Last Friday (12), the Google Earth platform incorporated a completely free flight simulator into its web version, providing an innovative way of exploring the planet. Users can now fly over different regions, taking advantage of the high-resolution aerial images that the tool offers. The good news is that this new feature is compatible with all major internet browsers, including Chrome, Edge, Firefox and Safari.
The Mountain View giant detailed that this feature was “designed for casual exploration, not high-fidelity aerodynamic training.” This means that it differs significantly from more complex games like Microsoft Flight Simulator and X-Plane 12, as it does not require advanced hardware to run. However, it is important to note that the quality of the internet connection can influence performance, especially when loading images in high definition.
How to start your virtual riding experience in Google Earth
For those who want to experience the new aerial navigation functionality that integrates the map service and the interactive virtual globe, Google Earth Flight Simulator features simpler flight physics and keyboard-based controls. Check out the step-by-step guide to start flying:
- Access the Google Earth portal using your internet browser.
- When the main page appears, select the “Explore the Earth” option, located in the top section.
- Enter the name of the desired location in the platform’s search field to find it.
- In the “Tools” menu, located at the top of the screen, choose the “Flight Simulator” option.
- Use the keys on your keyboard to perform maneuvers and guide the aircraft in the chosen direction.
The controls were designed to be intuitive, without the need for joysticks or other accessories. The directional arrows (up, down, left and right) control movement, while the Page Up and Page Down keys are used, respectively, to accelerate and brake the aircraft. A valuable tip is to activate the satellite view when searching for the city you want to fly over, for a more immersive experience.
Another point that facilitates use is the absence of complex aircraft taxiing, takeoff and landing procedures. The user just needs to select the starting point for their virtual trip and start the flight. If an error or problem occurs during the simulation, simply click on the return arrow, in the top left corner of the screen, to return to the search page and restart the experience.
It is important to highlight that the functionality is still in the experimental phase, and Google warns that some inconsistencies may arise when using the tool. For more details on the control keys and access additional tips for smoother flying, users can refer to the dedicated Google Earth support page.
