SimBrief Flight Planning Masterclass

Module Overview

Welcome to the first module of the Flight Sim Mastery Academy.

Before learning how to operate the PMDG 737, Fenix A320 family, FlyByWire A32NX or iniBuilds aircraft, students need to understand how to create a complete and realistic flight plan.

SimBrief is an online flight-planning system designed for flight simulation. It can calculate routes, fuel, payload, flight time, cruise altitude, alternates and operational flight plans using real-world weather information. It supports both Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 and Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, along with direct integrations in many third-party aircraft.  

During this module, students will learn how to:

  • Create and configure a SimBrief account.
  • Prepare SimBrief for MSFS 2020 and MSFS 2024.
  • Install optional SimBrief and Navigraph software.
  • Select the correct aircraft profile.
  • Generate a realistic Operational Flight Plan.
  • Understand routes, fuel, payload and alternates.
  • Import plans into supported aircraft.
  • Export plans for the simulator and other programs.
  • Detect navigation-data mismatches.
  • Confirm that SimBrief is not creating loading, compatibility or performance problems.

Module Objectives

By the end of Module 1, students will be able to:

Set up SimBrief for MSFS 2020 and MSFS 2024.

Understand the difference between the SimBrief website, SimBrief Downloader and SimBrief Dispatch.

Create a complete airline-style flight plan.

Select and customise aircraft airframes.

Plan fuel, payload, cruise altitude and alternates.

Read the most important sections of an Operational Flight Plan.

import the plan into supported PMDG, Fenix, FlyByWire and iniBuilds aircraft.

Export flight-plan files for software that does not support direct import.

Identify AIRAC and route discrepancies.

Test SimBrief integrations for stability and performance.

The Three-Step Training Structure

Step 1 – Installation and Account Setup

Students prepare SimBrief and the optional supporting software for MSFS 2020 and MSFS 2024.

Step 2 – Configuration and Flight Planning

Students create, understand and import a complete Operational Flight Plan.

Step 3 – Performance and Compatibility Testing

Students verify route accuracy, aircraft integration, loading behaviour and system impact.

STEP 1

Installing and Setting Up SimBrief

1. Understanding the SimBrief Ecosystem

SimBrief is not a conventional aircraft add-on that must always be placed inside the Community Folder.

Its main flight-planning system runs through a web browser. You create and generate the flight plan online, after which the completed plan can be:

  • Read through the website.
  • Downloaded as a PDF.
  • Imported directly into supported aircraft.
  • Exported as a simulator flight-plan file.
  • Downloaded automatically through SimBrief Downloader.
  • Viewed through compatible cockpit tablets or avionics.
  • Accessed through SimBrief Dispatch where supported.

SimBrief generates briefing packages intended to resemble airline operational documents while calculating fuel, flight time and performance information from weather and route data.  

2. SimBrief and Navigraph: The Difference

SimBrief and Navigraph work closely together, but they perform different primary jobs.

SimBrief

SimBrief is mainly used for:

  • Route generation.
  • Fuel planning.
  • Payload planning.
  • Operational Flight Plans.
  • Aircraft profiles.
  • Weather information.
  • NOTAM information.
  • Flight-plan export.
  • Aircraft import.

Navigraph

Navigraph is mainly used for:

  • Navigation charts.
  • Airport diagrams.
  • SID charts.
  • STAR charts.
  • Approach plates.
  • En-route charts.
  • Moving maps.
  • Updated navigation data.
  • Avionics integrations.

A SimBrief account can be used without a paid Navigraph subscription. However, a Navigraph subscription provides current navigation data and broader chart functionality.

Navigraph Hub is the application used to install current Navigraph navigation data and supported avionics or in-game integrations for MSFS 2020 and MSFS 2024.  

3. Creating a SimBrief Account

Step 1

Open the official SimBrief or Navigraph website.

Step 2

Create or sign into your Navigraph account.

SimBrief is operated through the Navigraph account system, so the same account credentials are normally used across the supported services.

Step 3

Open SimBrief Dispatch.

Step 4

Locate your personal account information.

Students should record:

  • SimBrief username.
  • SimBrief Pilot ID or user ID where shown.
  • Navigraph account email.
  • Subscription status.
  • Preferred units.

Aircraft may ask for either the SimBrief username or numerical Pilot ID. Record both so they are available during future aircraft modules.

4. Setting Your Personal Preferences

Open the SimBrief account settings and review the available options.

Configure:

Units

Choose either:

  • Kilograms.
  • Pounds.

Use the same units across:

  • SimBrief.
  • Aircraft EFB.
  • FMC or MCDU.
  • Payload application.
  • Performance calculator.

