Just as it is in the real world, Las Vegas is a popular destination in the virtual world. One of our most detailed and active cities, it features a number of custom animations, including a fountain and a volcano, and more recognizable landmarks than just about any other location on Flight Simulator's earth. From the beam of light at the luxury, to the terrifying clown in front of an unnamed casino at the other end of the Strip, anyone who has been to Las Vegas will recognize it immediately.

For those who don't know, it's also a great place to see fireworks - unlike some major cities in Flight Sim, Vegas has a show every single night starting at 10:00 PM local.

Las Vegas is served most closely by McCarran International airport (KLAS), located just one mile from downtown. George Crockett (a descendant of legendary "baar-killer" Davey), first established what he called Alamo airport on the site in 1942. The airport was purchased by Clark county in 1948, and renamed McCarran in honor of Nevada Senator Pat McCarran, one of the original founders of the Civil Aeronautics board. Like the city itself, the airport has grown considerably over the years, and now serves well over 30 million passengers a year, with nearly 1,000 "airport operations" (takeoffs and landings) per day. In Flight Simulator X, at 100% traffic settings, McCarran sees 1,348 operations per day - so before you crank all those sliders to the right, bear in mind that you might be making it even more real than "As Real As It Gets." Really! 

In addition to commercial, corporate, and general aviation traffic, McCarran is also home to EG&G Airlift, who operate the "Janet" flights between Las Vegas and a number of military facilities, including the legendary Area 51. For a closer look at these operations, try your hand at the "Secret Shuttle" mission - and be sure to keep your eyes open!