To PMDG or not to PMDG?

Hi guys,

I'm considering purchasing the PMDG 737NG now that I have at least 100 hours in a 737 cockpit ahead of me here at SPA. Really what I'm wondering is it worth the E40. I rarely allow an aircraft fly on autopilot too long because it just bores me and I'd be worried with this product that the whole system is based on automation. Is it possible to set a flight plan etc and still be able to handfly the majority of the flight, because in my opinion thats where the challenge lies in flight simming. Anyone can learn which buttons to push and when!

Other things which I'm wondering is if its still possible to use the FS9 ATC or will the more accurate flight plans in the FMC just be in conflict with vectors and altitudes ATC tries to give me? I know the ATC is not very realistic but its still a nice touch not to feel alone up there.

One thing that is really attracting me about this product is the excellent model (both external and internal). If possible i like to do my flying in a VC nowadays because i think it's just more realistic and no freeware 737NG has a VC. For me this is a real plus point about the PMDG 737.

If anyone with this product can give me any advise i would really appreciate it

Hi Cillian,

PMDG737NG is a great addon to MSFS. I highly recommend it. You do not have to use FMC if you don't want to. The bird flies beautifully manually.

Also, there is Wilco's 737 classics. They are very nice too. They come with working weather radar which is really cool.

I have both addons and I have no preference over other. They are both must haves.

ATC follows built in flight plans. Even if you use FMC to build your flight plans, it is best to export them to MSFS flight plan, open that flight plan and use ATC.

There may be an addon (free) somewhere in the net that can convert the FMC flight plans to MSFS flight plan format. I know one that is actually FSNAV addon (free), it can export FSNAV flight plans to PMDG format. I'm sure you know you can export FSNAV format to MSFS.

PMDG can not import MSFS flight plans to their FMC. This may have changed though if they have released new version which I am not aware of.

Wilco 737 can import MSFS flight plan into their FMC. I think that is really handy if you want to use FMC and ATC without going through extra steps to convert flight plans.

Anyhow, please let us know when you buy one.

Thanks.

Naresh

Thanks Yeti.

I've decided to go ahead and buy it. Aerosoft have a boxed version of both the 600/700 and the 800/900. I think I'll get the 800/900 model both because i prefer the slightly longer fuselage of the 800/900 models but also i think that package has slightly more features. The boxed version also comes with a printed manual which is a nice touch. I hate trying to read manuals on the computer!!!

It will probably be tomorrow before i get around to ordering it and not sure how long it will take for it to get here. I'll let ye know as soon as it arrives