Navigating the Skies with AI: A Look at Say Intentions and Beyond ATC in Microsoft Flight Simulator

Rob Miller
FlightSim
Published in
3 min readApr 13, 2024

Welcome to the dynamic and technologically advanced world of Microsoft Flight Simulator, where artificial intelligence (AI) continues to redefine how we experience flight simulation. Today, we’re diving into two groundbreaking AI-driven software options currently making waves in the flight sim community: Say Intentions and Beyond ATC. Both tools aim to enhance your in-flight communication experience, but they do so in uniquely different ways. Let’s explore what each software offers and how they compare.

Exploring Say Intentions: Dynamic AI at Your Command

Say Intentions stands out with its robust use of open GPT technology, offering a true dynamic AI experience. This feature allows the software to process the information pilots provide in real-time. It’s like having a conversation with AI, reflecting a more realistic interaction with air traffic control (ATC). However, this sophistication comes with a small delay — typically around 8 to 10 seconds — due to the time required to process data over the internet.

Here’s what sets Say Intentions apart:

  • Dynamic AI Processing: Utilizes advanced AI to interpret and respond to pilot input flexibly.
  • Integration with Navigraph: Seamlessly incorporates Navigraph data for enhanced navigation and planning.
  • Interaction with Community: Hear and interact with other simulated pilots, adding a layer of realism and community engagement.

Discovering Beyond ATC: Ultra-realistic AI Voices

In contrast, Beyond ATC focuses on delivering an ultra-realistic auditory experience. The software features exceptionally realistic AI voices that bring the simulated ATC communications to life. Unlike Say Intentions, Beyond ATC uses pre-programmed responses, which ensures faster processing without the delays associated with AI interpretation.

Here’s what makes Beyond ATC shine:

  • Ultra-realistic Voices: High-quality, realistic audio that enhances the immersive experience.
  • Efficient Communication: Engineered for quicker response times by using predefined dialogue options.
  • Wide-ranging Compatibility: Supports both IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) and VFR (Visual Flight Rules), and is compatible with complete SimBrief integration.

Pricing and Accessibility

Both systems offer different pricing models, which may influence a user’s choice based on their needs and how frequently they use flight simulation software.

  • Say Intentions: Operates on a credit system, which may be ideal for users who prefer a pay-as-you-go approach to manage costs effectively.
  • Beyond ATC: Offers a subscription model at $30 monthly or a reduced annual fee of $200. Additionally, users can purchase enhanced voices and other premium features.

Choosing What’s Best for You

Deciding between Say Intentions and Beyond ATC depends on what aspects of flight simulation are most important to you:

  • If realism in ATC interactions and the ability to handle dynamic, unpredictable scenarios is your priority, Say Intentions might be the right choice.
  • If you value crystal-clear communication, faster response times, and a more controlled environment, Beyond ATC could be the way to go.

Flight simulation enthusiasts now have powerful tools at their fingertips to tailor their flying experience more closely to real-world piloting. Whether you lean towards the AI-driven flexibility of Say Intentions or the crisp and quick interactions of Beyond ATC, the skies of Microsoft Flight Simulator have never been so inviting or realistic.

Feel free to share your experiences or thoughts on these tools in the comments below and let’s discuss which software best suits your flight sim needs. Until next time, clear skies and happy flying!

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Rob Miller
FlightSim

Exploring the digital frontier, I delve into the exciting world of making money online and uncover the wonders of artificial intelligence. Join this journey.