Default aircraft

  • Third-party add-ons

  • General aviation, airliners, military, helicopters

No profiles. No limitations. Just consistent behavior across your entire hangar.

More to come soon.
v1.1 is approaching.

FlightControlSpotter Lands on the Microsoft Marketplace :airplane::video_game::tokyo_tower:

FlightControlSpotter, the advanced in-sim plane spotting and tower camera utility from FlightControlTools, reaches a major milestone with its official launch on the Microsoft Flight Simulator Marketplace.

Available for MSFS 2020 and MSFS 2024, this is the first time FlightControlSpotter becomes accessible directly through the Marketplace—including full Xbox Series X|S support when purchased there. The application has been specifically coded and tested for Xbox, ensuring smooth operation on console hardware.

This release combines three major announcements in one:

  • Microsoft Marketplace launch of FlightControlSpotter MSFS 2020 / 2024

  • Xbox console support via the Marketplace version

  • Update v1.1, now available

For existing SIMMARKET customers, update v1.1 is available immediately.
New Marketplace customers will start directly with version 1.1.

Update v1.1 highlights
At the heart of v1.1 is the new Point of Interests (POI) management system.
FlightControlSpotter can now detect nearby landmarks and POIs and use them as spotting positions, while also allowing users to move freely and create their own custom spot views.

Custom positions can be named, saved, loaded, and managed directly from the in-sim panel—ideal for:

  • Dedicated plane spotting positions near major international airports

  • Jury or observer viewpoints during multiplayer bush or group sessions

  • Scenic locations such as runway thresholds, coastlines, or dramatic approach paths

Changelog v1.1

  • Added Point of Interests (POI) management

  • Fixed Spot View and Tower View enable/disable button behavior

  • Resolved empty Tower View spot issue

  • Removed automatic pause when selecting Tower or Spot View

  • Font size now adapts to screen resolution

  • Drone zoom set to 70% for improved aircraft tracking

  • Adjusted altitude calculation for Tower and Spot Views

  • Introduced aircraft pause when switching to a Spot View beyond 30 NM

Fully integrated as an in-sim toolbar panel and built on the native MSFS drone camera, FlightControlSpotter offers full freedom of movement, instant access to towers and airports, and a one-click return to the cockpit.

Plane spotting inside Microsoft Flight Simulator is entering a new phase—now integrated, console-ready, and more flexible than ever.

:shopping_cart: SIMMARKET product page
https://secure.simmarket.com/fabio-merlo-flightcontrolspotter-msfs2420.phtml

:blue_book: Free Quick User Guide (PDF)
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/wkbnrbkyev0wlsjlz9kpa/FlightControlSpotter-Quick-User-Guide-v1.1.pdf?rlkey=zz7e5mbb409qvhz6gtf8don8v&st=r73e89qy&dl=0

:globe_with_meridians: FlightControlTools official website
https://www.flightcontroltools.com

:play_button: Official Trailer 4K by AviationLads
https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/vy19k0SPpm8

:newspaper: Featured interview on FSelite
FSelite recently published an in-depth interview focusing on the success of FlightControlReplay and the vision behind FlightControlSpotter, including how virtual plane spotting evolved into a dedicated experience within Microsoft Flight Simulator.

Interview link:

:movie_camera: Live virtual plane spotting — MSFS 2024
Practically Geek showcased live virtual plane spotting at Atlanta Hartsfield–Jackson (KATL) in Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, using real-time traffic with PSXT and RealTraffic. The stream demonstrates FlightControlSpotter in a dense, realistic traffic environment during an extended spotting session.

Live stream (timestamped):

:italy: Italian video review — Flight Horizon
Italian creator Flight Horizon published a video review focused on the arrival of FlightControlSpotter on Xbox via the MSFS 2024 Marketplace.

FINALMENTE su Xbox! FlightControl Spotter per MSFS 2024 (Marketplace)

Flight Horizon presents FlightControlSpotter as a dedicated tool for experiencing Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 from a spotter’s perspective. Originally available on PC, the addon is now accessible on Xbox through the Marketplace, removing complex setup requirements and making aircraft observation and cinematic content creation available to console users. The review highlights use cases such as runway spotting and traffic observation at airports such as Rome Fiumicino (LIRF).

Hi !

I ll be at FSWEEKEND Lelystad next weekend (inside Simmarket booth) with my next iteration of FlightControlReplay and FlightControlSpotter ! Available alpha build for both to test it and give me feedback ! And we will be a new teaser video on FSELITE Stage on Saturday and Sunday !

Come to Simmarket space ! I ll be available discuss about future and new features coming with FlightControlReplay and FlightControlSpotter !

Fabio

Inside the FlightControlTools Lab - FSWeekend 2026 Recap

From the historic halls of the Aviodrome Aviation Museum, FlightControlTools stepped into the spotlight with a forward-looking reveal of its next-generation toolkit.

