FSX Gold Edition Activation Error

I have the same problem, can install the Deluxe Edition but get an error when I try to activate. I found that are two updates to FSX, SP1 and SP2. SP1 does not fix the activation problem and SP2 will not allow me to even start FSX without an error. Backed
out SP2 in order to start FSX.

I've tried all methods but method 3 on that forum and no luck.

Hi there Ryan welcome to the community forum! Christopher here, an Xbox fan just like you and has been on Xbox for years already. I would really love to make your day by helping you out. Take a look at this post! https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/topic/fligh...

Hello, Rudy SALTZMANN

Welcome to Microsoft Community.

The FSX Gold Edition is the newer version as it includes the Deluxe Edition and the Acceleration expansion pack.

The activation process can sometimes be tricky, especially on newer operating systems like Windows 11. First, run FSX in compatibility mode for an earlier version of Windows, such as Windows Vista or Windows 7. If you encounter issues with the Acceleration disk not prompting for a key, you may need to edit the registry or use the FSX Software Licensing System Reset Tool. Ensure that FSX is properly installed and activated before attempting to activate the Acceleration pack. Detailed steps can be found here:

Troubleshooting Installation Issues With FSX Deluxe On Windows 11 After System Crash - Flight Simulator X (General) | Flight Sim Q&A Forum (flyawaysimulation.com)

FSX + Acceleration error code 1-80004005 - Microsoft Community

If you are still encountering difficulties, it may be worth considering upgrading to a more recent flight simulator platform such as Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 or X-Plane 12. These platforms have been developed with modern systems in mind and provide a remarkable level of realism and expansive environments.

Yuhao Li

Microsoft Community Technical Support

I installed it with my owned copy of FSX Gold Edition DVD. (I bought it on amazon a few years back)