Black cockpit or missing instruments in FSX and Prepar3D

Start with an aircraft supplied with the simulator, then load the add-on in a new scenario. Note whether the issue affects the entire cockpit, a few displays or one livery.

Check what the package includes

The page identifies its cockpit type. A model without a virtual cockpit does not gain a 3D interior by changing views. Some aircraft offer a 2D panel or particular views; follow their manual.

For black displays, check electrical power, avionics and brightness using the aircraft’s procedures. An aircraft loaded cold and dark can have working instruments that are simply switched off.

Check the Prepar3D version

Prepar3D v4 and later use a 64-bit application. Older 32-bit DLLs compiled for FSX or previous Prepar3D versions cannot load in it. Copying them does not convert them. See the official Prepar3D documentation.

Use an explicitly compatible edition. If the problem remains, repair or reinstall with the supplied method after saving customisations. Avoid replacing panel.cfg, instruments or shared libraries at random.

When requesting help, include the page, simulator version and a screenshot identifying the affected instruments.