PMDG is reaching the end of the tunnel in the development of their hotly-awaited 737-700NG3. On their forums, Robert Randazzo detailed that the team remains bullish for a timely release, but is still reserved on setting a concrete release date due to several factors adding “ambiguity” to the project’s completion, and the upcoming Sim Update 9 from Asobo additionally brings more uncertainty to the add-on’s stability with potential issues that is unforeseeable.

Randazzo explained that a lot of logistics are involved in preparation for enabling the team to adapt to SU9, one of which is ensuring a stable testing environment to avoid a “negative initial user experience”. A lot of details are yet to be finalised, including the release date which not even the team has a concrete answer internally, there is an “entire evaluative process” taking place to pinpoint a date. That said, RSR reassured that the product’s launch will not be a surprise drop in store, a release date with possibly an approximate time of day will be announced prior to the release.

“If we haven't told you the date/time yet- it means we have not finalized it.”

As the team approaches the final leg of the 737-700’s development, Randazzo optimistically said that things will become much more exciting between now and the product’s release. The embargo will be lifted so testers of the add-on can share and provide additional new insights into the product, streamers who got ahold of the aircraft will have their embargo lifted as the plane is released. 

“We think you will be excited by what you see.”

To kickstart the beginning of the hype building, the team is currently releasing a series of walkthrough videos on the 737-700 on their YouTube channel, with an introductory video published already (embedded on top). A few hours ago, another video is published detailing the Tow Out and plans after the release of the aircraft:

More videos will steadily be published in the coming days and weeks.

Moving on, Randazzo has shifted to discussing the sounds that are developed for the add-on. Armen, who is principally behind the soundset, has been developing a “sound-scape” to match the visuals and systems fidelity of the rest of the aircraft. Stressing that the sound engine that MSFS used is “unlike anything they have every[sic] had the opportunity to work with”, to which Armen has used the engine to its full potential.

Randazzo wraps up the update by assuring that this will be a monumental release, both for the team and the flight sim community; the talent behind Vin and Jason to develop the most visually, and technically faithful 737 for MSFS combined with the delightful sonic experience from Armen that brings the bird to life. To read the original update, visit their forums.