Google Earth’s flight simulator is a desktop feature for flying an SR22 or F-16 over the globe. You run it in the installed Mac, Windows, or Linux application, starting either from the view currently on screen or from an airport in Google’s list. A joystick is optional: Google also documents mouse-and-keyboard controls.
The feature is best understood as an interactive way to explore Google Earth with flight-style controls and a heads-up display (HUD). Google’s documentation does not establish that it is a realistic flight-training simulator, certify particular joystick models, describe a complete aircraft-systems simulation, or document airport coverage. Those questions remain outside what the official help page confirms.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
What Google Earth’s flight simulator is
The flight simulator is built into the installed desktop version of Google Earth. Google lists Mac, Windows and Linux computers as supported platforms and says you need either a joystick or a mouse and keyboard to control the aircraft. The feature is not described as part of Google Earth’s browser or mobile experience in the cited help material.
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minuteWindows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallOnce started, the simulator places you in one of two aircraft: a Cirrus SR22 or an F-16. You can launch from the geographic view already displayed or choose an airport from an available drop-down list. The simulator also shows flight-related values such as heading, speed, altitude and vertical speed while you fly.
#1 Best Overall
- COMFORTABLE ERGONOMIC HOTAS DESIGN - Fly for hours without fatigue thanks to the wide hand rest and real size ergonomically shaped throttle control that keeps your hands in a natural position. Every flight sim session feels as immersive as sitting in an actual cockpit with your favorite flight simulator controller setup.
- FULLY PROGRAMMABLE FLIGHT CONTROLS - Customize all 12 action buttons and 5 axes to match your preferred flight sim setup, giving you instant command over every function in your joystick for flight simulator games, whether you are navigating civil aviation routes or engaging in intense military combat maneuvers across your favorite titles.
- DETACHABLE THROTTLE FOR FLEXIBLE SETUP - Separate the full size throttle from the joystick to create your ideal flight sim cockpit mount configuration, or keep them connected for a compact desktop arrangement, giving you the versatility to build the perfect hotas flight stick arrangement that suits your space and play style.
- PRECISION JOYSTICK WITH ADJUSTABLE RESISTANCE - Enjoy pinpoint accuracy with a high precision flight joystick featuring a resistance dial that lets you fine tune stick tension to your liking, plus dual rudder control via handle rotation or progressive tilting lever so your aerial maneuvers feel smooth and perfectly responsive every single flight.
- PLUG AND PLAY INSTANT TAKEOFF READY - Skip complicated configuration and start flying immediately with preconfigured controls, an exclusive preset button to swap profiles on the fly, and built-in memory that saves your custom programming even when the flight stick is disconnected, ensuring you are always ready for your next mission.
That combination makes the feature useful for visual exploration and for learning its own controls. It should not automatically be treated as a substitute for a certified trainer, a cockpit procedures device or real-world instruction. Google’s help page explains how to operate the feature, but does not make those broader claims.
How to start it on a computer
- Open the installed desktop application. Use Google Earth on a Mac, Windows or Linux computer rather than assuming that the same menu exists in a browser or phone app.
- Open the simulator. Choose Tools → Enter Flight Simulator. On Windows, Google lists Ctrl + Alt + A; on Mac, it lists Command + Option + A.
- Choose an aircraft. Select the SR22 or the F-16. Google suggests the SR22 for a beginner and the F-16 for a skilled pilot; that is guidance about starting difficulty, not a published performance comparison.
- Choose where to begin. Start from the current view or select an airport from the available airport menu.
- Choose your controller. Use a connected joystick if you have one, or select the mouse-and-keyboard method described by Google.
- Begin the flight. The simulator opens with the selected aircraft, starting point and control method.
If you want to change the aircraft, starting location or controller after entering the simulator, exit first and launch it again with the new choices. Google documents the on-screen exit control and the same launch shortcut as ways to leave or reopen the feature.
Aircraft and starting-point choices
| Choice | What Google documents | How to interpret it |
|---|---|---|
| SR22 | Suggested for a beginner | A reasonable first selection when you are learning the interface and basic control movements |
| F-16 | Suggested for a skilled pilot | Better suited to a user who already feels comfortable with the simulator’s controls |
| Current view | Starts from the view currently displayed in Google Earth | Useful when you have already navigated to a particular area you want to explore |
| Airport from the drop-down | Starts from an airport selected in the available list | Useful when you want to begin from one of the locations offered by the simulator |
The official material does not publish a side-by-side specification sheet for the two aircraft. It gives the SR22-versus-F-16 recommendation above, but does not establish differences in aerodynamic fidelity, speed, systems, airport access or other performance characteristics.