A mismatch between kilograms and pounds can create serious fuel and payload errors.

Date and Time

Confirm that the flight-planning date and departure time are correct.

SimBrief uses the departure time when gathering weather and calculating the plan.

Default Airline Information

Where relevant, enter:

  • Airline code.
  • Flight number.
  • Aircraft registration.
  • Captain name.
  • Dispatcher name.

These fields primarily improve the realism of the generated Operational Flight Plan.

5. Do You Need to Install Anything?

For many aircraft, no separate flight-plan downloader is required.

Modern supported aircraft can often retrieve the latest generated plan directly using the student’s SimBrief username or Pilot ID.

Examples may include supported versions of:

  • PMDG aircraft.
  • Fenix aircraft.
  • FlyByWire aircraft.
  • iniBuilds aircraft.

The precise import method depends on the aircraft and simulator version. A SimBrief integration inside one aircraft does not guarantee that every aircraft or the simulator’s default avionics can import the same plan directly.

6. Installing SimBrief Downloader

SimBrief Downloader is useful when an aircraft or external program requires a locally saved flight-plan file.

It can automatically export the latest generated plan into selected folders.

Typical Uses

  • Saving .PLN files.
  • Saving PMDG route files.
  • Exporting files for older aircraft.
  • Sending plans to external utilities.
  • Maintaining a local Operational Flight Plan archive.

Installation Procedure

  1. Download SimBrief Downloader from the official Navigraph downloads area.
  2. Run the installer.
  3. Sign in where required.
  4. Open the export-format list.
  5. Enable only the formats you genuinely use.
  6. Select the destination folder for each format.
  7. Generate a new SimBrief flight.
  8. Confirm the files are exported correctly.

Official Navigraph downloads include SimBrief-related installers and supporting programs.  

7. MSFS 2020 Flight-Plan Export

For Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020, the standard simulator flight-plan format is generally exported as a .PLN file.

The exact folder depends on:

  • Microsoft Store installation.
  • Steam installation.
  • Custom folder locations.
  • Whether the plan will be loaded manually.

Manual MSFS 2020 Method

  1. Generate the SimBrief plan.
  2. Open the download section.
  3. Download the Microsoft Flight Simulator .PLN format.
  4. Save it in a clearly labelled flight-plan folder.
  5. Open MSFS 2020.
  6. Open the World Map.
  7. Select Load/Save.
  8. Load the downloaded plan.
  9. Review the route before starting the flight.

Important Limitation

Loading a plan into the World Map and importing it into the aircraft’s FMC are not always the same thing.

For example, a complex aircraft may use its own SimBrief import while the simulator World Map separately controls default ATC.

This can result in:

  • The aircraft FMC containing one route.
  • The World Map containing another route.
  • Default ATC not recognising the aircraft’s imported route.

Students must understand which system controls each part of the flight.

8. MSFS 2024 SimBrief Options

MSFS 2024 introduces a more extensive Electronic Flight Bag environment.

Navigraph released SimBrief Dispatch for MSFS, allowing SimBrief planning functionality to be accessed through supported simulator interfaces. SimBrief Dispatch was made available for MSFS 2024 through the simulator’s EFB environment, with its integration continuing to develop.  

Depending on the current software version and aircraft, students may use one or more of the following:

  • The SimBrief website.
  • SimBrief Dispatch within the EFB.
  • The aircraft’s own EFB SimBrief page.
  • The aircraft FMC or MCDU import function.
  • A locally exported flight-plan file.
  • The MSFS 2024 native flight planner.

9. Installing SimBrief Dispatch

Where available for the student’s account and simulator version:

  1. Install Navigraph Hub.
  2. Sign into the correct Navigraph account.
  3. Locate the SimBrief Dispatch or MSFS integration product.
  4. Select the MSFS 2020 or MSFS 2024 installation as appropriate.
  5. Complete the installation.
  6. Launch the simulator.
  7. Open the relevant EFB or toolbar area.
  8. Confirm that SimBrief Dispatch appears.
  9. Sign in and generate or retrieve a test flight.

Navigraph states that supported SimBrief Dispatch plugins can be installed through Navigraph Hub for subscribed users.  

10. Important MSFS 2024 Difference

Do not assume that importing a route into the MSFS 2024 EFB automatically sends the complete route into every aircraft’s avionics.

There may be three separate planning layers:

Layer 1 – SimBrief Plan

The route and Operational Flight Plan generated through SimBrief.

Layer 2 – Simulator EFB or World Planner

The plan recognised by MSFS 2024’s own flight-planning and ATC systems.

