Closed Traffic Podcast

40 Episodes
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By: Johnny Green, Michael Salmon, and Charlie Roper

Average aviation enthusiast covering all things aviation and flight simulation.Hosted by Johnny Green Michael Salmon and Charlie Roper

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Inside Aircraft Repossession
Yesterday at 1:00 PM

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We sit down with repo veteran and TV personality Ken Cage to unpack what it really takes to recover aircraft and boats when payments stop. Then we shift gears into Microsoft Flight Simulator talk with candid takes on the iniBuilds A380, GSX jetways, and the latest add-on releases. 

• Ken’s background in repossession and government contracts 
• What the repossession timeline looks like from past due to recovery 
• Why Ken hires pilots and never flies the repossessed aircraft himself 
• How economic cycles change repo volume and asset values 
• What was real vs...


Let's Chat Hawkers! FlightFX Returns to Closed Traffic Podcast
09/14/2026

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We catch up with FlightFX and dig into how the Hawker 800 for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 went from “why this jet?” to a deeply detailed aircraft with real pilot workflows and smart sim-friendly improvements. We also get an unfiltered look at launch strategy, community feedback, and why 2024-only development is becoming the only sustainable path.
• remembering 9/11 and how shared events reshape communities
• why FlightFX picked the Hawker and what real-world access changed
• how the 3D and systems pipeline becomes a “toolbox” for future aircraft
• using real Hawker pilots in beta and how that pre...


Mach.92 V2 + Striking That Balance
08/31/2026

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We break down a busy stretch in flight sim, from the FlightFX Citation X Version 2 release to Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 Sim Update 6 and the constant push and pull between performance, visuals, and stability. We also dig into X-Plane’s steady progress, why VR has become our default way to fly, and a personal return to real-world flying with a hard reminder that legal is not the same as proficient. 
• FlightFX Citation X V2 upgrades and why it raises the bar for business jet fidelity 
• What’s still missing in long-range business jets and w...


When The Discord Melts And The Engine Takes A Sandwich Break
08/10/2026

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We catch up as the full crew reunites, starting with summer ramp misery and the real-world limits heat puts on flying decisions. Then we dig into the Synaptic A220 release, why it sparked so much drama, and what it teaches about aircraft nuance, developer QA, and how airlines and engines shape what we see in the sky. 

• summer heat, humidity, and density altitude affecting real flying motivation and safety margins 
• first impressions of the Synaptic Airbus A220 in Microsoft Flight Simulator, including performance and handling feel 
• why streamer-first rollouts can confu...


What If The Airports We Ignore Matter Most
07/27/2026

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We catch up with Fly2High’s Lee and Ashton to talk about building high-quality airport scenery for the places most developers skip, from Tulsa and Birmingham to the upcoming Houston Hobby. We get honest about LOD performance, ground textures, marketplace delays, and why owning your own distribution platform can change how fast customers get updates.

•Fly2High’s origin story and how the team structure evolves
•Why mid-sized and niche airports matter for realistic route flying
•How airport selection shifts from reactive to planned roadmaps
•Ashton’s move from GSX...


Charlie Won’t Make Payroll And Somehow That’s Immersive
07/06/2026

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We talk with Jet Card founder Sean Doyle about building a business aviation companion app that gives every flight a reason, from AI-generated charter backstories to a full operator ecosystem. We also get honest about integrations, developer expectations, pricing pressure, and what it takes to keep immersion fun without turning it into a second job.
• Sean’s flight sim background from early Microsoft Flight Simulator to VATSIM
• The problem Jet Card solves for business jet flying in MSFS and X-Plane 12
• Procedurally generated charter demand paired with AI narratives and deadlines
• Co...


An A320 Captain’s Plan To Simplify Flight Simulation
06/23/2026

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We sit down with A320 captain and developer Katie Pilot to unpack EFBX, a new electronic flight bag platform designed to turn flight simulation into a clean, unified workflow. Along the way, we get the origin story, the frustrations that sparked the build, and the feature ideas that could make MSFS flying feel truly plug and play. 
• Katie’s unexpected path into aviation and what hooked her on flying 
• Why airline flying is structured and why coding scratches the creative itch 
• Running the EFB on phones and tablets over a local netwo...


