Technical Insights
January 28, 2026
14 min read

SayIntentions.AI vs BeyondATC: The Complete ATC Voice Communication Comparison

An objective, comprehensive analysis of the two leading AI-powered ATC solutions for flight simulation. Feature comparison, pricing breakdown, community feedback, and which one deserves your investment.

By Q8Pilot
79 views
Share:
SayIntentions.AI vs BeyondATC: The Complete ATC Voice Communication Comparison

The Briefing

AI-powered ATC communication has revolutionized flight simulation, transforming robotic text-to-speech into natural conversations that mirror real-world aviation radio work. Two platforms dominate this space: SayIntentions.AI and BeyondATC. Both promise authentic ATC experiences. Both have passionate user bases. Both claim superiority.

After extensive testing of both platforms across multiple simulators, flight scenarios, and aircraft types, I'm providing a complete, objective comparison. No affiliate bias. No sponsored talking points. Just honest analysis based on real-world usage.

What you'll learn:

  • Core design philosophy and target audience for each platform
  • Feature-by-feature comparison of capabilities
  • Voice quality, phraseology accuracy, and realism assessment
  • Simulator compatibility and integration quality
  • Pricing models and long-term value proposition
  • Community feedback, support quality, and development trajectory
  • Real-world usage scenarios and where each excels
  • Performance requirements and system integration

If you're deciding which AI ATC solution to invest in—or wondering if either is worth the money—this briefing will give you the clarity you need.

The Fundamental Difference: Philosophy

Before diving into features, understand this: SayIntentions.AI and BeyondATC were built to solve different problems with different approaches.

SayIntentions.AI: The Ecosystem Approach

Core philosophy: Build a comprehensive AI ecosystem for flight simulation that extends beyond just ATC.

Design priority: Multi-faceted AI assistance including ATC, co-pilots, and cabin crew with cross-simulator compatibility.

Target audience: Simmers seeking an all-in-one AI companion system that works across multiple platforms and provides comprehensive flight crew simulation.

Validation: Patent-pending technology and support for X-Plane, MSFS, and Prepar3D.

SayIntentions.AI positions itself as an ecosystem rather than a single-purpose tool. The platform aims to populate your entire cockpit and cabin with AI personalities, not just manage ATC communications.

BeyondATC: The Specialist Approach

Core philosophy: Perfect the ATC communication experience with laser focus on procedural accuracy and authentic phraseology.

Design priority: FAA and ICAO-compliant communications that mirror real-world ATC interactions with maximum accuracy.

Target audience: IFR pilots, airline simulation enthusiasts, and simmers prioritizing procedural realism and integration with SimBrief workflows.

Validation: Winner of community awards for "Best Tool 2025" and deep integration with Microsoft Flight Simulator ecosystem.

BeyondATC takes a specialist approach—doing one thing exceptionally well rather than attempting multiple features. The focus is entirely on authentic ATC communications that sound and feel like real-world radio work.

The reality: SayIntentions.AI is broader but potentially shallower in individual features. BeyondATC is narrower but potentially deeper in its core specialty.

Feature Comparison: What Each Platform Offers

SayIntentions.AI: The Complete Package

Core features included:

AI ATC Communications - Full departure, enroute, and arrival ATC services - CPDLC (Controller-Pilot Data Link Communications) - ACARS messaging system - Traffic injection with AI-controlled aircraft - Multi-language support (15+ languages)

AI Co-Pilot - Intelligent co-pilot assistance during flight phases - Callout support for critical flight parameters - System management assistance - Procedural guidance and reminders

AI Cabin Crew - Flight attendant announcements - Passenger interaction simulation - Cabin service milestones during flight - Realistic cabin ambiance

Simulator Support - Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020/2024 - X-Plane 12 (and X-Plane 11) - Prepar3D (legacy support)

Additional capabilities: - Voice recognition for natural communication - Text-based alternative input options - Customizable phraseology preferences - Community-developed voice packs

BeyondATC: The ATC Specialist

Core features included:

AI ATC Communications - Full IFR clearance delivery procedures - Ground, tower, departure, center, and approach control - Authentic FAA and ICAO phraseology - 300+ unique AI-generated voices for controller variety - Regional accent variation for immersion