Layer 3 – Aircraft Avionics

The plan loaded into the aircraft’s FMC, MCDU or FMS.

Some aircraft can synchronise these layers more fully than others.

Always follow the method recommended by the aircraft developer.

11. Installing Navigraph Hub

Navigraph Hub is not required merely to create a SimBrief flight, but it becomes useful when students want:

  • Current navigation data.
  • Charts integrations.
  • Avionics plugins.
  • In-game Navigraph panels.
  • SimBrief Dispatch components.

Installation Procedure

  1. Download Navigraph Hub from the official Navigraph website.
  2. Install it on Windows.
  3. Sign into your Navigraph account.
  4. Allow it to detect MSFS 2020 and MSFS 2024.
  5. Review the available simulator integrations.
  6. Install only the products required for your setup.
  7. Confirm that the correct simulator version is selected.

Navigraph Hub supports updating navigation data in both MSFS 2020 and MSFS 2024.  

12. Avoiding Duplicate Installations

Students who own both MSFS 2020 and MSFS 2024 must pay close attention to installation paths.

Avoid:

  • Installing an MSFS 2020 package into the MSFS 2024 Community Folder.
  • Installing an MSFS 2024 package into MSFS 2020.
  • Keeping manually installed and Hub-installed versions active together.
  • Retaining old beta versions after moving to an official version.
  • Exporting files to the wrong simulator directory.
Flight Plans
├── MSFS 2020
├── MSFS 2024
├── PMDG
├── Fenix
├── FlyByWire
├── iniBuilds
└── OFP Archive


13. Confirming the Installation

Complete the following installation test:

  1. Sign into SimBrief.
  2. Create a basic route.
  3. Generate the Operational Flight Plan.
  4. Confirm that the OFP opens.
  5. Confirm that the PDF downloads.
  6. Confirm that SimBrief Downloader exports any enabled formats.
  7. Open MSFS 2020 or MSFS 2024.
  8. Confirm that the required SimBrief panel or aircraft import function is visible.
  9. Confirm that the correct account is linked.

Do not begin advanced planning until this test is successful.

STEP 2

Configuring SimBrief and Building a Complete Flight Plan

14. Creating Your First Flight

Open SimBrief and select the option to create a new flight.

You will be presented with several planning fields.

The exact layout may change over time, but the planning principles remain the same.

15. Departure and Arrival Airports

Enter the four-letter ICAO airport code.

 

Departure: EGLL
Arrival: LEPA

 

 

This creates a flight from London Heathrow to Palma de Mallorca.

Confirm that you have selected the correct airport. Similar names or regional airports can easily be confused.

16. Selecting the Correct Aircraft Type

Choose the aircraft type that matches the aircraft being flown.

Examples:

  • B738 – Boeing 737-800.
  • B38M – Boeing 737 MAX 8.
  • A319 – Airbus A319.
  • A320 – Airbus A320.
  • A20N – Airbus A320neo.
  • A359 – Airbus A350-900.

The aircraft type affects:

  • Fuel burn.
  • Cruise speed.
  • Climb performance.
  • Maximum weight.
  • Flight time.
  • Payload.
  • Required reserves.

Do not create an A320 flight plan and then fly it in an A350.

17. Choosing an Aircraft Airframe

The aircraft type provides general performance data.

An airframe profile provides a more specific configuration.

An airframe may contain:

  • Registration.
  • Engine type.
  • Seating configuration.
  • Basic empty weight.
  • Maximum take-off weight.
  • Maximum landing weight.
  • Fuel capacity.
  • Passenger weight.
  • Cargo assumptions.
  • Fuel-burn correction.

Default Profile

Use a default profile when:

  • You are new to SimBrief.
  • You are still learning the aircraft.
  • No official profile is available.

Add-on-Specific Profile

Use a developer-supported or trusted profile when available.

Examples might include dedicated profiles for:

  • PMDG 737 variants.
  • Fenix A319 or A320.
  • FlyByWire A32NX.
  • iniBuilds A350.

Avoid importing random profiles without reviewing their weight and engine information.

18. Airline, Flight Number and Registration

Enter:

  • Airline code.
  • Flight number.
  • Aircraft registration.
Airline: BAW
Flight Number: 450
Registration: G-TST1

The generated callsign might become:


BAW450

 

 

For VATSIM or BeyondATC, ensure the callsign and flight number match the plan filed in the relevant system.

19. Departure Time

Enter the planned off-block time.

SimBrief may use this to retrieve relevant forecast weather and calculate the Operational Flight Plan.

