NAVDATA & AIRAC CYCLES
AIRAC stands for Aeronautical Information Regulation And Control. It's a standardized system used globally to ensure that aviation navigation data is updated regularly and consistently.
Key Facts:
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Cycle Duration: Every 28 days
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Purpose: Updates include changes to airways, waypoints, procedures (SIDs, STARs), navaids, and airport data
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Origin: Managed by ICAO and used by aviation authorities and flight planning systems worldwide
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Cycle Numbering: Each cycle is identified by a four-digit code (e.g., 2508 = 2025, cycle 08)
AIRAC cycles are crucial for maintaining realism and accuracy in flight simulators, especially for IFR operations.
1
Updating Navdata in X-Plane 11 & 12
Options:
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Navigraph (most popular)
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Aerosoft NavDataPro
Methods:
1. Using Navigraph FMS Data Manager:
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Download and install Navigraph FMS Data Manager
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Sign in and map your simulator (X-Plane 11 or 12)
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Select the appropriate navdata format (native or GNS430)
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Click “Update” to install the latest AIRAC cycle
2. Manual Installation:
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Download navdata from Navigraph or Aerosoft
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Extract files and place them in X-Plane/Custom Data/
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Overwrite existing files if prompted
Notes:
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X-Plane uses a unified navdata format for scenery, ATC, and avionics
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Some older aircraft may require GNS430 format instead of native X-Plane format
2
Updating Navdata in MSFS 2020
Options:
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Navigraph Hub
Methods:
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DownloadNavigraph Hub
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Sign in with your Navigraph account
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Click “Install” next to MSFS 2020 navdata package
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Navigraph uses Jeppesen data, which is highly accurate and used by real-world airlines
Notes:
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MSFS 2020 includes default navdata from NavBlue and FAA, but it may be incomplete or outdated
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Add-ons like PMDG or Fenix use their own navdata formats, often requiring separate updates
3
Updating Navdata in MSFS 2024
Options:
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Navigraph Hub (Same as MSFS 2020)
Methods:
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MSFS 2024 is fully supported by Navigraph Hub
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Latest AIRAC cycles can be installed directly into the simulator
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Default aircraft will automatically use updated Jeppesen data
Known Issues:
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Some users report missing SIDs/STARs due to scenery conflicts (e.g., runway designators not matching navdata)
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This is often due to incorrect scenery loading order or outdated third-party airport files
If you'd like help setting up Navigraph or choosing the right subscription plan, our team can walk you through it. Feel free to contact us via Discord.