Using a joystick
A joystick is optional, not a stated requirement. Google’s joystick instructions describe a simple sequence: accelerate down the runway, pull back to lift off, then make small control movements. The wording emphasizes gradual inputs rather than large, abrupt movements.
Rank #2
- INSTANT PLUG AND PLAY SETUP - Stop wasting time with complicated installations and start flying in seconds because this USB joystick is recognized immediately by your system with zero driver headaches, letting you jump straight into your favorite flight simulator, space sim joystick adventure, or combat flight stick scenario without any frustrating delays or technical setup.
- PRECISE ADJUSTABLE RESISTANCE CONTROL - Feel total command over every maneuver with an extremely precise flight joystick featuring adjustable resistance that lets you fine tune stick tension to match your flying style, whether you are executing gentle banking turns in a flight simulator controller session or engaging in intense dogfights that demand razor sharp responsiveness.
- SOLID WEIGHTED STABILITY BASE - Never worry about your flight stick sliding or tipping during critical moments thanks to a heavily weighted base that keeps your joystick for pc firmly planted on your desk, giving you the confidence to make aggressive inputs during turbulent helicopter controller scenarios or high speed combat engagements without any unwanted movement.
- BUILT IN THROTTLE AND RUDDER TWIST - Enjoy a complete flight control system in one device with an ergonomic integrated throttle lever for smooth speed management and a rotating handle with a built in locking system that delivers flawless rudder control, eliminating the need for separate rudder pedals or a standalone flight throttle while saving valuable desk space.
- FULLY PROGRAMMABLE BUTTONS AND PRESETS - Customize every aspect of your gaming joystick experience using twelve reprogrammable buttons, an exclusive mapping button, and a preset button with internal memory that stores your configurations, so you can instantly switch between flight sim stick profiles for different joystick for flight simulator games and aircraft types.
Google does not name a supported joystick model, provide a compatibility list or guarantee that a particular USB device will work. If the simulator does not recognize your controller, consult the joystick’s own setup instructions and confirm that the operating system sees the device before launching the simulator. That is a practical setup check, not a Google-certified compatibility test.
Because the documented instructions do not specify a model, connector, calibration procedure or button map, avoid buying a device on the assumption that a particular product is officially supported. The reliable fact is simply that Google offers joystick input as one of the two documented control methods.
Mouse-and-keyboard controls
You can fly without a joystick. Google’s alternative instructions use the keyboard for thrust and course corrections, with the mouse involved in takeoff.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems| Task | Documented input |
|---|---|
| Increase thrust | Press Page Up |
| Initiate takeoff | Use mouse movement |
| Correct the course | Use the arrow keys |
| Change how quickly the view turns | Hold Alt or Ctrl with the arrow keys |
| Pause or resume | Press the spacebar |
The help instructions do not provide a complete keyboard reference in the supplied material, so the table should not be read as a claim that every aircraft function has a documented key. It lists the controls Google explicitly describes for the mouse-and-keyboard method.
Rank #3
- 【With Vibration Function】This flight stick is ONLY for PC/Computer and ONLY compatible with Windows 7/8/10/11 (Mac/Apple computers/Apple devices/PS3/PS4/PS5/Xbox One/Switch not supported).PXN2113 PRO gaming joystick for pc will never let you down with realistic fly experience. Compatible with many flight joystick pc games: World of Tanks,World of Warplanes,War Thunder,Assault Horizon,Microsoft Flight Simulator,X Plane 10,etc. Vibration Switch is at the bottom,please switch to“ON”.If less than 20%,you will almost not feel the vibration.Please set the vibration strength in the driver to 50% or higher for this joystick pc flight simulator.
- 【Immersive Fly Experience for Your Flying Dream】You can make the right moves with rapid fire trigger,4 axis controlling,8-Way hat switch and 12 programmable buttons of this computer joystick for gaming pc flight.Advanced software,Support various custom adjustment and keyboard mapping,enjoy exciting joystick flight simulator controls for pc games now! Not only a game, but also a dream of flying!