Understand the difference between:

Off-Block Time

The planned time the aircraft leaves the stand.

Take-off Time

The time the aircraft becomes airborne.

Landing Time

The predicted touchdown time.

On-Block Time

The predicted arrival at the destination stand.

Do not treat departure time as the exact take-off time.

20. Route Selection

SimBrief may suggest one or more routes.

A route may contain:

  • Departure airport.
  • SID transition.
  • Airways.
  • Waypoints.
  • STAR transition.
  • Arrival airport.
EGLL CPT UL9 KONAN UL607 SPI T180 UN873 NATOR LEPA

The exact route depends on:

  • Current airspace.
  • Weather.
  • Aircraft capability.
  • Airport restrictions.
  • Air traffic control.
  • Navigation-data cycle.

21. SID and STAR Planning

SID

Standard Instrument Departure.

This connects the departure runway or airport area to the en-route structure.

STAR

Standard Terminal Arrival Route.

This connects the en-route structure to the destination airport environment.

SimBrief may include likely departure and arrival procedures, but the final runway and procedure can change because of:

  • Wind.
  • ATC.
  • Airport operations.
  • Weather.
  • Traffic.

Students should not rigidly assume that the runway suggested during planning will remain available throughout the flight.

22. AIRAC Navigation Data

AIRAC cycles are periodically updated navigation databases.

They contain:

  • Airways.
  • Waypoints.
  • Procedures.
  • SIDs.
  • STARs.
  • Approaches.
  • Navaids.

If SimBrief uses a different AIRAC cycle from the aircraft, the FMC or MCDU may report:

  • Waypoint not found.
  • Airway not found.
  • Procedure unavailable.
  • Route discontinuity.
  • Invalid entry.

A current Navigraph subscription can keep supported MSFS 2020 and MSFS 2024 navigation data aligned through Navigraph Hub.  

23. Cruise Altitude

SimBrief can calculate an appropriate cruise altitude based on:

  • Route length.
  • Aircraft type.
  • Direction.
  • Weather.
  • Weight.
  • Airspace restrictions.

 Example 
FL360

This means 36,000 feet at standard pressure.

For shorter routes, a lower cruise altitude may be more efficient.

For long flights, step climbs may be planned as the aircraft becomes lighter.

24. Cost Index

Cost Index influences the balance between time and fuel efficiency.

Lower Cost Index

Generally prioritises fuel economy.

Higher Cost Index

Generally prioritises speed and reduced journey time.

Use the value provided in the Operational Flight Plan unless following a specific airline procedure.

The cost index entered into the FMC or MCDU should normally match the SimBrief plan.

25. Payload Planning

Payload includes:

  • Passengers.
  • Passenger baggage.
  • Cargo.
  • Mail.
  • Other commercial load.

Students can choose:

  • A specific number of passengers.
  • A desired payload weight.
  • An automatic load.
  • A random load.

Ensure the payload is appropriate for the aircraft.

SimBrief’s generated passenger and baggage assumptions are included in the airframe and planning data. Navigraph’s official SimBrief tutorial demonstrates how passenger baggage values are incorporated into an airframe calculation.  

26. Understanding Aircraft Weight

Students should understand these basic weight terms.

Operating Empty Weight

The aircraft with standard operating equipment and crew, but without usable fuel or commercial payload.

Zero Fuel Weight

The aircraft weight before usable fuel is added.

 

Zero Fuel Weight = Operating Weight + Payload

 

Landing Weight

The estimated weight at destination after planned fuel burn.

Each must remain within the aircraft’s operating limits.

27. Fuel Planning

SimBrief calculates several fuel categories.

Although document layouts differ, students should understand the following.

Taxi Fuel

Fuel expected to be consumed between engine start and take-off.

Trip Fuel

Fuel required from take-off to landing at the planned destination.

Contingency Fuel

Additional fuel for variations such as:

  • Wind differences.
  • Routing changes.
  • Small delays.
  • Forecast uncertainty.

Alternate Fuel

Fuel required to fly from the destination to the selected alternate airport.

Final Reserve Fuel

Protected reserve intended for exceptional circumstances.

Extra Fuel

Additional fuel manually added by the dispatcher or pilot.

Block Fuel

The total planned fuel loaded before departure.

Students must not treat all fuel on board as freely available for routine use. Some fuel protects alternate and reserve requirements.

28. Choosing an Alternate Airport

An alternate is an airport that may be used if landing at the planned destination becomes unsafe or impossible.

Consider:

  • Weather.
  • Runway length.
  • Aircraft compatibility.
  • Distance.
  • Navigation aids.
  • Airport operating hours.
  • Fuel requirement.

