Quick Facts

  • Game: Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020
  • Deadline: Sunday, August 2
  • Action Required: Claim the free expansion in the marketplace before removal
  • Included Content: F/A-18E Super Hornet, Darkstar Experimental, and training missions

Four years after its initial debut, Microsoft Flight Simulator is sunsetting one of its most popular add-ons. Players who want to fly the Super Hornet or the experimental Darkstar prototype need to claim the free expansion from the in-game marketplace by Sunday, August 2, before it is pulled entirely.

Microsoft and Paramount collaborated closely on the crossover, which originally launched on May 22, 2022, arriving five days ahead of the theatrical release of Top Gun: Maverick. While light on overall content, the expansion packed in a heavier, more powerful take on the base F/A-18 design with the Super Hornet, alongside the secretive SR-72 reconnaissance-inspired Darkstar, which pushes speeds up to Mach 10.

Beyond the aircraft, the add-on introduced specific training missions focused on aerobatics, low flying, and challenging carrier landings. According to the announcement, once the August 2 deadline passes, Maverick will no longer be available through the official marketplace add-on.

What Happens If You Already Own It?

For players still using Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 who claim the expansion before the August 2 cutoff, the add-on stays in your personal library and remains available for download at any time. However, Microsoft has not announced any plans to port the Top Gun: Maverick DLC over to Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024.

Players transitioning to Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 still have access to the standard edition's F/A-18E Super Hornet. Fans looking for classic naval options can also acquire the F-14 Tomcat add-on co-developed by Heatblur Simulations and IndiaEchoFoxtrot, which is fully compatible with MSFS2024.

Alternative platforms also feature the content for aviation enthusiasts seeking naval fighter experiences. Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown offers a Top Gun: Maverick Aircraft Set featuring playable aircraft including the Darkstar, while DCS World provides paid DLC options for the F/A-18C and the F-14 Tomcat.