Quick Links
One of the exciting features ofMicrosoft Flight Simulator 2024is Career Mode, which transforms the sim into an airport and aviation management game. A standout feature of this mode is the “Companies” system. With this, you can buy different aviation businesses and grow them into international enterprises.
The challenge, however, is thatMSFS 2024’s UI and lack of proper in-game guides can make it difficult for players to navigate the Companies mode. To help, we’ve put together a comprehensive,step-by-step guide on how to start your first company, expand it by hiring crews, and maximize its potential to earn passive income.
How to Start Your First Company
The great thing aboutCareer Mode inMicrosoft Flight Simulator 2024is that it has a low entry barrier. You can start your first company, a small aviation business, after just a few hours of gameplay. If you’re an experienced player familiar with theMSFSfranchise, you’ll be able to build an aviation enterprise in just a few days.
If you’re unsure about any of the steps in creating your first company, don’t worry. Keep reading, and we’ll break down each step in detail, offering helpful tips along the way.
How to Get Your CPL
You can earn a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) after obtaining a Private Pilot License (PPL). In the Headquarters menu, go to Certifications and take the first piloting exam in the center of the certifications tree. Passing this exam awards you the PPL (the test is simple, requiring just a takeoff, short flight, and landing). Once you have your PPL, you can then take the CPL by completing a short charter mission.
Each Certification test costs a few thousand credits, but it’s a one-time payment and won’t be charged again if you fail. If you don’t have enough money, try completing some flightseeing missions, which are one of thebest ways to earn Credits early inMSFS 2024.
How to Get Qualified for a Company
InMSFS 2024, starting a company requires two things: a License and an Aircraft. You earn a license by completing specialization missions that turn you into a professional pilot. For instance, to start an Aerial Firefight company, you need the Scoop Endorsement.Each company also requires specialized aircraft, like Airtankers or Water Scoopers for Aerial Firefighting. Most aircraft become available for purchase once you reach a certain Reputation level.
How to Purchase a Company’s License
Once you have at least 1,000 Credits, you can purchase your first company inMSFS 2024. Go to the Companies menu in the Headquarters of Career Mode, select your desired company from the “Eligible Companies” section, and pay the price to acquire the license.
If you’re aiming for high-end airplanes, avoid purchasing the Flightseeing Company. This is because your first airplane for any company is discounted by 90%, so it’s better to use that discount for a higher-end company. However, completing Flightseeing Missions without skipping any parts is a great way to earn early income.
Purchasing a company’s license won’t automatically grant permission to take on specialized tasks. Before you can start making money, you’ll still need to buy an aircraft that suits the company’s needs.
1,000
10,000
20,000
35,000
25,000
100,000
40,000
50,000
70,000
200,000
150,000
You won’t be able to transfer planes between companies.
How to Buy an Aircraft for Your Company
At first, you can only purchase Used Aircraft, which may have some wear and tear. You might need to pay an extra fee to repair them before they’re ready to fly for your company.
To check if an aircraft needs maintenance, follow this route:All Companies > Manage Company > Click on the aircraft > select “Manage Aircraft.”From there, you can repair, repaint, wash, or even sell the aircraft.
How to Hire Flight Crews and Take on Aviation Missions
It’s currently unclear when the game transfers passively earned Credits to your in-game account, but it’s assumed to happen every 24 hours based on the UTC time zone.
You don’t need to be online for your crew to earn money. Withthe AI flight mode enabled, you’re able to exit the game and return after 24 hours to collect your earnings. The crew continues working while you’re offline, acting almost like an AFK Credit farming method.
If you’re not earning money from your “Crew On” aircraft, check if your spare aircraft needs maintenance. The AI flight crew might refuse to fly an aircraft that isn’t in perfect condition.
Tips for Making the Most of Companies
If you want to run a successful aviation business inMSFS 2024, keep these tips in mind:
Start with Freelance Missions
Freelance Missions have fewer expenses since the money earned goes directly to your in-game bank account, without third-party fees. It’s a good idea forbeginnerMSFS 2024playersto focus on these profitable missions before moving on to more advanced, long-haul jobs.
Take Aircraft Maintenance Seriously
Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your aircraft in good condition.MSFS 2024has a wear-and-tear system that requires consistent checkups and preflight inspections. Neglecting this can cause aircraft malfunctions or crashes, leading to costly repairs or even bankruptcy.
Use Sim Rate to Complete Company Missions Faster
The Sim Rate feature speeds up time inMSFS 2024, helping you finish company missions quicker and earn money faster. You may need to set a key bind for “Sim Rate” in the controller or keyboard settings before you can use it.
Focus on One Company Before Expanding
Avoid spreading yourself too thin. Start with a single company and build a steady income before branching out. Managing multiple companies too soon can result in an unbalanced income-expense situation and lead to bankruptcy.