SimBrief can suggest an alternate, but students should confirm that it is operationally sensible.

29. Weather Information

The OFP can contain:

  • Departure weather.
  • Destination weather.
  • Alternate weather.
  • Winds aloft.
  • Temperature.
  • Pressure.
  • Significant weather.
  • Forecast conditions.

Students should check whether the likely runway matches:

  • Wind direction.
  • Wind strength.
  • Visibility.
  • Cloud base.
  • Airport restrictions.

SimBrief is a planning tool. Final operational decisions still depend on the conditions present during the simulated flight.

30. NOTAMs

NOTAMs provide operational notices.

They may include:

  • Runway closures.
  • Taxiway closures.
  • Navigation-aid outages.
  • Construction.
  • Lighting limitations.
  • Temporary airspace restrictions.

The SimBrief OFP may contain a large number of NOTAM entries.

Students do not need to memorise them all, but they should check for information affecting:

  • Departure runway.
  • Arrival runway.
  • Planned alternate.
  • Required approach.
  • Major taxi routes.

31. Generating the Operational Flight Plan

Once all fields have been reviewed:

  1. Confirm the airports.
  2. Confirm aircraft type.
  3. Confirm the correct airframe.
  4. Confirm route.
  5. Confirm cruise altitude.
  6. Confirm payload.
  7. Confirm alternate.
  8. Confirm departure time.
  9. Select Generate Flight.

SimBrief will then create the Operational Flight Plan.

Once generated, the OFP represents the plan calculated at that moment.

Changing fields afterwards normally requires generating a new plan.

32. Reading the Operational Flight Plan

Students should identify the following key information.

Header

Usually includes:

  • Airline and flight number.
  • Aircraft type.
  • Registration.
  • Origin.
  • Destination.
  • Alternate.
  • Date.
  • Planning time.

Route

The full planned route between the airports.

Fuel Summary

The fuel calculation broken into categories.

Weight Summary

Includes:

  • Payload.
  • Zero Fuel Weight.
  • Take-off Weight.
  • Landing Weight.

Times

Includes:

  • Estimated off-block time.
  • Flight time.
  • Estimated arrival.
  • Taxi allowances.

Weather

Includes departure, arrival and alternate weather information.

Flight Log

Lists planned waypoints with information such as:

  • Track.
  • Distance.
  • Flight level.
  • Wind.
  • Temperature.
  • Estimated fuel remaining.
  • Estimated time.

33. Importing into PMDG Aircraft

The exact procedure may differ between PMDG versions, but the general workflow is:

  1. Generate the SimBrief flight.
  2. Enter the SimBrief username or Pilot ID in the PMDG setup area or tablet.
  3. Request the latest flight.
  4. Import the route into the FMC or EFB.
  5. Import payload and fuel where supported.
  6. Review the route page.
  7. Resolve any discontinuities.
  8. Confirm SIDs, STARs and runway selections.
  9. Complete the performance pages manually.

Do not assume that importing the route automatically completes:

  • IRS alignment.
  • Take-off performance.
  • V-speeds.
  • MCP configuration.
  • Engine setup.
  • Departure briefing.

These will be covered in the PMDG aircraft course.

34. Importing into Fenix Aircraft

The general workflow is:

  1. Generate the SimBrief plan.
  2. Enter the correct SimBrief account information in the Fenix application or EFB.
  3. Open the aircraft EFB.
  4. Retrieve the latest SimBrief flight.
  5. Review payload and fuel.
  6. Import or initialise the flight through the aircraft systems.
  7. Review the MCDU flight plan.
  8. Enter or verify performance data.
  9. Resolve route discontinuities.
  10. Confirm departure and arrival procedures.

The Fenix may use both an external application and in-aircraft systems, so students should confirm that the account is connected in the correct location.

35. Importing into FlyByWire A32NX

The general workflow is:

  1. Install the FlyByWire aircraft through its official installer.
  2. Open the flyPad.
  3. Enter the SimBrief username or Pilot ID.
  4. Generate a SimBrief plan.
  5. Request the latest flight from the flyPad or MCDU.
  6. Import payload and fuel.
  7. Initialise the route.
  8. Review the flight plan.
  9. Insert the expected SID, STAR and approach.
  10. Complete the performance pages.

The Stable, Development and Experimental versions may not always behave identically, so the student should record which version is being used.

