Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 brings many new features and improvements, but if you’ve been playing MSFS 2020 for a while, you may find the new control scheme a bit frustrating. Many key binds have changed, which can make transitioning to the new version a challenge—especially if you’ve built up muscle memory over hundreds of hours of flying.
Fortunately, Microsoft allows you to revert to the classic MSFS 2020 keyboard controls with just a few simple steps. Here’s how you can quickly switch back to the familiar key commands.
How to Switch Back to MSFS 2020 Controls
If you want to restore the old control scheme, follow these steps:
- Open the Controls Options menu.
- Look for the Keyboard presets section in the lower left.
- Under General Controls, click the arrow next to “Keyboard 2024 Transversal.”
- Select the Keyboard 2020 profile.
- For aircraft-specific controls, click the arrow under Airplanes Controls.
- Select Keyboard 2020 Planes.
That’s it! Your keyboard shortcuts should now match those from MSFS 2020, making it easier to jump back into the cockpit without having to relearn everything.
What Does “Transversal” Controls Mean, Anyway?
In Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, the term “transversal” refers to controls that apply across different areas of the simulator. These include general commands like camera movement, menu navigation, and other non-aircraft-specific inputs. The transversal control scheme is designed to unify the way users interact with the simulator, but for long-time MSFS pilots, it can feel like an unnecessary change.
Why Use the Old Controls?
Switching back to the MSFS 2020 control scheme has several advantages:
- Keep your muscle memory intact – No need to retrain your fingers to a new layout.
- Avoid relearning key combinations – If you're used to the original shortcuts, this saves time.
- Maintain compatibility with older tutorials and guides – Many online resources still reference MSFS 2020 controls.
- Use familiar shortcuts while exploring new features – You can still enjoy the new content in MSFS 2024 without struggling with new key binds.
Above all of that: some people just prefer the older shortcuts when compared to newer ones. That said, the MSFS 2024 controls do come with a few small improvements—such as using the “P” key for pause by default. If you decide to switch back, it might be worth customising a few key binds to take advantage of these changes while keeping the overall feel of MSFS 2020.
Final Thoughts
Adapting to a new control scheme can be frustrating, especially for long-time flight sim enthusiasts. Thankfully, Microsoft has provided an easy way to restore the classic MSFS 2020 controls, so you can jump straight back into flying without missing a beat.
For more tips on improving your Microsoft Flight Simulator experience, check out our range of Flight Simulator Editing Keyboards at EditorsKeys.com. Our keyboards make flight simulating even more immersive with dedicated shortcuts designed for both MSFS 2020 and 2024!
Have you switched back to the MSFS 2020 controls, or are you sticking with the new layout? Let us know in the comments!