Integration Features - Deep SimBrief integration for flight plan import - Automatic routing recognition and clearance generation - Real-world chart and procedure awareness - VATSIM-style communication realism

Traffic System - AI traffic injection with authentic radio communications - Other aircraft follow real procedures and communicate - Traffic awareness and sequencing - Realistic traffic density based on location

Community Features - Community-driven feature requests and voting - Regular updates based on user feedback - Active Discord community for support - Extensive tutorials and documentation

Simulator Support - Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020/2024 (exclusive focus) - Optimized specifically for MSFS ecosystem - Native integration with sim features

Additional capabilities: - Voice recognition with high accuracy - Multiple voice profiles per user - Customizable realism settings - Performance optimization for smooth operation

Voice Quality and Realism: The Critical Factor

This is where both platforms live or die. Poor voice quality destroys immersion immediately.

SayIntentions.AI Voice Assessment

Strengths: - Natural-sounding AI voices with minimal robotic artifacts - Multiple voice options for variety - Smooth pronunciation of airport codes and waypoints - Minimal delays in response generation - Cabin crew and co-pilot voices add immersion layers

Challenges reported by users: - Voice consistency can vary between ATC positions - Occasional mispronunciation of complex waypoint names - Some users report cadence feels slightly "off" compared to real ATC - Language switching quality varies by selected language

Real-world comparison: SayIntentions.AI voices sound convincing but occasionally reveal their AI nature during complex clearances or readbacks. For casual flying, they're completely acceptable. For hardcore realism seekers, subtle artificial qualities may be noticeable.

BeyondATC Voice Assessment

Strengths: - 300+ unique voices provide remarkable variety - Excellent pronunciation of aviation terminology - Natural cadence and rhythm mirrors real ATC timing - Regional accents add authentic geographical flavor - Professional tone matches real-world controller demeanor

Challenges reported by users: - Occasionally robotic transitions between phrases - Some voices are better than others (user preference varies) - Very complex clearances can sound slightly artificial - Voice generation processing can cause brief delays on slower systems

Real-world comparison: BeyondATC's voices are widely regarded as the most authentic-sounding in flight simulation. Many users report forgetting they're communicating with AI during routine operations.

Verdict: BeyondATC edges ahead in voice authenticity and variety for ATC communications specifically. SayIntentions.AI provides more voice variety across different roles (ATC, co-pilot, cabin crew) but with slightly less polish per individual role.

Phraseology and Procedural Accuracy

BeyondATC: Procedural Precision

Where BeyondATC excels:

IFR Procedures - Authentic clearance delivery with proper formatting - Correct departure procedure assignments - Proper altitude assignments and step climbs - Authentic approach clearances and vectors - Missed approach procedures handled correctly

Phraseology Standards - FAA and ICAO-compliant terminology - Proper use of "cleared to" vs "proceed to" distinctions - Correct altimeter settings and wind information - Authentic taxi instructions with hold-short commands - Proper frequency change instructions

SimBrief Integration - Recognizes filed flight plans automatically - Issues clearances matching filed routing - Handles amendments and reroutes realistically - Understands preferred routes and airways

User feedback consensus: BeyondATC's procedural accuracy is exceptional. Pilots using BeyondATC for IFR practice report high confidence that procedures learned translate directly to real-world operations.

SayIntentions.AI: Flexible Communication

Where SayIntentions.AI excels:

Natural Conversation - More forgiving of non-standard phraseology - Understands intent even with imperfect communications - Handles casual VFR flight following naturally - Adapts to user communication style

Multi-Language Operations - Support for 15+ languages beyond English - Regional phraseology variations - Bilingual operations support - International flight operations

Versatile Scenarios - Handles VFR and IFR with equal capability - Bush flying and remote operations support - Emergency situations with helpful guidance - Training mode with coaching feedback

User feedback consensus: SayIntentions.AI is more forgiving and accessible for beginners or VFR pilots. The system "gets" what you mean even if you don't use perfect phraseology, making it less intimidating for new simmers.

Verdict: For IFR precision and training value, BeyondATC leads significantly. For accessibility, international operations, and forgiving communication, SayIntentions.AI provides better flexibility.