36. Importing into iniBuilds Aircraft

The general workflow is:

  1. Generate the correct aircraft plan in SimBrief.
  2. Enter the SimBrief account information in the aircraft EFB.
  3. Open the flight-planning or dispatch page.
  4. Retrieve the latest plan.
  5. Import the route.
  6. Import payload and fuel where supported.
  7. Review the route in the FMC or MCDU.
  8. Confirm the navigation-data cycle.
  9. Resolve discontinuities.
  10. Enter performance information.

Each iniBuilds aircraft should eventually receive its own complete operating module.

37. SimBrief and the MSFS World Map

Students must decide whether they need the plan in:

  • The aircraft avionics.
  • The simulator World Map.
  • Both.

Aircraft Only

Useful when:

  • Using VATSIM.
  • Using BeyondATC.
  • Using aircraft-specific navigation.
  • Avoiding default ATC.

World Map and Aircraft

May be useful when:

  • Using default MSFS ATC.
  • Requiring the simulator to recognise the IFR route.
  • Using native EFB or mission features.

However, mismatches can occur if the World Map and aircraft alter the plan differently.

Always compare:

  • Waypoints.
  • Runway.
  • SID.
  • STAR.
  • Approach.

38. Saving and Archiving Plans


Create a structured archive.

Suggested naming format:

_BAW450_EGLL-LEPA_B738

Save:

  • OFP PDF.
  • Route string.
  • Aircraft profile.
  • Exported files.
  • Performance notes.
  • Actual fuel used after the flight.

This allows students to compare planned and actual performance.

STEP 3

Testing Performance, Compatibility and Reliability

39. Why SimBrief Testing Matters

SimBrief itself is primarily a web-based planning service and should not normally cause a meaningful in-flight FPS reduction.

However, supporting integrations can affect:

  • Simulator startup time.
  • EFB loading.
  • Network activity.
  • Community Folder scanning.
  • Aircraft initialisation.
  • Route-import reliability.
  • Add-on compatibility.
  • Memory usage.

The objective is to confirm that every integration is working without introducing avoidable problems.

40. Establish a Baseline

Before installing optional SimBrief integrations, record:

  • Simulator startup time.
  • Flight loading time.
  • Average FPS.
  • 1% lows.
  • MainThread status.
  • GPU utilisation.
  • RAM usage.
  • VRAM usage.
  • Network usage.

Use your permanent Performance Academy benchmark.

41. Test the Browser-Only Method

First generate and use a plan without optional in-simulator panels.

Test:

  • OFP generation.
  • PDF download.
  • Aircraft direct import.
  • Route accuracy.
  • Fuel and payload data.

This becomes the cleanest SimBrief baseline.

42. Test SimBrief Downloader

With SimBrief Downloader running, record:

  • Background CPU usage.
  • RAM usage.
  • Disk activity.
  • Export time.
  • Duplicate exports.
  • Correct destination folders.

A downloader left running should normally have a very small impact, but testing confirms whether it behaves normally on the student’s system.

43. Test SimBrief Dispatch or In-Simulator Panels

Where installed:

  1. Measure simulator startup without the panel.
  2. Install or enable the panel.
  3. Measure startup again.
  4. Open the panel at the gate.
  5. Monitor RAM and MainThread behaviour.
  6. Generate or retrieve a plan.
  7. close the panel.
  8. Confirm that performance returns to the previous level.
  9. Test for toolbar or EFB conflicts.

44. Route Accuracy Test

Compare the following:

  • SimBrief route string.
  • Simulator World Map route.
  • Aircraft FMC or MCDU route.
  • Navigraph route where available.

Check:

  • Missing waypoints.
  • Different airways.
  • Discontinuities.
  • Incorrect runways.
  • Missing SIDs.
  • Missing STARs.
  • Duplicate waypoints.
  • Direct-routing substitutions.

Any mismatch should be investigated before departure.

45. AIRAC Compatibility Test

Record the AIRAC cycle shown by:

  • SimBrief.
  • Aircraft FMC or MCDU.
  • Navigraph.
  • Simulator avionics.

If cycles differ, try loading the route.

Record any:

  • Invalid waypoint messages.
  • Missing procedure messages.
  • Airway errors.
  • Route discontinuities.

The long-term solution is to use compatible navigation data rather than manually repairing every mismatch.

46. Payload and Weight Test

Compare:

SimBrief

  • Passengers.
  • Cargo.
  • Zero Fuel Weight.
  • Take-off Weight.
  • Block Fuel.

Aircraft

  • EFB payload.
  • FMC or MCDU weights.
  • Simulator weight-and-balance page.

The figures may not always match exactly because of differences in:

  • Aircraft model weight.
  • Passenger assumptions.
  • Cabin layout.
  • Rounding.
  • Fuel density.
  • Developer implementation.

