Understanding STARs and SIDs (Simple Explanation)

Last updated: May 2026

If you’ve ever loaded a flight plan in MSFS 2024 and seen things like “SID” and “STAR” pop up, you’re not alone in wondering what they actually do.

The good news is — they’re not complicated once you understand the basics. In fact, they’re one of the biggest things that make your flights feel like real-world airline operations.

Let’s break it down in plain English.

What is a SID?

A SID (Standard Instrument Departure) is simply a planned route that takes you from the runway up into your cruise phase.

Instead of just taking off and turning wherever you want, a SID:

• Keeps aircraft safely separated
• Reduces pilot workload
• Follows noise and terrain restrictions
• Matches real-world procedures

Think of it like a guided path out of the airport.

What a SID Usually Includes

• Initial climb instructions
• Waypoints to follow
• Speed and altitude restrictions
• Turns after takeoff

Once you reach the final waypoint of the SID, you transition into your main en route flight.

What is a STAR?

A STAR (Standard Terminal Arrival Route) is the opposite of a SID.

It takes you from your cruise phase down toward your destination airport in a structured way.

Instead of randomly descending, a STAR:

• Brings you in from a specific direction
• Manages traffic flow into busy airports
• Prepares you for the approach

What a STAR Usually Includes

• Step-down altitude restrictions
• Speed limits
• Arrival routing into the terminal area
• Transition to the runway approach

Why This Matters in MSFS 2024

If you’re flying aircraft like the 737 or A320, the FMC relies heavily on SIDs and STARs.

Without them:

• VNAV won’t behave properly
• Descents can become messy
• You’ll end up too high or too fast

With them:

• The aircraft flies a smooth, realistic profile
• You get proper descent planning
• Everything feels far more “real airline.”

The Simple Way to Think About It

• SID = How you leave the airport
• STAR = How you arrive at the airport

That’s it.

Do You Always Need Them?

Not always, but in most cases:

• Yes for airliners
• Optional for small GA flying

If you want realism, always include them in your flight plan.

Final Tip

Don’t overthink it.

Just pick a SID and STAR that matches your runway and direction — the aircraft will handle the rest.

SIDs and STARs are structured departure and arrival routes that make your flights smoother, more realistic, and far easier to manage — especially in airliners.