Leonardo ushers the MD-80 into a new era for MSFS 2020 and 2024

After two decades of continuous development, Fly the Maddog reaches a decisive milestone. Leonardo has officially released the Fly the Maddog – 20th Anniversary Edition, a substantial evolution of its renowned MD-80 simulation, designed to meet modern visual and technical standards while preserving the systems depth that made it a benchmark for serious simmers.

This is not a clean-sheet product. Instead, it is a deliberate and carefully engineered progression of Fly the Maddog X, refined for today’s simulator ecosystem.

A modernized Maddog, inside and out

The 20th Anniversary Edition introduces entirely new 3D interior and exterior models, paired with high-resolution textures and updated material rendering. The result is a cockpit and airframe that feel contemporary, without sacrificing the raw, industrial character of the MD-80.

Visual fidelity has been pushed further across the board, supported by improved animations and more interactive cabin and cockpit elements, including operational sunshades and passenger lighting directly from relevant viewpoints.

New Manager, streamlined operations

Leonardo has replaced the legacy Load Manager with a new, modern Manager. Beyond aircraft configuration, it now integrates a built-in system for downloading and managing liveries directly from Leonardo’s servers, significantly simplifying installation and updates.

Refined performance and flight dynamics

Under the hood, the codebase has been optimized and the flight model further refined, improving overall aircraft behavior and performance consistency. External engine sounds have also been reworked, with Leonardo openly acknowledging the limitations imposed by the MD-80’s disappearance from European skies, and setting clear, realistic expectations.

All major variants included in one package

Unlike the previous product structure, the MD-82, MD-83, and MD-88 are now bundled into a single package. This represents a notable value shift, particularly for users who previously owned only the MD-82.

Additional development is already planned post-release, with updates delivered free of charge. The next major step will be a dedicated cargo (-F) variant, planned as a paid expansion.

MSFS 2020 and 2024 compatibility

A single purchase grants access to both Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 and Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024. Leonardo has intentionally avoided a fully native FS2024 modular build for now, ensuring continued and full support for MSFS 2020.

Important points for existing users:

• Fly the Maddog X remains supported
• Both versions can coexist
• Upgrading is entirely optional

Liveries and ecosystem support

The release includes carefully selected default liveries for each variant, with additional downloadable liveries available at launch. Due to the new models and texture system, legacy Maddog X liveries are not compatible.

Third-party integration is already in place, with support for CPDLC networks, Navigraph AIRAC data and charts via the EFB, and compatibility work already completed with FS2Crew, GSX, FSiPanel and Immersive Audio.

Pricing and availability

Until December 31, 2025:

• Full package: €64.99 + VAT
• Upgrade price: €22.50 + VAT

From January 1, 2026:

• Full package: €69.99 + VAT
• Upgrade price: €24.99 + VAT

The product is distributed exclusively via SIMMARKET, which remains the official vendor.

A release shaped by experience

This anniversary edition is as much a technical release as it is a statement of philosophy. Leonardo continues to favor realism, transparency, and long-term support over mass-market compromises. For MD-80 enthusiasts and high-fidelity airline simmers, the Maddog’s journey is far from over.

Release date: December 20th, 12:00 CET
Source: Official Fly the Maddog forum

British AvGeek showcases the new textures in early preview

Ahead of release, British AvGeek published a detailed preview video highlighting the upcoming visual improvements in a full MSFS 2024 flight from JFK to Washington National. In the video, titled “Leonardo MADDOG Major Texture Update PREVIEW! (MSFS 2024)”, the focus is firmly on the long-anticipated overhaul of textures and 3D models across the MD-82, MD-83 and MD-88.

British AvGeek notes that while the Maddog has always stood out for its exceptional system depth, visuals and sounds had fallen behind newer-generation MSFS aircraft. According to the preview, Leonardo has directly addressed this feedback, delivering a significant step forward in surface detail, materials and overall visual presentation, complemented by targeted external engine sound tweaks. The update is described as being on “final approach,” aligning closely with the official 20th Anniversary Edition release.