FS Expo 2026 Debrief
06/22/2026

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FS Expo 2026 feels bigger, smoother, and more community-driven than ever, and we come away convinced the people are still the reason the whole hobby works. We break down what nailed it, what felt off, and what we hope changes before Vegas 2027. 
• venue wins: space, concessions, real food, easy flow 
• keynotes and pacing, plus why devs struggle with presenting 
• the “family reunion” effect and why community is the main draw 
• venue selection trade-offs: cost, flights, hotels, walkability, family activities 
• Vegas as a polarizing but practical destination 
• rotating cities vs locking one home ba...


Why FSExpo Feels Like A Reunion
06/08/2026

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We get hyped for Flight Sim Expo in St. Paul by talking about the gear, the announcements, and the part nobody can replicate online: meeting our people face to face. We also dig into how flight simulation supports real-world aviation training, where AI ATC fits today, and what still needs to change for the wider industry to take simmers seriously.
• why Flight Sim Expo feels like a yearly family reunion for a niche hobby
• what attendees actually get from the exhibit hall, speakers, tours, and meetups
• how FS Expo picks a city...


Atlanta Scenery Drama And A Phenom Obsession
06/01/2026

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We run through the biggest flight sim headlines after a brief break, from Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 Sim Update 5 to major add-on releases that change what flying feels like day to day. We also unpack a kernel-level DRM blowup around a new Atlanta scenery and talk about why mission-based flying and deeper aircraft “experience” design is where the hobby is headed. 
• Sim Update 5 scope and quality-of-life improvements 
• Aircraft Avionics Update 4 and bringing payware up to 2024 standards 
• GSX UI overhaul, improved stability, and in-sim hotfix workflow 
• New releases including the BO 105 helicopter and P...


Navigraph Survey Reality Check
04/27/2026

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We dig through the Navigraph Survey 2026 results and talk honestly about where flight simulation is growing and where it still feels stuck. We compare MSFS 2024 vs MSFS 2020 adoption, debate performance and hardware reality, and look at how AI ATC and new aircraft systems are reshaping what “realistic” means at home. 
• MSFS 2024 adoption trends and why some stay on 2020 
• Console growth and what it changes for add-ons and features 
• Biggest pain points: stability, default ATC, weather radar 
• Why simmers fly: immersion, mastery, real-world skill building 
• Hardware talk: GPU pricing, DX12 performance, D...


Put PMDG On Auto Bill Pay
04/13/2026

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We react to the PMDG 737-700 release for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 and the reality that many of us keep paying to upgrade aircraft we already know by heart. We also zoom out to the bigger flight sim add-on market, where competition shapes prices, trust, and what finally gets built for sim pilots. 
• PMDG 737-700 for MSFS 2024 impressions and what you actually get 
• upgrade pricing fatigue and the “utility bill” mindset 
• why PMDG stays the default choice for many Boeing simmers 
• how the Operations Center and consistent workflow influence buying 
• lack of ser...


How A Coast Guard Mission Generator Makes Flight Sim Feel Alive
03/30/2026

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We sit down with “Not Matt” from Miravia Softworks to talk about building a procedural mission generator for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 based on US Coast Guard operations. We dig into the aviation bug, the realities of shipping software, and why the best flight sim add-ons balance realism with fun. 

• catching the aviation bug early and why it becomes lifelong 
• building software with an MVP mindset to avoid feature creep 
• filtering community feedback without derailing the roadmap 
• designing procedural missions that stay immersive and replayable 
• partnering with the US Coast Guard and...


From Valdosta To Cabo With A Fancy Turboprop
03/16/2026

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We catch up on the latest heat in Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, from a standout Piaggio P180 to the sudden A340 buyer’s dilemma. We also get honest about how we plan routes, why long hauls feel rewarding, and how scenery and updates can make or break a sim night. 
• first impressions of the Flight FX Piaggio P180 Avanti II for MSFS 2024 
• building believable corporate routes using FlightAware and Flightradar24 
• why freeware airports on FlightSim.to change how we fly 
• the Aerosoft Toliss A340-600 versus iniBuilds A340-300 tradeoffs 
• long haul...


Q1 2026 Is Almost Through… Now What?
03/02/2026

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We weigh the X-Crafts recent ERJ 2.0 release, celebrate the Marwin's sharp HondaJet 2024 rebuild and consumer-friendly pricing, and pull apart Southwest’s pivot to hub-and-spoke. Spirit’s restructuring and a bold new 787-9 project round out a packed hour.

• ERJ family 2.0 strengths and weaknesses
• Marketing lead times versus delivery windows and buyer trust
• HJet 2024 rebuild highlights, mission fit, upgrade path and price
• Southwest’s route cuts, hub shift and traveler impact
• Spirit’s bankruptcy restructuring and premium seating pivot
• New 787-9 project goals, risks and what long-haulers want
• FS Expo t...