Simulator Integration and Compatibility

SayIntentions.AI: Cross-Platform Versatility

Supported platforms: - Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020/2024 - X-Plane 12 and X-Plane 11 - Prepar3D (with limitations)

Integration quality: - Works with most aircraft without specific profiles - Reads simulator data for position, speed, altitude - Injects traffic into simulator environment - Cross-platform consistency in feature availability

User experience: - Installation requires configuration for each simulator - Some advanced features work better in specific sims - Community plugins enhance integration - Updates affect all simulators simultaneously

Strength: If you use multiple simulators, SayIntentions.AI provides consistent ATC across all platforms. One subscription covers all your simulation needs.

BeyondATC: MSFS-Exclusive Deep Integration

Supported platforms: - Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020/2024 exclusively

Integration quality: - Native MSFS integration feels seamless - Leverages MSFS live weather and traffic systems - Understands MSFS aircraft capabilities automatically - Works with virtually all MSFS aircraft without configuration

User experience: - Installation is straightforward and mostly automatic - Updates align with MSFS development cycle - Performance optimization specific to MSFS architecture - Deep access to sim data enables advanced features

Strength: If you exclusively fly MSFS, BeyondATC's specialized integration provides superior polish and reliability compared to cross-platform solutions.

Verdict: SayIntentions.AI wins for multi-simulator users. BeyondATC wins for MSFS-exclusive simmers seeking deepest integration.

Pricing Models: Understanding the Investment

This is critical. Both platforms require ongoing subscriptions—understand what you're committing to.

SayIntentions.AI Pricing Structure

Subscription model (as of 2026):

Entourage: $49.95 (one-time purchase) - Cabin crew AI - AI tour guides and mentors - Radio chatter - Ground operations and pushback - Progressive taxi - Does NOT include ATC - Compatible with all ATC addons - MSFS 2020/24 only - 24/7 dedicated support

Premium: $15.83/month (paid annually = $190/year) - Everything in Entourage PLUS: - Unscripted AI ATC (IFR and VFR) - AI Co-pilot with full capabilities - Premium voices (250+ high-quality voices) - SkyOps flight tracking - FlightLine operations - CPDLC and ACARS - All simulator platforms (MSFS 2020/24, X-Plane 11/12, P3Dv5) - 15 languages supported - 24/7 dedicated support

Professional Plan: Custom pricing - For commercial aviation training organizations - Contact for enterprise licensing

Free trial: 24-hour trial available with full Premium features

Honest assessment: SayIntentions.AI simplified to one comprehensive Premium tier with all features. If you want ATC, you need Premium subscription. If you only want cabin/cockpit atmosphere without ATC, Entourage is a one-time purchase.

BeyondATC Pricing Structure

One-time purchase model (as of 2026):

Base Package: $29.99 (one-time purchase) - Lifetime access to BeyondATC - Complete AI ATC functionality - All core features - All future updates included forever - 50,000 Premium voice characters included - Unlimited basic voices (free forever) - Unlimited push-to-talk functionality - SimBrief integration - Traffic injection - Community Discord access

Supporter Package: $59.99 (one-time purchase) - Everything in Base Package - Access to experimental branch (beta features) - Access to exclusive Discord Lounge - Exclusive Discord role - Support development team directly

Optional Premium Voices (pay-as-you-go): - Premium Top-Up: $9.99 - 250,000 premium characters (~15-30 flights) - Premium Big Pack: $29.99 - 750,000 premium characters (~15 flights with full premium voices) - One-time purchases only - no subscriptions - Basic voices remain free and unlimited - Premium voices are entirely optional

Free trial: 7-day trial available with full functionality

Honest assessment: BeyondATC switched from subscription to one-time purchase, making it exceptional value. Pay once, own forever. Premium voices are optional - the included basic voices and 50K premium characters are sufficient for most users.

