Introduction: The Aerosoft Twin Otter Extended in MSFS

The de Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter is one of aviation’s most beloved utility aircraft, known for its short takeoff and landing (STOL) capabilities, rugged reliability, and versatility. Aerosoft’s Aerosoft Twin Otter Extended brings this iconic bush plane to Microsoft Flight Simulator with exceptional detail, including realistic systems, high-resolution textures, and immersive sound. Whether you're flying cargo to remote airstrips or performing scenic tours, this add‑on elevates your simulation experience. This guide provides a thorough, step‑by‑step installation walkthrough to ensure you get the aircraft into your hangar quickly and without errors.

Prerequisites: What You Need Before You Start

Before downloading and installing the Twin Otter Extended, verify that your system meets the following requirements:

  • Microsoft Flight Simulator (2020 or 2024) – installed and updated to the latest version. The add‑on is compatible with both releases, but always check Aerosoft’s official compatibility notes.
  • Active internet connection – required for downloading the installer and for any activation or license verification.
  • Administrator rights – the installer must write files to protected directories. Right‑click the installer and select “Run as administrator” if prompted.
  • Purchased or downloaded installer – obtain the aircraft from the official Aerosoft shop or an authorized marketplace like SimMarket. Ensure you have your order number or license key handy if activation is needed.
  • Disk space – at least 2–3 GB free on the drive where MSFS is installed.

Step‑by‑Step Installation Process

Step 1: Download the Aerosoft Twin Otter Extended

Visit the official Aerosoft website and navigate to the Twin Otter Extended product page. After purchasing, you will receive a download link (usually via email or your account dashboard). Download the installer executable (TwotterExtended_Setup.exe or similar) to a convenient location on your PC, such as the Downloads folder. If you purchased from a third‑party marketplace, follow their download procedure and retrieve the installer.

Step 2: Prepare Your System

Before running the installer, take a few precautions to avoid conflicts:

  • Update MSFS – launch Microsoft Flight Simulator, check for updates via the in‑game settings, and install any pending patches. An outdated sim can cause compatibility issues.
  • Back up your Community folder – if you have many add‑ons, consider creating a temporary backup of Packages\Community (located in your MSFS install directory). This allows easy rollback if something goes wrong.
  • Close unnecessary applications – antivirus software or firewall tools may interfere with the installation. Temporarily disable them or add the installer to your whitelist.
  • Run as administrator – right‑click the installer file and select “Run as administrator” to ensure full write permissions.

Step 3: Run the Installer

Double‑click the installer (or use “Run as administrator”). The setup wizard will open. Follow these sub‑steps:

  1. Welcome screen – click “Next” to proceed.
  2. License agreement – read the end‑user license agreement (EULA) and accept it before continuing.
  3. Choose destination folder – the installer will try to automatically detect your MSFS installation path. The default location is typically:
    C:\Users\[YourUsername]\AppData\Local\Packages\Microsoft.FlightSimulator_8wekyb3d8bbwe\LocalCache\Packages
    Note: The original article listed a path under C:\Program Files\WindowsApps\, but most modern MSFS installations (Steam or Microsoft Store) use the AppData\Local route. The installer usually finds the correct folder automatically. If it doesn’t, browse to your MSFS Packages folder manually.
  4. Select optional components – some installers allow you to choose between standard and “Extended” features (e.g., high‑detail interior, additional liveries). Keep the defaults unless you have specific needs.
  5. Install – click “Install” and wait for the progress bar to complete. This may take several minutes depending on your PC speed.

Step 4: Complete the Installation & Activation

Once the files are copied, the installer may prompt you to activate the product. If activation is required, enter your license key (provided in your purchase confirmation email). If the Twin Otter uses an online activation system, ensure your internet is connected. After activation, click “Finish” to exit the setup. The aircraft files are now placed inside the correct Packages\Community folder, ready for MSFS to load.

Step 5: Launch MSFS and Verify the Aircraft

Open Microsoft Flight Simulator. Allow the sim to load and index new content (this may cause a slight delay). Then:

  1. Go to the Main Menu and select “World” → “Airport” or choose a flight.
  2. In the aircraft selection screen, type “Twotter” or “DHC‑6” in the search bar. The Aerosoft Twin Otter Extended should appear (sometimes listed as “Aerosoft DHC‑6 Twin Otter Extended” or “Twotter Extended”).
  3. Select it and pick a livery (several are included).
  4. Choose a departure airport and start your flight.

If the aircraft does not appear, close MSFS and verify the installation path (see Troubleshooting section below).

Post‑Installation Checks and First Flight Tips

Before your first take‑off, familiarize yourself with the Twin Otter’s unique features:

  • Review the included manual (PDF in the aircraft folder inside the Community directory).
  • Check the Aerosoft support forum for known issues and user‑shared configuration tips.
  • Adjust your flight controls and bindings – the Twin Otter often uses a throttle quadrant with reverse thrust, so configure those axes in MSFS settings.
  • Perform a pre‑flight inspection using the integrated maintenance check (if available) to ensure systems like fuel, hydraulics, and flaps are functional.

Start with a short flight from a small strip to get a feel for the aircraft’s STOL behavior. The manual provides V‑speeds and power settings for various phases of flight.

Troubleshooting Common Installation Issues

Aircraft Not Showing in MSFS

  • Wrong Community folder – confirm that the installer placed the aircraft inside the correct Packages\Community folder. On Steam, it’s usually under C:\Users\[user]\AppData\Local\Packages\Microsoft.FlightSimulator_8wekyb3d8bbwe\LocalCache\Packages\Community. For the Microsoft Store version, the path is similar. Manually copy the ‘aeroworx’ or ‘aerosoft’ subfolder if needed.
  • Sim not restarted – close and reboot MSFS after installation; the sim indexes new content only on startup.
  • Antivirus quarantine – check your antivirus logs; some security software mistakenly deletes installer files. Add an exception and re‑run the installer.

Activation Errors

  • Check internet – online activation requires a stable connection. Try switching off VPN or using a tethered network.
  • License key mismatch – ensure you copied the key exactly (including hyphens). Contact Aerosoft support if the key is not accepted.
  • Reinstall – if activation fails multiple times, uninstall the aircraft using the provided uninstaller, reboot, then reinstall as administrator.

Performance Issues or Stuttering

  • Graphics settings – the Twin Otter Extended uses high‑resolution textures. Lower your MSFS “Texture resolution” or “Object LOD” if you experience frame drops.
  • Update drivers – ensure your GPU drivers are up to date (NVIDIA or AMD).
  • Remove conflicting mods – some generic aircraft livery or system mods can interfere. Temporarily move other add‑ons out of the Community folder and test.

Keeping Your Twin Otter Up to Date

Aerosoft periodically releases updates that improve systems, fix bugs, or add new features. To stay updated:

  • Visit the official Aerosoft product page and check the “Downloads” tab for patches.
  • Alternatively, log into your Aerosoft account and re‑download the installer – newer versions are often provided for free to existing owners.
  • Uninstall the old version before installing an update to avoid file conflicts.

Additional Resources and Community Support

If you run into problems beyond basic installation, the flight simulation community is an excellent resource. Consider these links:

Conclusion: Ready for the Bush and Beyond

With the Aerosoft Twin Otter Extended successfully installed, you can now explore every corner of the globe – from alpine strips in the Himalayas to sand bars in the Maldives. The installation process is straightforward if you follow the steps above, but always double‑check folder paths and permissions. Enjoy the blend of STOL performance and detailed simulation that only the Twin Otter can deliver. Happy flying!