Aerosoft CRJ 700/900 Payware: Mastering Regional Jet Operations in Microsoft Flight Simulator

The regional jet segment of commercial aviation is defined by the Bombardier CRJ series — a line of aircraft that has connected secondary cities to major hubs for decades. Aerosoft’s CRJ 700/900 payware add-on for Microsoft Flight Simulator (MSFS) brings these workhorses to life with an unprecedented level of fidelity. This in-depth rewrite and expansion examines every facet of the package, from systems depth to operational workflow, helping simmers decide whether this is the regional jet simulation they have been searching for.

Why the CRJ 700/900 Matters in Real-World Aviation

Before diving into the simulation, understand the real aircraft. The CRJ700 and CRJ900 are stretched variants of the original CRJ100/200, designed to carry 70 to 90 passengers on routes ranging from 500 to 1,500 nautical miles. These jets operate with exceptional efficiency in noisy airport environments and have been the backbone of airlines like Delta Connection (Endeavor Air) and United Express (Mesa Airlines). Pilots transitioning to the CRJ from smaller aircraft often praise its responsive flight controls and advanced Collins Pro Line 4 avionics. Aerosoft’s simulation seeks to replicate not just the look, but the feel and flow of these aircraft — from the distinctive nose gear steering to the nuanced autopilot modes.

Detailed Features and Systems Depth

The Aerosoft CRJ 700/900 is built around a comprehensive systems model that covers nearly every switch and circuit breaker in the cockpit. This is not a simplified “lite” version; it rewards procedural discipline and punishes shortcuts. Key areas include:

  • Flight Dynamics: A dedicated aerodynamic model based on real-world performance data, including climb rates, fuel burn, and approach speeds. The aircraft behaves correctly in crosswinds and during manual engine-out situations.
  • Glass Cockpit Replication: The Primary Flight Display (PFD) and Multi-Function Display (MFD) match the real Collins Pro Line 4. All symbology, declutter modes, and failure flags are present. The display reversion logic is faithfully implemented.
  • Engine and Systems Management: General Electric CF34-8C5 engines are modeled with realistic EGT, N1/N2 spool, and fuel scheduling. Bleed air systems, hydraulic pumps, electrical bus ties — all must be managed correctly to avoid cascading failures.
  • Customizable Failures: Over 60 configurable failures, from simple generator trips to severe ones like engine fires and uncommanded flap retraction. These can be triggered via the SimBrief integration or manually through the Aerosoft tablet.

Avionics and Automation

The heart of the CRJ’s automation is the Flight Management System (FMS) based on the Universal UNS-1E. Aerosoft has recreated this with incredible accuracy. Users can load SIDs, STARs, and approaches directly, perform holds, and execute complex procedures like RNAV (GNSS) approaches. The autopilot includes all standard modes (HDG, NAV, V/S, FLC, VNAV, APR) plus a unique “CPL” (couple) mode for ILS approaches. The integration with MSFS’s default navdata works well, but for current charts and AIRAC cycles, many pilots pair it with Navigraph.

Sound and Visuals

Immersive audio plays a huge role in realism. The CRJ package includes recorded engine sounds from the real CF34 — both inside and out, with distinct spool-up and spool-down tones. Callouts for landing gear, altitude alerts, and overspeed warnings are authentic. Visually, the exterior model features high-resolution textures, animated control surfaces, dynamic lighting for landing and taxi lights, and wing flex during turbulence. The cockpit textures show realistic wear and scuffing, adding to the feeling of a well-used regional workhorse.

Operational Workflow: From Cold & Dark to Shutdown

One of the strongest selling points of this add-on is how it enforces a realistic operational flow. The Aerosoft CRJ includes an interactive checklist system that mirrors typical airline Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Here’s a walkthrough of a typical flight:

  1. Pre-Start: Start from “cold and dark” — no electrical power. The user must set battery, ground power, and perform the exterior walkaround (a visual check of control surfaces, tires, and pitot covers).
  2. Startup: Engine start sequence demands attention to fuel flow, ignition, and N2 rise. A mistake (e.g., moving the start lever too early) can cause a hot start or starter damage.
  3. Taxi: Nosewheel steering is sensitive. Use the tiller or differential braking. The aircraft’s turning radius on the ramp is tighter than expected — a feature many simmers appreciate.
  4. Takeoff & Climb: Set V-speeds via the FMS. Apply reduced thrust for noise abatement (another realistic option). The CRJ hand-files well, mimicking the real aircraft’s tendency to pitch up quickly if not trimmed.
  5. Cruise & Descent: VNAV works well for efficient descents. The aircraft’s Mach number is limited to about 0.82, but it feels stable. Descent planning using the FMS’s “DES NOW” function is intuitive.
  6. Approach & Landing: Use the autopilot down to minimums if desired, though hand-flying the CRJ on an ILS is a rewarding challenge. The visual approach in the real aircraft is aided by a distinctive nose-up attitude; the simulation captures this.
  7. Shutdown: Parking brake, APU if needed, then secure the cockpit. The checklist walkthrough is satisfying for those who enjoy procedural immersion.