Small differences may be normal. Large differences require investigation.

47. Fuel Test

Before departure, record:

  • SimBrief Block Fuel.
  • Aircraft fuel loaded.
  • Planned taxi fuel.
  • Planned take-off fuel.

After take-off, compare actual fuel with the planned value.

During cruise, compare fuel remaining at selected waypoints.

After landing, compare:

  • Planned landing fuel.
  • Actual landing fuel.

This helps determine whether:

  • The correct airframe was selected.
  • The aircraft fuel model matches the plan.
  • Weather differed from forecast.
  • The route changed.
  • Excessive taxi or holding occurred.

48. Aircraft Import Test

For each supported aircraft:

  1. Generate a fresh plan.
  2. Retrieve it using the aircraft.
  3. Record import time.
  4. Confirm origin and destination.
  5. Confirm route.
  6. Confirm cruise altitude.
  7. Confirm cost index.
  8. Confirm weights.
  9. Confirm fuel.
  10. Check for error messages.

Repeat this for:

  • PMDG.
  • Fenix.
  • FlyByWire.
  • iniBuilds.

Do not assume a successful import in one aircraft proves all aircraft integrations are working.

49. Loading-Time Test

Record:

Without Optional Panel

  • Launch to main menu.
  • Main menu to cockpit-ready.

With SimBrief Integration Active

  • Launch to main menu.
  • Main menu to cockpit-ready.
  • Time to open EFB.
  • Time to retrieve plan.

Compare the results.

A small difference may be normal. A major delay may indicate:

  • Duplicate panel installation.
  • Network connection problem.
  • Outdated integration.
  • Account authentication issue.
  • Community Folder conflict.

50. Network Test

SimBrief needs internet access to retrieve and generate current plans.

Check:

  • Browser access.
  • Login status.
  • Firewall rules.
  • VPN behaviour.
  • Network latency.
  • Whether the service responds outside the simulator.
  • Whether the panel responds inside the simulator.

If the website works but the in-simulator panel does not, investigate the panel or simulator integration before blaming the SimBrief account.

51. Community Folder Conflict Test

If SimBrief Dispatch or another integration uses the Community Folder:

  1. Record its exact package name.
  2. Check for older copies.
  3. Check for manually installed and Hub-installed duplicates.
  4. Disable unrelated toolbar packages.
  5. Restart the simulator.
  6. Test the panel.
  7. Re-enable packages individually.

Symptoms of conflicts may include:

  • Blank panel.
  • Infinite loading.
  • Missing toolbar icon.
  • Failed account login.
  • CTD when opening the EFB.
  • Unusually long startup.

52. MSFS 2020 and MSFS 2024 Separation Test

Students owning both simulators should verify:

  • Correct Community Folder.
  • Correct export destination.
  • Correct Navigraph Hub simulator selection.
  • Correct aircraft version.
  • Correct Downloader path.
  • No MSFS 2020 package active in MSFS 2024.
  • No MSFS 2024 package active in MSFS 2020.

Generate one test plan and confirm that each simulator receives only the intended files.

53. Performance Benchmark

Run the permanent benchmark flight using:

  • The same airport.
  • The same aircraft.
  • The same weather.
  • The same route.
  • The same graphics settings.

Record:

  • Average FPS.
  • 1% lows.
  • MainThread status.
  • GPU utilisation.
  • RAM usage.
  • VRAM usage.
  • Loading times.
  • EFB responsiveness.

Compare:

  1. No optional SimBrief panel.
  2. SimBrief panel installed but closed.
  3. SimBrief panel open.
  4. Aircraft plan imported.

This isolates the effect of each state.

54. Troubleshooting Common SimBrief Problems

Plan Does Not Appear

Check:

  • A flight was generated, not merely edited.
  • Correct account username or Pilot ID.
  • Internet connection.
  • Aircraft integration status.
  • Latest plan selected.
  • Correct simulator date where relevant.

Wrong Route Appears

Check:

  • A newer plan was generated.
  • Aircraft did not retain an older company route.
  • Correct origin and destination.
  • Route import was refreshed.
  • World Map did not modify the route.

Waypoint Not Found

Check:

  • AIRAC mismatch.
  • Typographical errors.
  • Outdated aircraft database.
  • Route uses a newer airway or waypoint.

Fuel Does Not Match

Check:

  • Correct aircraft profile.
  • Units.
  • Airframe weights.
  • Manual fuel changes.
  • Aircraft developer’s loading method.

