In a new YouTube video, the owner and CEO of BlueBird Simulations, Shervin Ahooraei, has shared a June update on the team’s upcoming Boeing 757 for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 and 2024. The update confirms pricing details and outlines the aircraft’s multi-phase beta roadmap. While development progress is steady, Ahooraei emphasised that a release remains several months away.

The passenger variant of the 757, including both the -200 and -300 models, and multiple engine options, will be priced at $80. The aircraft will be compatible with both MSFS 2020 and 2024. It will be available for PC through Just Flight and BlueBird’s website. The Xbox version is expected several months after the initial release.

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“Just because we're comfortable announcing a price doesn't mean we're close to release”, said Ahooraei in the video. “We're still months away from the next stage of testing”.

Ahooraei also outlined a three-phase beta program, beginning with a small group of testers with extensive experience with the 757. Stage two, described as the most critical, depends on completing the flight management system (FMS), which Ahooraei acknowledged is still several months away due to its complexity. The final stage will open for broader testing, allowing access for all users.

Recent development efforts have focused on a comprehensive rework of the pneumatic system, enabling a more authentic engine start process and failure simulation. BlueBird has implemented functional air-ground logic and the 757’s engine electronic control (EEC) computer, while completing significant work on flight controls, using custom code. Over 450 custom sound samples are now integrated into the cockpit, and although the virtual cabin is beta-ready, additional cabin features are not currently a priority.

Looking ahead to FlightSimExpo 2025, BlueBird Simulations will exhibit for the first time, with a fully equipped 10x20 booth showcasing the 757. Attendees can try the aircraft hands-on using a dedicated hardware setup, featuring peripherals from Thrustmaster and WinWing. 

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Ahooraei reiterated the team’s long-term vision and commitment to quality: “The goal is to be a top-tier developer, and the 757 is just the beginning.”

BlueBird also reaffirmed work on its Boeing 767, beginning with the -300ER variant. Handled by a separate team, the project doesn’t impact 757 development, but draws from shared resources and an established codebase, which is expected to speed up development.

No release date has been announced, and Ahooraei was clear in managing expectations: “We’re here for the long haul. We’re not going anywhere.”

FlightSimExpo 2025 begins on 27 June in Providence, Rhode Island. 

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