Horizon Simulations
Website: https://horizonsimulations.com/ Founded: 2021 Headquarters: International (community-based) Platforms: MSFS
Overview
Horizon Simulations is a community-driven development group that has undertaken one of the most ambitious freeware projects in MSFS history: a study-level Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. Operating as a volunteer team rather than a commercial company, Horizon Simulations represents the collaborative spirit of the flight simulation community.
Their Boeing 787-9 project aims to deliver a comprehensive, systems-deep representation of Boeing’s revolutionary composite airliner—entirely free of charge. This approach mirrors the philosophy of the FlyByWire A320 project, demonstrating that community developers can create products rivaling commercial offerings.
Horizon Simulations embodies the open-source, community-first ethos that has become an important part of the MSFS ecosystem alongside commercial development.
History
Horizon Simulations was formed in 2021 by a group of passionate flight simulation enthusiasts and developers who saw the need for a quality Boeing 787 in MSFS. Rather than wait for commercial developers to fill the gap, they organized a volunteer team to create their own.
The project has progressed through multiple development milestones, with the team regularly sharing updates and early access versions with the community. Development has been transparent, with the team discussing challenges and gathering feedback throughout the process.
Aircraft Portfolio
Current Products
- Boeing 787-9 - Freeware study-level widebody airliner (in development/early access)
Planned Development
- Continued refinement of 787-9 systems and flight model
- Potential additional variants
Notable Achievements
- Largest freeware widebody airliner project for MSFS
- Volunteer team creating study-level commercial aircraft
- Open development process with community transparency
- Demonstrating viability of community-driven airliner development
Community Reputation
Horizon Simulations is highly regarded within the MSFS community for their ambitious undertaking. Users appreciate that the team is working to provide a quality 787 experience without commercial barriers. The freeware nature of the project means expectations are tempered—users understand it’s a work in progress developed by volunteers.
Feedback on released versions has been constructive, with the community recognizing both the achievements and the areas still under development. The team’s transparency about development challenges and timelines is appreciated. Many in the community view Horizon Simulations as an inspiring example of what passionate volunteers can accomplish in flight simulation.