Google has launched a free, browser-based flight simulator integrated into Google Earth, accessible directly in web browsers like Chrome and Safari.

The feature traces back to a hidden Google Earth option from 2007; the current web version is free to play and controlled with keyboard inputs.

Users can enjoy the desktop flight simulator in a browser without any downloads or installations, as part of the web-version upgrades.

Initial social-media reactions are mixed, with some praising the feature and others noting challenging controls or occasional crashes.

The piece cites USA TODAY reporter Mike Snider as the author and provides his contact information.

A promotional video announcing the feature drew more than 5.5 million views, signaling strong online interest.

The article highlights a community element where users share triumphs and mishaps in navigating the digital Earth, and points readers to Google’s site for guidance and resources.

For best results, set the basemap to Satellite for photorealism and choose an interesting real-world locale rather than an empty ocean area.

The flight simulator was unveiled on X (formerly Twitter) on June 12, 2026, as part of Google Earth’s web-version updates.

Google provides a help page detailing keyboard and mouse controls for piloting the aircraft.

The article notes tech reporter Andrew Liszewski and directs readers to follow related topics on the author’s homepage.

Google frames this as part of broader web-version enhancements for Google Earth, including improved elevation profiles and support for additional import types.