FG Time Sync: Mastering Clock Synchronization in FlightGear Clock synchronization is critical for flight simulation. In FlightGear, standard time syncing can sometimes lag or mismatch real-world time due to frame rate drops or system pauses. FG Time Sync is a dedicated tool and configuration method designed to keep FlightGear’s in-game clock perfectly aligned with your local system time or Coordinated Universal Time (UTC).
This guide covers how time synchronization works in FlightGear and how to implement it effectively. Why Time Sync Matters
Real-Time Navigation: Simplifies cross-country flight planning using real-world charts and schedules.
Live Weather Integration: Aligns atmospheric conditions with actual real-world METAR data updates.
Multiplayer Consistency: Ensures all pilots on a network experience the exact same time of day and lighting conditions.
Logbook Accuracy: Records precise departure and arrival times for virtual airline operations. How to Enable Time Synchronization
You can synchronize time in FlightGear using built-in command-line switches or by modifying your configuration files. 1. Command-Line Options
Add the following arguments to your FlightGear launcher settings or startup script:
–time-match-local: Syncs the simulator directly to your computer’s current local time.
–time-match-utc: Syncs the simulator to current UTC, regardless of your local time zone.
–real-time: Forces the simulator clock to advance at exactly one second per real-world second. 2. Using the fgrun Preferences Open the FlightGear Launch Control. Navigate to the Environment or Time settings page. Select Match Local Time or Match UTC. Check the box for Real-Time Execution. Advanced Synchronization via Property Tree
For advanced users and cockpit builders, FlightGear exposes time variables through its internal property tree. You can monitor and manipulate these values via nasal scripting or external network packets: /sim/time/warp: Controls the time offset in seconds.
/sim/time/utc/: Contains sub-properties for current UTC year, month, day, hour, and minute.
/sim/time/real-time-rate: Defines the speed multiplier of the simulation clock.
By utilizing these tools and settings, your FlightGear environment will stay perfectly accurate, ensuring a highly realistic and predictable simulation experience.
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