From Chris Roberts Gamescom press event that was broadcasted live. This is some of what to expect the next 2 patches. Subject to change and more to be revealed at the event Friday.

0.9 Patch (Aug 28th)
Astroid Hangar
Key bindings
Remodeled Hangars
M50 Flyable
2 New Game modes
Friend invites
6DOF

1.0 (est 2 months)
Full lobby and org vs org battles
Redesigned HUD and energy management system
FPS SQ42 ground mission (in an asteroid hangar)

6DOF, Friend invites and a full lobby system supporting Org vs Org will make all the difference in the world and hopefully set the standard moving forward.

no idris or any other big ship in hanger/pad :(

guess we will have to live with this for now

We'll as long as it comes out on time we will be able to do multiplayer swarm soon and learn the new flight setup of 6DOF and at least bind keys. Can't wait to try out some racing with the 350 or M50.

350R should also be fly able in 0.9
Key bindings have been pushed back to 1.0 (disappointed)
But they got leaderboards now in 0.9 (a waste)

I am specifically waiting to actually log hours beyond the survival wave in order to check out flight and game mechanics. They have a long long long way to go to have a playable title at the level of promise that is still going on.

My biggest issue is the bandwidth that the FPS element is taking away from the core game mechanics. But watcha gonna do when the mad man wants what he wants.

I just want to play coop or with a private party. Start working on some flying tactics and patterns!

The FPS element adds a nice touch though being able to board and fight. Honestly though with their current strategy on death who's crazy enough to jump into a FPS fight, besides Donk with the chance for permanent death. I know you get all your stuff back, but you do lose reputation and any character achievements.

well its late
looks like its going to be end of next week
"updates in the coming week on the status of the release"

https://robertsspaceindustries.com/comm-link/transmission/14111-Arena-Commander-V9-Status-Update

When they give a date has it ever been on time?

Not once.