Learning Curve and Tutorial Support

Let’s be honest: the Aerosoft CRJ is not a “jump in and fly” add-on. The learning curve is steep for simmers accustomed to default aircraft or simpler payware. However, Aerosoft provides an extensive PDF manual (over 200 pages) that explains each system in detail. Additionally, the in-game tablet offers reference cards and a quick-start guide. For video tutorials, the community recommends channels like V1-Simulations and Into The Blue Simulations, which have dedicated CRJ series.

For flight planning, the add-on supports SimBrief integration. You can generate a flight plan in SimBrief, download it via the tablet, and the FMS will automatically load the route, fuel, and performance data. This seamless workflow is a huge time-saver and increases operational realism.

Comparison with Other Regional Jet Add-Ons

In the MSFS marketplace, the Aerosoft CRJ 700/900 competes with a few other regional jets. The FS Labs CRJ (for P3D) was legendary, but Aerosoft’s effort is the premier CRJ for MSFS. Compared to the default Airbus A320 or Boeing 737, the CRJ offers a completely different experience — manual thrust management, mechanical flight controls (no fly-by-wire feel), and a cramped but cozy cockpit. For simmers wanting a taste of legacy regional flying without migrating to the even smaller Embraer E-Jet (which lacks an MSFS payware variant of similar depth), the Aerosoft CRJ is the gold standard.

Performance and Compatibility

Performance is acceptable on mid-range systems. The cockpit uses a lot of textures and the complex FMS code can cause some stutters on older CPUs. Aerosoft has released several updates to optimize memory usage and VR compatibility. For VR users, the add-on works well, though the tiny cockpit text can be challenging to read without adjusting scaling. The add-on is compatible with MSFS 2020 and has been tested with the SU15 beta.

Community and Updates

Aerosoft maintains an active support forum and a dedicated CRJ sub-forum where users share tips, report bugs, and suggest improvements. The developer has released several major updates adding features like advanced weather radar, improved EFB functions, and new livery templates. The base package includes over 20 liveries, and the paint kit is available on the Aerosoft website for creators.

For those seeking to expand the experience further, third-party add-ons like RealSimulator’s CRJ throttle quadrant hardware can be integrated for a full home cockpit. Additionally, SimBrief remains the go-to flight planner for CRJ operations, with a custom integration profile available on the Aerosoft website.

An Honest Look at Drawbacks

No add-on is perfect. Some users report occasional FMS freezes when loading complex STARs, requiring a cold restart. The autopilot’s altitude capture can be overly aggressive (pitching down hard to capture from above). The ground handling is sensitive — even a slight rudder input at low speeds can cause a swerve. These are minor, but detract from an otherwise stellar simulation. Aerosoft has been proactive with patches, so many early issues have been resolved. The SID/STAR loading, for example, now works much more reliably than at launch.

Conclusion: Is the Aerosoft CRJ 700/900 Worth It?

For the simmer who loves north American regional flying, manual procedures, and a thoroughly simulated aircraft, the Aerosoft CRJ 700/900 is an essential purchase. It offers depth comparable to high-end airliner add-ons like the PMDG 737 or Fenix A320, but in a smaller, more agile package. The attention to detail — from the accurate radio stack to the realistic autofeather on engine failure — makes it a fantastic training tool and a rewarding challenge. Whether you are flying between Seattle and Spokane or planning a trans-Atlantic cargo run (yes, the cargo variant is included), the Aerosoft CRJ delivers an experience that is both educational and exhilarating.

If you are serious about regional jet operations, this payware will elevate your flight sim hobby to new levels of immersion. Prepare to study the manual, practice your flows, and enjoy the unique character of the Bombardier CRJ as faithfully recreated by Aerosoft.

External references: For real-world CRJ operational manuals, the Bombardier website provides technical overviews. For community discussions, visit AVSIM’s CRJ forum. For purchase and latest update information, see the Aerosoft product page.