Google Earth’s flight simulator is now available in your browser
Google has made the hidden flight simulator mode in Google Earth accessible without any downloads, allowing users to fly directly from a web browser.
On Friday, Google announced it was bringing a relatively obscure feature of Google Earth to a wider audience. The desktop version of Google Earth has had a hidden flight simulator mode since 2007, but it is now easily accessible through a web browser without needing to download or install any apps.
To take to the virtual skies, open the Google Earth website and click on the “Explore Earth” button located near the top right corner. From there, you’ll find the “Flight Simulator” mode as the last option in the Tools section of the site’s top menu bar. For the best experience, first find an interesting location, as the initial default view might be over a featureless ocean. Also, make sure to change the basemap type from Map to Satellite for a photorealistic experience.
Google has shared a help page detailing how to use your keyboard or mouse to control your aircraft. While the experience isn’t as complex or realistic as in games like Microsoft Flight Simulator, it will still require some practice to navigate without crashing. Should your flight end with an unplanned impact, the simulator pauses and offers the option to reset your aircraft to a safe altitude.
