FSX "Secret Shuttle" mission: engines start but the plane won’t move

Rob,

That mission uses the default shuttle carrier setup, so when the engines “rev” but the aircraft won’t budge it’s almost always one of the usual “you’re still tied down / brakes on / throttles not actually advancing” type issues.

Things to check (in order)

1. Make sure the parking brake is released.
2. Tap the normal brakes once or twice and then release (sometimes a brake axis can get “stuck” on).
3. Bring up the throttle indicator (if you have one mapped) and confirm your throttle is actually moving off idle. If you’re using a joystick/throttle, try advancing it slowly and watch for any jumpiness.
4. If you’re using a gamepad or custom key assignments, temporarily try the keyboard throttle commands to rule out a controller mapping problem (for example, a throttle axis not bound correctly, or bound to mixture/prop instead).
5. Check you’re not inadvertently in slew mode. If you are, the airplane won’t behave normally. Toggle slew off and try again.

One common FSX gotcha
If you have rudder pedals or toe brakes, a slightly “on” toe brake axis can keep you effectively locked in place even though the engines spool. As a quick test, disconnect the pedal USB (or disable that controller in FSX) and try the mission again using keyboard brakes/throttle.

Quick questions so I can narrow it down

• Which aircraft is it putting you in for the mission (default 737, etc.), and are you on the carrier deck?
• Are you using any pedals/toe brakes or a separate throttle quadrant?
• Do you see the aircraft trying to move (slight lurch), or is it completely frozen like it’s glued down?