If there’s one part of the flight that separates beginners from confident sim pilots, it’s the approach.
Get this right, and everything else feels easy.
Here’s how to consistently fly a smooth, controlled, professional-looking approach in MSFS 2024.
Start earlier than you think
Most problems happen because things start too late.
You should already be:
- Slowing down
- Descending
- Configuring the aircraft
Well, before you reach the airport.
A good rule:
Start thinking about your approach at least 80–100 nautical miles out.
Be at the right altitude
This is the big one.
If you’re too high, everything falls apart.
A simple rule of thumb:
- 3° descent path
- Roughly 3 miles per 1,000 feet
Example:
- 30 miles out = 10,000 feet
- 15 miles out = 5,000 feet
Manage your speed early
Don’t wait until the last minute to slow down.
Start reducing speed gradually:
- Cruise → 280 knots
- Then → 250 knots
- Then → 210 knots
- Then approach speeds
This gives you full control instead of fighting the aircraft.
Use flaps properly
Flaps aren’t just for landing — they help control speed and lift.
Typical flow:
- Flaps 1: initial slowdown
- Flaps 5–10: further reduction
- Gear down: around 180 knots
- Final flaps: on final approach
Stay stable
A stable approach means:
- Correct speed
- Correct descent rate
- Correct alignment with the runway
If any of these are off, fix them early — not at the last second.
Use autopilot wisely
There’s no shame in using autopilot.
In fact, real pilots do it all the time.
Use:
- LNAV for lateral guidance
- VNAV or VS for descent
- APP mode for ILS approaches
Then disconnect when you’re comfortable.
Final 1,000 feet rule
By 1,000 feet above the runway, you should be:
- Fully configured
- On speed
- On the glide path
If not, go around.
That’s real-world procedure.
Final tip
A perfect landing starts with a perfect approach — not the flare.
SUMMARY
A perfect approach comes down to planning early, managing speed, staying on profile, and being fully stable well before reaching the runway.
MSFS 2024 approach guide