No such thing as "Free Flight"

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1

So if I understand correctly, the only way to load up an approach in the GPS is to set up a flight plan from the the main menu, select route, runway, approach, etc.?
If that is the case, this is highly unrealistic, never mind that in commercial aviation we can get new routes assigned (never mind diverting to a new airport), different approach assigned, and so on.

Even worse in the GA world, where I can freely take off from any airport, shoot an approach somewhere, and then decide to fly to the next airport to practice another approach. In any other sim, I can do that, even the stock GPS will let me load any approach I decide.

This is a huge step backward, so I am either wrong and there is a way to do what I am looking for, but if not, I seriously hope that this will be changed, I was hesitant getting FS2020 but I took the plunge, and I am regretting my decision so far.
IF anyone can let me know if there is a way I would greatly appreciate it.

2

Not sure what you’re looking to do. After creating a flight plan, on the left you can select Direct GPS, IFR, VFR, High Altitude Airways, VOR to VOR, etc. If you just want ‘free flight’ than choose a departure only and just takeoff. No need for an arrival location.

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3

@ KAZAKGYPSY

No.

You can do mandatory step also inside GPS or MFD as set departure airport ID and destination airport ID. Then logically if destination is clear from FPL, arrival and approach procedure can be selected :slight_smile: I say that this isn’t what I expect from sim, but this working from release day.

4

I usually set up my flight plans in the aircraft avionics, not on the pre-flight menu, and it works fine.
There is a known issue with activating an approach after you have passed the initial fix. There’s a workaround for that, which is explained in this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W1DwRRSjJ_M&t=695s

5

"So if I understand correctly, the only way to load up an approach in the GPS is to set up a flight plan from the the main menu, select route, runway, approach, etc.? "

No, you are mistaken.