VR flight simulators are nothing new. From Microsoft Flight Simulator to Epic Airplane Flying Simulator Pro, the genre covers everything from realism to playfulness. However, in 2026, there’s a selection of brand new titles set to change the VR flight simulator catalogue forever. In this article, we’ll run down every title currently set to break the sound barrier on VR headsets in 2026.
Aces of Thunder
After what felt like a painfully long wait, Aces of Thunder finally arrived on PSVR 2 and PC VR earlier this month. Developed by Gaijin Entertainment, the title builds on the team’s experience with War Thunder by focusing on historically accurate aerial combat across multiple theatres of World War I and II. The game includes fully interactive cockpits and more than 20 aircraft, such as the P-51 Mustang, Spitfire, Bf 109, and Zero.
The game features both single-player and multiplayer modes, and has been well received in the weeks since its launch.
F/A-18 Pilot Simulator
Taking off earlier this week, we saw F/A-18 Pilot Simulator launching on Meta Quest. Developed by TAS Systems, F/A-18 Pilot Simulator provides a realistic cockpit interior. Using VR motion controls, you’ll be in full control of the vehicles, meaning there’s a steep learning curve. It’s not just grabbing the throttle and going; it’s an accurate simulator of being a pilot in state-of-the-art aircraft.
You’ll be performing high-speed manoeuvres and tasks like landing on an aircraft carrier. After each mission, you’ll be graded on your performance. Practice makes perfect, after all.
Flying Aces – Navy Pilot Simulator
Also from TAS Systems comes Flying Aces – Navy Pilot Simulator. This is an interesting situation as, at the time of writing, Flying Aces – Navy Pilot Simulator‘s Meta Horizon Store page uses the exact same screenshots as F/A-18 Pilot Simulator. Odd.
The difference comes down to the factoring of the gameplay, however. While they’re both intended to be accurate pilot simulations, F/A-18 Pilot Simulator is about the challenge therein, whilst Flying Aces – Navy Pilot Simulator “is a story based Flight Simulator experience.”
Microsoft Flight Simulator VR
“Microsoft Flight Simulator has been in VR for ages!”
Yes, this is true. However, late last year Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 launched on PlayStation 5 and, later this year, will receive official VR support for PSVR 2. The will be added via a free update sometime in 2026. An exact release window for the VR update has not been announced, but the developers have confirmed that the free update will bring the full globe-spanning simulation into VR on console.
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 features a highly detailed world with more than 40,000 airports, live weather and air traffic systems, and a broad range of aircraft from ultralights to heavy commercial jets. The addition of VR support will allow players to experience this massive simulation from the cockpit, enhancing immersion for both casual flyers and seasoned simulation enthusiasts alike.
Tinker Pilot
Tinker Pilot‘s Early Access debut on SteamVR wasn’t met with too much enthusiasm from press or content creators. In fact, other than the release date announcement, there was practically no coverage. But that’s a shame, as Tinker Pilot certainly looks like an interesting addition to VR flight simulator catalogue.
Why, you ask? Well, because Star Wars. Tinker Pilot sets itself apart by being a flight simulator that takes you into space. What’s more, the game allows you to design your won cockpit layout. You can rearrange everything to match your own real world setup. This is a feature that simply cannot be understated for maximising the accuracy of your simulation.
What’s Next for VR Flight Simulators?
While the above alone is an incredibly strong line-up for 2026, there are bound to be numerous other flight simulator games coming to VR this year. Have you heard about one we haven’t? Are you working on one yourself? Be sure to let us know in the comments below!