We Love The Pratt Whine, Not The Bus Seats
02/09/2026

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We unpack a big week in flight sim: a strong DFW release that finally does the hub justice, FS Labs’ surprise A321neo update with stellar sounds but a divisive cabin, and PMDG’s 737-900 that balances immersion and performance with a refined interior. We close with upcoming events and how communication shapes what we fly.


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CTP Live - New Year, Who Dis, 2025 Part 2?
CTP Live - New Year, Who Dis, 2025 Part 2? episode artwork
01/19/2026

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What does it really take to launch a study-level airliner? On this episode of The Closed Traffic Podcast, Colin from TFDi Design steps into the pattern to tell us all about the MD-11 release. We don't shy away from the details, discussing the nitty-gritty of upgrade pricing and value. Finally, we look ahead: What does a top-tier developer actually think about MSFS 2024 on console? Tune in for the answers.


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XP72 & LeoStixx Joins The Closed Traffic Podcast!
XP72 & LeoStixx Joins The Closed Traffic Podcast! episode artwork
12/22/2025

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Join us as we close out the year with a bang. Special and returning guest, XP72, as well as LeoStixx, join the Closed Traffic Podcast! We'll talk all things flight sim and even get into some real-world aviation content. Tune in!



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Are we cooked?
Are we cooked? episode artwork
11/10/2025

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After a long hiatus, the CTP crew return to the virtual flight deck for a new episode of the Closed Traffic Podcast. They catch up on life, and discuss the latest in aviation and flight simulation. The main focus is on a wave of new hardware, including the Honeycomb Foxtrot stick and Sierra TPM module, Moza's new force-feedback base and modular throttle quadrant, and the latest cockpit panels from WinWing. They also share their high praise for Black Square's recently released Baron and Bonanza and look ahead to the upcoming Flight Sim Expo.<...


Trimmed & Tested
Trimmed & Tested episode artwork
09/29/2025

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The CTP crew is back in the booth again for another episode! Join us as we touch on latest movements in the flightsim industry as well as latest hardware news in addition to thoughts of recently acquired hardware by the team.


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The Age of Force Feedback?
The Age of Force Feedback? episode artwork
09/02/2025

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Join us as we dive into the latest happenings going on in the flight sim industry. Join the CTP crew as we explore force feedback peripherals and their resurgence in the hobby.

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Citations and Airbus's
Citations and Airbus's episode artwork
07/28/2025

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Closed Traffic Podcast is back in session with another amazing episode. Charlie and Johnny opens up with FlightFX's latest release! Mike provides thoughts on Fenix's latest update! Don't miss this one!


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FSExpo and Boeing 727s
FSExpo and Boeing 727s episode artwork
07/15/2025

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Join CTP’s Johnny on a Monday evening chat as we touch on some recent presentations from this year’s FSEXpo. In addition, Johnny provides his thoughts on A2A’s latest release, the Aerostar 600 also Inibuilds Cessna Caravan II and much more!


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Fathers, Flyers, and Feature Creep
Fathers, Flyers, and Feature Creep episode artwork
06/16/2025

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What happens when you mix bored Dad's and flight simming? This show! Join the CTP crew on an impromptu Father's Day chat. Latest Bluebird Simulations news, Black Squares imminent Beechcraft Starship release and much more!


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Closed Traffic Podcast Welcomes Captain (Ret.) Ernest Obregon!
Closed Traffic Podcast Welcomes Captain (Ret.) Ernest Obregon! episode artwork
06/09/2025

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Closed Traffic Podcast is thrilled to welcome Captain Ernest Obregon. Ernie spent 35 years as a pilot with United, but his aviation career began well before that. Ernie has an impressive resume full of thrilling aviation experiences. Join us as he walks us through his incredible aviation career and how he keeps busy in retirement.


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Saturday Night Live (CTP Style!)
Saturday Night Live (CTP Style!) episode artwork
05/05/2025

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The CTP crew gathers together for Saturday night antics! Covering the latest PMDG release, Charlie's take on Chaseplane as well as Mike's thoughts on the upcoming A220. Don't miss this one!


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2025 the year for RJ's?
2025 the year for RJ's? episode artwork
#2
04/02/2025

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Aerosoft's CRJ just released. Is 2025 the year for RJ's? Does Mike finally finish his commute?