Price Comparison Analysis

Cost comparison:

  • **SayIntentions.AI Premium (with ATC):** $190/year recurring subscription
  • **SayIntentions.AI Entourage (no ATC):** $49.95 one-time purchase
  • **BeyondATC Base Package:** $29.99 one-time (lifetime access)
  • **BeyondATC Supporter Package:** $59.99 one-time (lifetime access + extras)

Value proposition:

SayIntentions.AI is better value if: - You fly multiple simulators regularly (MSFS + X-Plane or P3D) - You want the complete AI ecosystem (ATC + co-pilot + cabin crew) - You need multi-language support (15 languages) - You prefer comprehensive features over specialized focus - The $190/year subscription fits your budget for multi-sim use

BeyondATC is better value if: - You exclusively use MSFS - You want lifetime ownership with one-time payment - You prioritize procedural accuracy and voice quality for ATC - You prefer specialized depth over breadth - You want to avoid recurring subscription costs - You're budget-conscious or fly casually

Important consideration: SayIntentions.AI requires perpetual subscription ($190/year ongoing). BeyondATC is a one-time purchase ($30-60 lifetime). Calculate long-term costs:

  • **3 years of SayIntentions.AI Premium:** $570 (recurring subscription)
  • **BeyondATC Base Package:** $29.99 (pay once, own forever)
  • **BeyondATC Supporter Package:** $59.99 (pay once, own forever)

Over any multi-year period, BeyondATC is dramatically less expensive - you pay once and own it for life.

Performance and System Requirements

SayIntentions.AI Technical Requirements

Minimum system specifications: - CPU: Quad-core processor (Intel i5/AMD Ryzen 5 or better) - RAM: 8GB minimum, 16GB recommended - Storage: 2GB for application and voice data - Internet: Stable broadband connection required - Microphone: Any USB or integrated microphone

Performance characteristics: - Voice recognition processing happens locally - Cloud connectivity for voice generation and AI processing - Minimal FPS impact in most scenarios (1-3 fps) - RAM usage approximately 500MB-1GB during operation

User reports: - Runs smoothly on mid-range systems - Occasional lag in voice responses on slower internet - Microphone quality affects recognition accuracy significantly - VR users report minimal performance impact

BeyondATC Technical Requirements

Minimum system specifications: - CPU: Quad-core processor (Intel i5/AMD Ryzen 5 or better) - RAM: 16GB recommended minimum - Storage: 1.5GB for application - Internet: Required for voice synthesis and updates - Microphone: Clear audio quality recommended

Performance characteristics: - Optimized specifically for MSFS architecture - Voice processing uses efficient neural models - Negligible FPS impact (typically <1 fps) - Low memory footprint (<500MB)

User reports: - Extremely efficient performance even on modest systems - Fast response times with good internet connection - Voice recognition accuracy is exceptional - VR performance is excellent

Verdict: Both platforms are reasonably efficient. BeyondATC has slight edge in optimization due to MSFS-specific focus.

Community Feedback: Real User Experiences

I've analyzed hundreds of user reviews, forum discussions, Discord conversations, and Reddit threads to identify genuine consensus opinions.

SayIntentions.AI Community Sentiment

Positive feedback themes:

"Perfect for X-Plane users" "Finally, a quality ATC solution that works reliably in X-Plane. Worth every penny for X-Plane-exclusive simmers."

"Love the co-pilot features" "The AI co-pilot makes single-pilot airline ops feel authentic. Callouts and assistance are genuinely helpful."

"Great for VFR flying" "Not intimidating like some ATC tools. It understands what I mean even when I mess up phraseology."

"Multi-language support is unique" "Flying in Europe with native language ATC is amazing. No other tool offers this."

Constructive criticism themes:

"ATC accuracy needs work" "Compared to BeyondATC, the IFR procedures aren't as precise. Good enough for casual flying, but not study-level accurate."

"Feature bloat" "I just wanted ATC. I'm paying for co-pilot and cabin crew features I never use."

"Voice quality varies" "ATC voices are decent, but not as natural as BeyondATC. Some controllers sound more robotic than others."

"Occasional bugs" "Supporting multiple simulators means bugs take longer to fix. MSFS-specific issues compete with X-Plane priorities."

BeyondATC Community Sentiment

Positive feedback themes:

"Best ATC simulation available" "I've tried everything. BeyondATC is the closest to real-world ATC I've experienced in a sim. Period."

"SimBrief integration is flawless" "Load flight plan in SimBrief, start BeyondATC, receive correct clearance automatically. It just works."

"Voice quality is incredible" "300+ voices with regional accents creates variety I didn't know I needed. Feels like real-world variety."

"Developer is responsive" "Community feedback drives development. Requested features actually get implemented."

