> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.canadava.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Swift

> Set up Swift pilot client for multi-simulator VATSIM connectivity - supporting MSFS, X-Plane, Prepar3D, and FSX

Swift is a **multi-simulator VATSIM pilot client** that supports Microsoft Flight Simulator (2020 and 2024), X-Plane 11 and 12, Prepar3D, and FSX. It is the most versatile client available, making it the go-to choice for pilots who fly across multiple simulator platforms or who use Prepar3D or FSX.

## When to Use Swift

If you only use one simulator, the dedicated client for that platform is typically easier to set up and use. Swift is best suited for pilots who need broader compatibility.

| Feature              | vPilot     | xPilot              | Swift                      |
| -------------------- | ---------- | ------------------- | -------------------------- |
| **Simulators**       | MSFS only  | X-Plane only        | MSFS, X-Plane, P3D, FSX    |
| **Platform**         | Windows    | Windows, Mac, Linux | Windows, Mac, Linux        |
| **Setup complexity** | Simple     | Moderate            | Advanced                   |
| **Model matching**   | VMR files  | CSL packages        | Automatic model matching   |
| **Best for**         | MSFS users | X-Plane users       | Multi-sim or P3D/FSX users |

<Note>
  Swift is more complex to configure than vPilot or xPilot. If you only use one simulator, the dedicated client for that platform is usually the easier option. Swift is recommended when you need multi-simulator support or when you fly on Prepar3D or FSX, where no other dedicated VATSIM client is available.
</Note>

## System Requirements

* **Operating System:** Windows 10/11, macOS 11 (Big Sur) or later, or a modern Linux distribution
* **Simulator:** MSFS 2020/2024, X-Plane 11/12, Prepar3D (v4 or v5), or FSX
* **Microphone:** Required for voice communication
* **Internet connection:** Stable broadband recommended

## Installation and Setup

<Steps>
  <Step title="Download Swift">
    Visit [swift-project.org](https://swift-project.org) and download the latest stable release for your operating system.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Install the application and simulator plugins">
    Run the installer. Swift installs the main application along with plugins for each simulator it detects on your system. If your simulator is installed in a non-standard location, you may need to point the installer to the correct path.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Run the Swift Wizard">
    On first launch, Swift opens its **configuration wizard**. This walks you through each step of the initial setup, including simulator detection, VATSIM credentials, model sets, and audio configuration.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Enter your VATSIM credentials">
    Enter your **VATSIM CID** and password in the credentials section. These are the same credentials you use on the VATSIM website.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Configure simulator connection">
    Select the simulator you want to connect to. Swift will attempt to auto-detect installed simulators, but you can manually configure the connection if needed. For MSFS, Swift uses SimConnect. For X-Plane, it uses its plugin. For P3D and FSX, it uses their respective SimConnect interfaces.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Set up model sets">
    Swift handles model matching **automatically** using its built-in model set system. During the wizard, Swift will prompt you to download and install the appropriate model sets for your simulator. Follow the prompts and let Swift manage the download and configuration.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Configure audio">
    Select your **input device** (microphone) and **output device** (headset or speakers). Test your microphone to verify the audio level indicator responds. Assign your **push-to-talk key**. See the [Audio Setup](/vatsim/software/audio-setup) page for detailed guidance.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Connect to VATSIM">
    Launch your simulator and load into an aircraft at a gate or parking position. In Swift, enter your **callsign** and aircraft type, then click **Connect**.
  </Step>
</Steps>

<Tip>
  Swift automatically manages model matching, so you do not need to manually configure CSL or VMR files. The wizard downloads and organizes model sets for you during initial setup.
</Tip>

## Key Features

* **Multi-simulator support** - Switch between simulators without changing your pilot client
* **Automatic model matching** - Swift downloads and manages model sets, removing the manual configuration required by vPilot and xPilot
* **Cross-platform** - Runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux
* **Prepar3D and FSX support** - The only actively maintained VATSIM client that supports these legacy simulators

## Troubleshooting

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Swift does not detect my simulator">
    If Swift cannot find your simulator during setup, verify that the simulator is installed and has been launched at least once. For non-standard installation paths, use Swift's settings to manually point to the simulator's installation directory. Ensure that the simulator's SimConnect component (for MSFS, P3D, or FSX) is properly installed.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Model sets failed to download">
    Check your internet connection and try again. If downloads repeatedly fail, visit the Swift forums or Discord for alternative download links. Make sure your firewall is not blocking Swift's network access.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Other aircraft not appearing">
    Verify that model sets were successfully installed by checking the model set status in Swift's settings. If model sets show zero entries, rerun the model set wizard. Make sure you selected the correct simulator when configuring model sets.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Audio problems">
    The same audio troubleshooting steps apply as with other clients. Verify your input and output devices are correctly selected, test your push-to-talk key, and check system-level audio settings. On macOS, confirm that Swift has microphone permissions. See the [Audio Setup](/vatsim/software/audio-setup) page for detailed steps.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Connection issues or crashes">
    Make sure you are running the latest version of Swift. Older versions may have compatibility issues with current VATSIM servers. Check the Swift project website for known issues and updates. If Swift crashes on launch, try running it as administrator on Windows.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="SimConnect errors with MSFS">
    If Swift reports SimConnect errors when connecting to MSFS, verify that MSFS is fully loaded and that you are at an airport (not on the loading screen). Reinstalling Swift can sometimes resolve SimConnect registration issues.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>