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The iniBuilds A350 Has Landed - Hot or Not?
The iniBuilds A350 Has Landed - Hot or Not? episode artwork
03/04/2025

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Well, ya know here at CTP we've got to provide our initial reactions and reviews on any major flight sim releases. Tune in for our thoughts on the latest, the long-awaited iniBuilds A350!

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Quick Chat!
Quick Chat! episode artwork
02/25/2025

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Back with a quick show! Are aviation incidents truly on the rise? Want to hear our thoughts on the upcoming iniBuilds A350? Where would you like to see FSExpo held in 2026 and beyond? Tune in for all that and much more.


Relevant Links:

https://www.pilotsnpaws.org/

https://www.angelflight.com/

https://flightsimexpo.com/

https://www.justflight.com/in-development

https://inibuilds.com/collections/aircraft

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What a January! 2025, We Need a Reset.
What a January! 2025, We Need a Reset. episode artwork
02/03/2025

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What a start to the year it's been. Lot's to catch up on and discuss today, tune in!


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It's Heating Up!
It's Heating Up! episode artwork
01/20/2025

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New year, new developments in the industry. Join the CTP crew as we dive into the first couple of weeks into the new year with the latest flightsim industry developments. Johnny breaks down his experience with Winwing's latest release. Charlie's CRJ gets a makeover? Remote controlled Black Hawks? Don't miss it!

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Welcome 2025!
Welcome 2025! episode artwork
01/06/2025

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CTP welcomes 2025 with an amazing chat! Covering everything from Winwing's latest announcement and much more!


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Closed Traffic Podcast w/ Patty Wagstaff
Closed Traffic Podcast w/ Patty Wagstaff episode artwork
12/27/2024

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#aviation #msfs #flightsim#aviation #msfs #flightsim #pattywagstaff #xplane #ctpsaiditThe CTP crew reconvenes for this compelling interview with Patty Wagstaff, the renowned aerobatic pilot, we delve into her inspiring journey from a young girl fascinated by flight to becoming a trailblazer in aviation. She also dives into her career choice and why she decided not to become an airline pilot. Interested in aerobatic and upset training? https://pattywagstaff.com/Youtube Channel: @pattywagstaff1789

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Happy Holidays! Just Chattin' w/ Airbus Captain Rob
Happy Holidays! Just Chattin' w/ Airbus Captain Rob episode artwork
12/25/2024

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Join us for our annual holiday show with Airbus Captain Rob and discuss the latest news on the FSLabs release!


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Happy Holidays! Just Chattin' w/ Airbus Captain Rob
Happy Holidays! Just Chattin' w/ Airbus Captain Rob episode artwork
12/21/2024

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Join us for our annual holiday show with Airbus Captain Rob!

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Microsoft, what have you done?
Microsoft, what have you done? episode artwork
12/09/2024

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The CTP crew is back, unpacking the recent events of Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024. Johnny and Charlie also cover latest releases, updates and opinions as we begin to finish out 2024.


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MFS2024 - 'Twas The Night Before & So Much More
MFS2024 - 'Twas The Night Before & So Much More episode artwork
11/19/2024

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Loads of conversations being had on the Eve of the MSFS 2024 release. Everything from Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 release expectations to recent releases and controversy amongst developers. Don't miss this one!


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PC-12 Driver & Flight Instructor Joins CTP!
PC-12 Driver & Flight Instructor Joins CTP! episode artwork
11/04/2024

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On this episode, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Neil, Vice President of the California RedTails, PC-12 Driver, and Flight Instructor, just to name a few. Neil walked us through his background, aviation journey, and the skills and perseverance he honed and are required to navigate this industry and even life in general.

Ya don't want to miss this one!

Also feel free to learn more about the California RedTails by reaching out to Mike or utilizing the link to the website below.

...


Extreme Flight Simulation Returns to the Closed Traffic Podcast!
Extreme Flight Simulation Returns to the Closed Traffic Podcast! episode artwork
10/21/2024

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Mike and the crew return to discuss their new venture, Bringing flight simulators to Hotel Polaris @ The Air Force Academy!


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Crew Room Chat | Fatigued to the MAX?
Crew Room Chat | Fatigued to the MAX? episode artwork
10/14/2024

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Join us in the crew room as we discuss the iFly's latest upcoming release. The Boeing 737-8 MAX!Closed Traffic Podcast: ⁠https://www.closedtrafficpodcast.comInstagram @closed_trafficX @closedtrafficJoin us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/closedtraffic

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