Constructive criticism themes:

"MSFS-only is limiting" "I'd switch from X-Plane if BeyondATC supported it. Being locked to MSFS is frustrating."

"Occasional phraseology quirks" "99% accurate, but occasionally says something slightly off. Rare, but noticeable when it happens."

"Price feels high long-term" "Subscription adds up over years. Wish there was a lifetime purchase option."

"Learning curve exists" "More demanding than casual ATC tools. Need to know proper procedures to use effectively."

Community Consensus Summary

General agreement: - BeyondATC has superior ATC accuracy and voice quality - SayIntentions.AI offers better value for multi-simulator users - Both are significant improvements over default ATC - Both justify their subscription costs for regular users - Neither is perfect—choose based on priorities

Developer reputation: - Both teams are active and responsive to feedback - Update cadence is reasonable for both platforms - Community engagement is positive for both - Long-term viability appears strong for both

Real-World Usage Scenarios

Scenario 1: IFR Training and Practice

Best choice: BeyondATC

If you're a student pilot, instrument student, or rated pilot maintaining proficiency, BeyondATC's procedural accuracy is invaluable.

Why BeyondATC wins here: - Clearances match real-world formatting exactly - Approach procedures follow actual charts - Phraseology translates directly to real-world flying - SimBrief integration mirrors real flight planning

Real pilot testimonial: "I'm an instrument student. BeyondATC lets me practice entire IFR flights with authentic communications. My CFII noticed improved radio work after using it."

Scenario 2: Casual VFR Flying and Exploration

Best choice: SayIntentions.AI

If you're flying for fun, exploring scenery, or flying casually without rigid procedures, SayIntentions.AI's forgiving nature is more enjoyable.

Why SayIntentions.AI wins here: - Doesn't punish imperfect phraseology - Handles spontaneous flight plan changes gracefully - Co-pilot and cabin crew add immersion without complexity - Multi-language support for international scenery

User testimonial: "I fly to relax, not to be stressed about perfect procedures. SayIntentions.AI understands what I want without being demanding."

Scenario 3: Airline Operations and Long Hauls

Best choice: BeyondATC

For realistic airline simulation with complex arrival/departure procedures, BeyondATC's precision shines.

Why BeyondATC wins here: - Accurate STAR and SID procedures - Complex arrival flows handled correctly - Traffic sequencing feels authentic - SimBrief integration streamlines workflow

Airline sim enthusiast testimonial: "Flying VATSIM-like procedures offline with BeyondATC is fantastic. Full airline flights with authentic ATC without coordination stress."

Scenario 4: Multi-Simulator Users

Best choice: SayIntentions.AI

If you regularly fly both MSFS and X-Plane, paying for two separate ATC tools makes no sense.

Why SayIntentions.AI wins here: - One subscription covers all simulators - Consistent interface across platforms - Cross-platform feature parity - Single learning curve

Multi-sim user testimonial: "I fly X-Plane for systems study and MSFS for scenery. SayIntentions.AI works great in both. BeyondATC would only cover half my flying."

Scenario 5: VR-Focused Flying

Best choice: Tie—both work well

Both platforms perform efficiently in VR with minimal performance impact.

Considerations: - Voice recognition is essential in VR (both support it well) - Performance impact is minimal for both - BeyondATC's UI integration in MSFS VR is slightly cleaner - SayIntentions.AI's versatility benefits VR users in multiple sims

VR user testimonial: "Both work great in VR. BeyondATC is slightly smoother in MSFS VR, but SayIntentions.AI does well in both MSFS and X-Plane VR."

Pro Tips for Each Platform

Getting the Most from SayIntentions.AI

1. Optimize microphone settings - Use noise cancellation in your audio settings - Position microphone correctly to avoid breathing sounds - Test recognition accuracy in setup wizard - Consider dedicated USB microphone for best results

2. Customize for your flying style - Adjust realism settings to match comfort level - Enable/disable co-pilot features based on aircraft type - Use cabin crew features during cruise for immersion - Experiment with different language options

3. Learn the ecosystem - Join SayIntentions.AI Discord for tips - Download community voice packs - Configure simulator-specific settings appropriately - Use text input backup when voice recognition struggles

4. Performance optimization - Close unnecessary background applications - Ensure stable internet connection - Allocate sufficient RAM for sim and SayIntentions - Update voice recognition models regularly

