Spoilers...How to Auto Deploy???

Hello Kevin,

Warm greetings to you, and welcome back to the forum! I can definitely help guide you through the process of automating your spoilers in Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004. Let's cut to the chase.

For aircraft using the standard flight model, Flight Simulator 2004 doesn't allow for automatic spoiler deployment through the aircraft.cfg. The option to arm the spoilers isn't natively supported in the software, and your action of using / or shift+/ for manual deployment is typically the standard approach.

However, some third-party aircraft, especially complex ones, may have a specific auto spoiler feature built into their unique flight models or panels. The details of enabling this feature can often be found in the aircraft's specific documentation. If you're using such an aircraft, do consult the relevant user manual for details.

On a different note, another workaround could be to make use of custom keybinding scripts with software like FSUIPC (a popular interface software between hardware and the FS series). Here's a step-by-step guide:

Download and install FSUIPC: This can be done from the official website of the software.

Create a new keybinding: In the FSUIPC interface, you can assign a specific keybinding for 'Spoilers Arm Set' and 'Spoilers Arm On/Off'. Once you have armed the spoilers using this key, they should automatically deploy upon landing.

Apply the settings: Ensure that the settings are saved and applied the next time you run FS2004.

A word of caution: While this might solve your immediate need, remember that using automatic systems takes away some control from the pilot. As you are no doubt aware, situational awareness and control are key in those critical final moments of approach and landing.

Also, bear in mind that this solution applies primarily to FS2004 but may be adaptable for other platforms like Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 and X-Plane 12, as these platforms also support FSUIPC or similar interface programs (like XPUIPC for X-Plane). Always refer to the specific user manual or community forums for further guidance specific to these platforms.

I hope this guidance aids you in achieving your desired setup. Should you have any further queries, don't hesitate to post. We're here to help!

From my knowledge, this is the most practical solution available. If any other forum members have alternative suggestions, it would be great to hear them.

Blue skies!