How To Fly In Google Earth

By: Louis Varca

Break Studios Contributing Writer

Google Earth is a stunning program, and learning how to fly in Google Earth makes it even more impressive. Learning to fly in Google Earth will enable you to use the flight simulator mode built into Google Earth. Using the flight simulator mode in Google Earth, you will be able to pilot a virtual plane over the entire visible planet in Google Earth. Flying in Google Earth is a great experience as it will enable you to enjoy all the sights from the air and even take off and land at different airports around the world. Realistic texture layers in Google Earth can even simulate real weather conditions when flying in Google Earth.

  1. Open Google Earth. Use the Google Earth icon or shortcut to launch Google Earth on your computer.
  2. Pick a starting destination. Use the search box on the left to find a destination to start from. Press enter and allow Google Earth to navigate to that destination.
  3. Launch flight mode. Launch flight mode in Google Earth by pressing "ctrl+alt+a" on your keyboard. Flight mode will automatically launch.
  4. Select a plane. Google Earth's flight mode will now ask you for a type of plane. Select the type of plane you would like to fly.
  5. Start flying. Fly in Google Earth by controlling your plane with the arrow keys on your keyboard. Utilize the up and down keys to control height and the left and right arrow keys to change direction.
  6. Exit flight mode. Exit flight mode in Google Earth by navigating to the "File" menu and then selecting "End" when you are finished with flying in Google Earth.

To experience more conditions in Google Earth, try turning on more layers on the left hand side. Visit different airports when flying in Google Earth for some great views.

Posted on: Aug. 08, 2010