MSFS Sim Update 7.1 Beta released – Time Trials enabled

As part of the October 22, 2026, weekly briefing, Lockheed Martin released a beta version of Sim Update 7.1 (build v1.9.20.0) for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 and 2024. The update introduces Time Trials functionality in the National Championship Air Racing (NCAR) mode. Additionally, technical issues introduced in Sim Update 7 were addressed, including a bug affecting the inaccurate modeling of aircraft drag. Full release notes are available on the forums. The production team aims to release the final version to all users in the near future. Furthermore, preparations are underway for the next developer livestream on the official Twitch channel in November, with an opportunity for pre-submitted questions to the panel of Jörg, Seb, and Martial via an online form. A highlight of last week was a roundtable discussion featuring five NCAR pilots from different classes, with the recording available on YouTube.