::clapper_board:: FlightControlReplay 6 (In Development)
A sharper workflow. A cleaner interface. Built for speed and precision.
— Redesigned UI for fluid navigation

— Slider-based controls for instant adjustments

— New Fly-By Camera tracking live flights with AI traffic

— Cinematic Mode for unrestricted, film-style capture

This is not just replay. This is storytelling in motion.

::camera_with_flash:: FlightControlSpotter 2 (In Development)

Precision meets consistency for virtual spotters.

— Fly-By Camera integrated into Spot View

— Save custom drone camera positions

— Repeat perfect shots across sessions And yes

— this update will lands FREE for existing users.

::test_tube:: Live Alpha. Real Feedback. Tested hands-on during FlightSimWeekend 2026, both tools are evolving with direct input from the community — shaping features where it matters: in real workflows.

::globe_showing_europe_africa:: Release windows
— FlightControlReplay 6 → 2026

— FlightControlSpotter 2 → April–May 2026

Stay locked. The next level of replay and spotting is on final approach.

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:airplane: Spotting is about to level up.

FlightControlSpotter update v2 is coming soon for MSFS 2024.

This update improves your spotting experience, and how you track, position, and interact with traffic from the ground:

:movie_camera: Fly-By Camera
New fly-by views of your aircraft in live operations, and also to search and monitor AI Traffic aircraft nearby.

:eyes: Camera Spot Preview
Quickly preview and position your spotting cameras before capturing the action.

:round_pushpin: Save Drone Position (Lat / Lon / Alt)
Capture precise drone coordinates and instantly reload your custom camera spots.

:vertical_traffic_light: AI Traffic Interaction
Stay connected to live traffic for more controlled, realistic tracking.

Designed for spotters who want precision, speed, and cinematic control from the ground.

FlightControlSpotter is available on PC & Xbox
SIMMARKET + in-sim Marketplace

**
FlightControlSpotter V2.1.1 – Fly-By Update is now LIVE** at SIMMARKET for MSFS24 users and at Microsoft Marketplace for both PC and XBOX !

The new update introduces an entirely new way to experience aircraft spotting and cinematic traffic tracking directly inside Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024.

:fire: New Features

  • New Fly-By Camera for user aircraft
  • New Fly-By Camera for AI Traffic aircraft tracking with nearby traffic detection
  • New SpotView Camera with drone camera controls
  • New Drone Camera positions Save/Load system

The Fly-By system allows smooth cinematic tracking during departures, arrivals and taxi operations, while AI Traffic target tracking opens a brand-new immersive spotting experience around busy airports and fly-in events.

:shopping_cart: Available now via SIMMARKET, and currently on sale 20% OFF:

:movie_camera: Official Trailer:

A huge thank you to the community for the support and feedback during development. Enjoy the update and share your screenshots and videos with us!

Livestream Preview today by the content creator Practically Geek on YouTube May 15th 2026 08:30pm CET (07:30pm UK)
Discover the new cinematic Fly-By Camera system, AI Traffic tracking, SpotView improvements and more - live in action - around busy airports and realistic spotting environments.

Join the livestream now — or watch the replay anytime afterward here:
:play_button: https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/cEhvkPIB8tE

Now FlightControlSpotter V2 – Fly-By Update is now LIVE** at Microsoft MSFS2024 MArketplace for both PC and XBOX !

Hi,

I can confirm that FlightControlSpotter v2 - FlyBy camera view works great with VATSIM traffic !

thanks

Fabio

:airplane: FlightControlSpotter V2 – MSFS 2024/2020 :fire:
PC + XBOX Compatible

Bring your airports to life with immersive AI traffic fly-by action across the globe. FlightControlSpotter V2 delivers cinematic tracking cameras and dynamic spotting views fully compatible with all major AI traffic add-ons in Microsoft Flight Simulator. :earth_africa::camera_with_flash:

From busy international hubs to regional airfields, enjoy smooth real-time fly-bys as AI aircraft taxi, depart, and land around you. Capture realistic apron movement, final approaches, and airside atmosphere like a true aviation spotter.

:star: Key Features

  • AI Traffic Fly-By Camera System
  • Compatible with all major AI traffic add-ons
  • Dynamic aircraft tracking
  • Real-time SpotCam immersion
  • Simulate plane spotting in your custom locations
  • Optimized for MSFS 2024, most features available also in MSFS 2020 (except Fly-by Cam, Save drone camera positions)
  • PC + XBOX support

:movie_camera: Perfect for AI traffic enthusiasts, virtual spotters, content creators, and livestream sessions.

:shopping_cart: Available now on SIMMARKET and in the Microsoft Marketplace