Panel Will Not Load

Check:

  • Sign-in.
  • Network.
  • Duplicate installation.
  • Navigraph Hub update.
  • Community Folder conflict.
  • Simulator version compatibility.

Default ATC Treats Flight as VFR

Check whether the IFR plan was actually imported into the simulator’s World Map or native planner. Importing only into the aircraft’s FMC may not provide the route to default ATC.

Student Practical Assignment

Create, Import and Validate a Complete Flight Plan

Students will create a complete airline flight between two airports.

Suggested example:


Departure: EGLL
Destination: LEPA
Aircraft: Boeing 737-800 or Airbus A320
Weather: Current planning weather
Alternate: Suitable nearby airport


Part 1 – Installation Record

Record:

SimBrief account created: Yes / No

SimBrief username:

Pilot ID:

Navigraph Hub installed: Yes / No

SimBrief Downloader installed: Yes / No

SimBrief Dispatch installed: Yes / No

Simulator used: MSFS 2020 / MSFS 2024

Aircraft used:

Part 2 – Flight Planning

Record:

Departure:

Destination:

Alternate:

Aircraft type:

Airframe:

Flight number:

Route:

Cruise altitude:

Cost index:

Passengers:

Cargo:

Block fuel:

Take-off weight:

Landing weight:

Part 3 – Aircraft Import

Confirm:

☐ Plan retrieved successfully.

☐ Origin and destination correct.

☐ Route imported correctly.

☐ Cruise altitude correct.

☐ Cost index correct.

☐ Fuel loaded correctly.

☐ Payload loaded correctly.

☐ AIRAC cycle checked.

☐ Discontinuities reviewed.

☐ SID and STAR checked.

Part 4 – Performance Test

Record:

Startup time before integration:

Startup time after integration:

Flight loading time:

Average FPS:

1% Low:

MainThread status:

RAM usage:

VRAM usage:

Panel responsiveness:

Any stutters or CTDs:

Part 5 – Final Assessment

Answer:

  • Did the plan import correctly?
  • Did SimBrief and the aircraft use the same navigation data?
  • Did fuel and payload match?
  • Did the integration affect loading time?
  • Did it affect FPS or frame pacing?
  • Were any duplicate packages discovered?
  • Is the integration ready for normal flying?

Student Checklist

SimBrief account configured.

MSFS 2020 or MSFS 2024 installation method selected.

Optional software installed correctly.

Correct aircraft profile selected.

Complete OFP generated.

Route understood.

Fuel categories reviewed.

Payload and weights checked.

Alternate airport selected.

Plan imported into the aircraft.

AIRAC compatibility verified.

Loading time measured.

Performance benchmark completed.

Final configuration documented.

Module Summary

Congratulations—you have completed the first module of the Flight Sim Mastery Academy.

You now understand how to create a complete SimBrief flight plan and use it with Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 and Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024.

The most important lessons are:

  • SimBrief is primarily an online planning system, not simply a Community Folder add-on.
  • SimBrief, the simulator flight planner and the aircraft avionics may operate as separate planning layers.
  • Students must select the correct aircraft type and airframe before trusting fuel or payload calculations.
  • The Operational Flight Plan contains far more than a route; it also provides fuel, weights, weather, alternates and timing information.
  • Direct aircraft imports depend on the aircraft’s own integration.
  • MSFS 2024’s EFB provides additional planning possibilities, but support remains dependent on the simulator and aircraft implementation.
  • AIRAC mismatches can cause missing waypoints and procedures.
  • Fuel and payload data must be compared with the aircraft after import.
  • Optional integrations should be tested for loading time, account problems, duplicate packages and route accuracy.
  • Every flight plan should be checked rather than accepted blindly.

Module Knowledge Check

  1. What is the primary purpose of SimBrief?
  2. What is the difference between SimBrief and Navigraph Charts?
  3. Is SimBrief always installed inside the Community Folder?
  4. When is SimBrief Downloader useful?
  5. What is the difference between a flight imported into the aircraft and one imported into the simulator World Map?
  6. Why must kilograms and pounds remain consistent?
  7. What is an aircraft airframe profile?
  8. What is the purpose of an alternate airport?
  9. What is the difference between Trip Fuel and Block Fuel?
  10. What is an AIRAC cycle?
  11. Why may an FMC reject a waypoint included in the SimBrief route?
  12. Why should a SimBrief route be reviewed after aircraft import?
  13. Why might default ATC fail to recognise a route imported only into an aircraft?
  14. How should students test an in-simulator SimBrief panel?
  15. What evidence would confirm that the SimBrief installation and aircraft integration are working correctly?
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