- 【FAQ】:Q1:Why doesn't it work on my pc/Xbox? A: It is ONLY for PC and Windows 7/8/10/11(Not for Mac/Apple devices/Xbox).Please turn on pc First and then connect with this joystick.If not,some pc may not identify it. Q2: How to install the driver? A: No need to install the driver and can play games directly.If you need driver,please find "Installation" section in manual or follow below steps: 1:Visit PXN official website→Support→Driver→Find PXN-2113PRO driver to download. 2:Extract the driver and install. 3:Plug joystick into PC USB port,pc will identify new hardware and install automatically. 4:Play games or set the joystick in driver.The drive can test and calibrate the pc flight joystick.
- 【Comfortable to Hold, Agile to Operate】This usb joystick for pc is with a solid and smooth feeling,very comfortable.Four power-grip suction cups at the bottom of this pc joystick for flight simulator pc games,they can fix firmly and easily when the table is smooth.Precise throttle control,Ergonomic design,Single hand control full function with this flight joystick for pc games.(Note:Force Feedback/Minecraft/Asphalt 8/Ace Combat 7 not supported).This Flight simulation pc controller with Friendly and Easy-to-Reach Customer Service.If any problem,please contact us directly(Contact Seller),Fengying will reply within 12 hours.
- 【Setup Guide for Microsoft Flight Simulator】For PXN 2113 flight sim joystick pc setup in Microsoft Flight Simulation,please refer to below images and follow below steps: Step 1: Launch the game and click"MENU.FLOWBAR_ OPTIONS",select“MENU.OPTIONS CONTROLS". Step 2: Except the keyboard and mouse mode, also have joystick mode in game.Please click“GENERIC USB JOYSTICK" to map the key. (Note:The joystick should be plugged into PC before this setting). Step 3: For function settings,take “INPUT.KEY_ _SWITCH_ CAMERA"as an example,scroll down to select“Select an input",click No.12 button,finally click“VALIDATE”to save.
A simple first takeoff
- Select the SR22 if you are new to the feature.
- Use an airport start if you want the simulator to place you at one of its listed airports; otherwise use the current geographic view.
- Increase thrust with Page Up when using the keyboard method, or accelerate down the runway with the joystick method.
- Use the mouse to initiate takeoff with the keyboard-and-mouse method, or pull back gently on the joystick to lift off.
- Once airborne, use small joystick movements or the arrow keys for course corrections.
- Press the spacebar whenever you need to pause, then press it again to resume.
These steps describe the controls Google publishes. They are not a claim about real-aircraft takeoff technique or a lesson in piloting.
What the HUD shows
The simulator’s HUD presents several values and control-state indicators. Reading them can help you understand what the on-screen aircraft is doing, but their presence alone does not prove that the underlying flight model matches a real aircraft.
- Heading: the aircraft’s direction.
- Speed in knots: the displayed airspeed value uses knots.
- Bank angle: how far the aircraft is tilted laterally.
- Vertical speed in feet per minute: the rate of climb or descent shown by the simulator.
- Throttle: the current throttle indication.
- Rudder, aileron and elevator: control-surface indications shown by the HUD.
- Flap and gear indicators: the displayed state of those two items.
- Pitch angle: the aircraft’s nose-up or nose-down attitude.
- Altitude: the displayed height value.
For a first session, watch heading, altitude and vertical speed while making small inputs. The other indicators provide additional context about the control states the simulator is displaying. Google’s documentation does not specify the full internal behavior represented by each indicator or list every simulated aircraft system.
Recommended Free Tools
Can you use it in a browser or on a phone?
The cited Google instructions document the installed desktop application on Mac, Windows and Linux. They do not describe a web version of the flight simulator or a mobile workflow. Therefore, the supported path established here is to install and run Google Earth on a computer; the documentation does not let you confirm that the same simulator is available in a browser or phone app.
Rank #4
- REALISTIC FLIGHT SIMULATOR CONTROL - Experience true hands-on flying with a precision HOTAS joystick and throttle system designed for immersive flight simulator gameplay. Ideal for flight simulation.
- ERGONOMIC FLIGHT STICK DESIGN - Comfortable flight stick joystick with adjustable resistance, responsive trigger, hat switch, and multiple programmable buttons for smooth aircraft control during takeoff, landing, and combat maneuvers.
- DETACHABLE THROTTLE FOR VERSATILE SETUPS - Modular design allows the flight stick and throttle to be used together on a desk or separately on your lap, ideal for cockpit, desk, or casual flight simulator setups.