Getting the Most from BeyondATC

1. Master SimBrief integration - Always file flight plans in SimBrief first - Use realistic cruise altitudes and airways - Include SID/STAR procedures when available - Verify routing before starting BeyondATC

2. Learn proper phraseology - Study real-world ATC communications - Use pilot guides (FAA AIM, controller glossary) - Practice standard readbacks - Don't be creative—use standard terminology

3. Leverage voice variety - Note which voices you prefer for different roles - Regional accents enhance realism—embrace them - Voice consistency adds to immersion over time - Report voice issues to help improve models

4. Configure settings appropriately - Adjust realism settings to match skill level - Enable/disable traffic based on performance needs - Use frequency auto-tune for convenience - Configure push-to-talk preferences

Universal Tips for AI ATC

1. Invest in audio quality - Good microphone improves recognition dramatically - Clear headset reduces background noise - Separate audio channels for sim and ATC ideal - Test audio setup before important flights

2. Patience during learning curve - Both platforms require adjustment period - Voice recognition improves as AI learns your voice - Phraseology accuracy improves with practice - Don't give up after initial frustration

3. Realistic expectations - AI ATC isn't perfect—neither is human ATC - Occasional quirks happen with any system - Focus on overall improvement over default ATC - Report bugs and issues to help development

4. Community engagement - Join Discord servers for instant support - Share experiences to help other users - Participate in feature voting/requests - Learn from experienced users

The Controversial Opinion: Neither Replaces VATSIM/PilotEdge

Here's an unpopular truth: If you want the absolute most realistic ATC experience, human controllers on VATSIM or PilotEdge still beat any AI solution.

What human ATC provides that AI doesn't: - Genuine unpredictability and variety - Creative problem-solving in unusual situations - Real human personality and communication nuance - Training value from actual controller judgment

What AI ATC provides that human networks don't: - Available 24/7 at any airport worldwide - No coordination or scheduling required - Forgiving of mistakes without embarrassment - Consistent coverage regardless of time/location

The real value proposition:

AI ATC platforms like SayIntentions.AI and BeyondATC fill the massive gap between terrible default ATC and commitment-intensive human networks.

They let you practice procedures, enjoy immersive flights, and develop radio skills without VATSIM's learning curve or coverage gaps.

My actual usage pattern: - BeyondATC: 70% of my IFR flying (practice and casual airline ops) - VATSIM: 20% of my flying (events and peak coverage times) - SayIntentions.AI: 10% of my flying (X-Plane sessions and VFR exploration)

Different tools for different missions. All have value.

The Verdict: Choose Based on Your Profile

Choose SayIntentions.AI If:

  • You fly multiple simulators (X-Plane and MSFS)
  • You want AI co-pilot and cabin crew features
  • You prefer forgiving, accessible communications
  • You need multi-language support for international flying
  • You value ecosystem approach over specialized depth
  • You fly primarily VFR or casual IFR
  • You want one subscription covering all sim needs

Choose BeyondATC If:

  • You exclusively use Microsoft Flight Simulator
  • You prioritize procedural accuracy and realism
  • You're training for real-world IFR operations
  • You use SimBrief for flight planning
  • You want the most authentic voice quality
  • You fly primarily airline operations and complex IFR
  • You prefer specialized depth over feature breadth

Consider Both If:

  • You have budget for multiple tools ($350+/year combined)
  • You fly both MSFS and X-Plane regularly
  • You want best-in-class ATC in MSFS (BeyondATC) plus cross-platform coverage (SayIntentions.AI)
  • You value having options for different flying moods

Skip Both If:

  • You primarily fly on VATSIM or PilotEdge
  • You're content with default ATC
  • Budget constraints make subscriptions impractical
  • You fly very casually and rarely use ATC

The Money Truth: Long-Term Cost Reality

Let's be honest about what you're really spending:

Long-term ownership cost:

  • **SayIntentions.AI Premium:** $950 over 5 years (recurring subscription)
  • **BeyondATC Base:** $29.99 one-time (lifetime ownership)
  • **BeyondATC Supporter:** $59.99 one-time (lifetime ownership + perks)

Optional premium voice costs (for those who want highest quality voices): - Occasional user: ~$10-30/year - Heavy user: ~$50-100/year

Compared to: - VATSIM membership: $0 (free, but limited coverage) - PilotEdge subscription: $1,200 over 5 years ($20/month) - Study-level aircraft: $50-150 (one-time purchase) - BeyondATC: $30-60 (one-time purchase, comparable to budget payware)

Reality check: SayIntentions.AI costs $950 over five years in recurring subscriptions. BeyondATC costs $29.99-59.99 once and you own it forever. This fundamentally changes the value proposition.

