Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 now features Halo’s D77-TC Pelican dropship in celebration of the Halo franchise’s 25th anniversary, allowing players across Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5 and PC to fly the iconic ship for a limited time without cost. The free trial runs from 10 November until 17 November 2026 through the game’s in-built marketplace.
The Pelican’s inclusion coincides with ongoing Xbox 25th anniversary festivities recognising the original Halo launch title. After the trial period ends, players who want permanent access to the Pelican will need to purchase it from the in-game store for $9.99.
How to Access the Pelican Trial in Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024
Players can find the Pelican available in Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024’s marketplace via a prominent banner on the main menu, or by searching ‘Pelican’ in the full catalogue section. Clicking the green ‘Get for Free’ button while the trial is active adds the Pelican to the aircraft selection menu, labelled as ‘Misriah Armory D77-TC Pelican’ with a ‘New’ tag.
Designed with a detailed interior and inspired by the Halo series, the Pelican features twelve selectable liveries and a flight model that includes drone and jet propulsion modes. Controls on an Xbox controller involve holding A to initiate vertical takeoff and using the left stick and triggers for flight manoeuvres.
Trial Expiry and Purchase Details
Following the week-long trial, the Pelican will no longer be accessible unless purchased. The $9.99 price point for the permanent add-on will be available within the same marketplace. This marks a return for the Pelican, which was previously introduced in Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 and is now making its reappearance in the latest edition.
Microsoft Flight Simulator’s support for Xbox Cloud Gaming alongside availability on Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and Windows PC makes this crossover accessible to a broad audience. The Pelican offers a distinct flying experience compared to more conventional aircraft within the simulation, adding a unique dimension for players interested in Halo-related content.
The limited free access period highlights an ongoing partnership between Xbox Game Studios and Asobo Studio to integrate recognised Xbox IP into Microsoft Flight Simulator, reflecting both Xbox’s hardware heritage and its iconic software catalogue.
The Pelican trial will end on 17 November 2026 and the paid version will be available for purchase immediately after on all platforms where Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 is supported.