- PLUG & PLAY FOR PC & CONSOLE - Easy USB connection delivers instant compatibility with Windows PC and Xbox Series X|S. This flight simulator controller requires no complex setup and works seamlessly with most popular flight sim software.
- ADAPTED FOR ALL FLIGHT SIMULATION TYPES – Adjustable joystick resistance and ergonomically placed buttons deliver precise control across all aircraft categories. Ideal for commercial aviation, combat jets, and helicopters, making it perfect for both beginner pilots and seasoned flight sim enthusiasts.
If you open Google Earth on the web and do not see Tools → Enter Flight Simulator, that is consistent with the documented desktop-only workflow. It is not evidence that Google has permanently ruled out every other platform; it simply falls outside what this help page explains.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How realistic is it?
Google presents the feature as a way to explore the globe with an aircraft and HUD. Its help material explains aircraft selection, starting locations, input methods and basic controls. It does not evaluate aerodynamic realism or claim that the simulator teaches real-world piloting.
The same documentation does not establish:
- that the SR22 or F-16 reproduces real aircraft performance to a training standard;
- that the feature includes a complete set of aircraft systems or cockpit procedures;
- that the simulator is suitable for certification, flight-school instruction or emergency-procedure practice;
- how extensive the airport coverage is;
- which joystick models are guaranteed to work.
Those are evidence limits, not proof that a specific capability is absent. A user can observe the HUD and control behavior, but should not convert those observations into a claim that the feature is an approved or realistic training device.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Choosing the best way to use it
| Decision | Option one | Option two |
|---|---|---|
| Controller | Joystick: physical control input; Google advises small movements | Mouse and keyboard: no joystick required; uses Page Up, mouse movement, arrow keys and the spacebar as documented |
| Starting point | Current view: begin from the location already shown | Airport: choose from the available drop-down list |
| Aircraft | SR22: Google’s suggestion for beginners | F-16: Google’s suggestion for skilled pilots |
The best choice depends on what you want to do first. Use the SR22 and keyboard controls to learn the interface with no extra hardware. Use a joystick if you prefer a physical control and your device documentation supports setup on your computer. Choose the current view when you have a specific place in mind, or an airport when you want one of the listed airport starts.
Best Value
- Military-grade Space and Flight Sim Precision. Customizable options including all the control surface options required to achieve the exact level of performance that aspiring combat pilots demand.System Requirements : Windows 11,10,8.1,7, 2x USB 2.0 Port
- New Mini Analog Stick Control Surfaces: Control pitch, roll, yaw, backwards, forwards, up, down, left and right as well as gimballed weapons that are controlled separately from the space craft
- RGB Backlighting: Many PC peripherals now feature RGB backlighting and the X-56 is no exception. Use the software to set the color of the lighting to match the rest of your gaming rig
- Ideal for VR: The X-56 places controls perfectly under your fingers where subtle distinctions in button feel and shape help you navigate the control set with ease
- Fully Featured HOTAS: Accurate 16-bit aileron and elevator axis with hall-effect sensors. Adjustable Stick Force via Advanced 4-Spring System. Twin Throttles with Friction Adjuster and Throttle Lock
Troubleshooting the documented workflow
The simulator menu or shortcut does nothing
Confirm that you are running the installed desktop application, then use Tools → Enter Flight Simulator. Windows uses Ctrl + Alt + A; Mac uses Command + Option + A. The cited instructions do not provide a separate browser shortcut.
You want to switch aircraft or location
Exit the simulator first, then launch it again and make the new aircraft or starting-point selection. Google specifically describes exiting before changing those setup choices.
The joystick does not respond
Google does not publish model-specific compatibility details. Follow the joystick manufacturer’s setup instructions, make sure the operating system recognizes the controller, and then start the simulator again. Do not treat an unlisted device as guaranteed or unsupported solely because Google’s page is silent.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
You need a break during a flight
Press the spacebar to pause and press it again to resume. To leave completely, use the on-screen exit control or the launch shortcut again.
What to expect from the feature
In practical terms, Google Earth’s flight simulator gives you a globe-based flying interface with two aircraft choices, two documented control approaches and a set of flight-style readouts. It lets you select a starting view or an airport and pause or exit when needed.
Its boundaries are equally important: the official help page does not promise browser or mobile access, realistic training fidelity, complete aircraft systems, broad airport coverage or compatibility with a named joystick. Treat it as an exploration feature with simulator controls, and use the documentation-backed workflow above when you want to try it.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