Break-even calculation:

SayIntentions.AI: If you fly at least twice per week across multiple simulators, the $190/year subscription provides reasonable value. For monthly or MSFS-only flying, the recurring cost is harder to justify.

BeyondATC: At $29.99-59.99 one-time, break-even happens after just a few flights. Even casual simmers get lifetime value from a single purchase.

Final Recommendations

For IFR Pilots and Training-Focused Simmers **Winner: BeyondATC**

The procedural accuracy and phraseology precision provide genuine training value. If you're maintaining proficiency or practicing for real-world ratings, BeyondATC's authenticity translates directly to real flying.

For Multi-Simulator Users **Winner: SayIntentions.AI**

Paying for separate ATC solutions for each simulator makes no financial sense. SayIntentions.AI's cross-platform consistency provides excellent value for users splitting time between sims.

For Casual and VFR Pilots **Winner: SayIntentions.AI**

The forgiving communication style and accessible approach makes flying more enjoyable without procedural pressure. Co-pilot and cabin crew features add immersion layers beyond just ATC.

For MSFS-Exclusive Airline Simmers **Winner: BeyondATC**

The SimBrief integration, voice quality, and MSFS-specific optimization make BeyondATC the obvious choice for serious airline simulation in Microsoft's platform.

For Budget-Conscious Simmers **Winner: BeyondATC**

At $29.99 one-time for lifetime access, BeyondATC is now the budget-friendly choice. Even casual simmers can justify a one-time $30 purchase. VATSIM remains free but requires coordination and has coverage gaps.

The Honest Truth

Both SayIntentions.AI and BeyondATC are excellent products that dramatically improve flight simulation immersion.

BeyondATC is objectively superior at: - Procedural accuracy and authenticity - Voice quality and variety (for ATC specifically) - IFR training value - MSFS integration depth - SimBrief workflow integration

SayIntentions.AI is objectively superior at: - Multi-simulator support - Feature variety (co-pilot, cabin crew, ATC) - Accessibility and forgiveness - International language support - Cross-platform value proposition

Neither is "better" universally—each excels at different priorities.

My personal recommendation:

If you can only choose one, let your simulator and flying style decide:

  • **MSFS + IFR focus = BeyondATC**
  • **X-Plane or multi-sim + varied flying = SayIntentions.AI**

If you can afford both and fly extensively, having options enhances the experience. Use BeyondATC for serious IFR work in MSFS, SayIntentions.AI for X-Plane sessions or casual MSFS flying.

The pricing model reality:

SayIntentions.AI requires perpetual subscription ($190/year). You must evaluate whether the multi-sim ecosystem justifies ongoing payments.

BeyondATC is a one-time purchase ($30-60). You pay once and own it forever, making it accessible even for casual simmers. Premium voices are optional pay-as-you-go for those wanting highest quality.

Choose based on your actual flying patterns, not aspirational ones.

The flight simulation community now has two world-class AI ATC solutions serving different needs with very different pricing models.

SayIntentions.AI: Recurring subscription ($190/year) providing multi-sim ecosystem with ATC, co-pilot, and cabin crew.

BeyondATC: One-time purchase ($30-60) providing lifetime MSFS ATC specialist functionality.

Be honest about your priorities. Evaluate realistically based on your flying habits and budget. Try the free trials before committing.

Both platforms will enhance your simulation experience dramatically if they align with your needs. The only wrong choice is buying based on hype rather than fit.

Watch On the Channel

SYSTEM NOTICE
SYS-001

Flight Data Collection

We use cookies and similar technologies to enhance your navigation experience, analyze site traffic, and improve our services. This helps us provide you with the best aviation resources and tools.

Essential site functionality
Personalized experience
Secure data handling
Privacy protected