Adding in that the release of the new MS FS seems to have gone so spectacularly badly (there is even one of the Hitler parody videos of him trying to log on) perhaps now is the time for nice steady progress by Laminar?

NEWS! - AOA Simulations updates both the T-7A Red Hawk and T-6A Texan II     AOA (Angle of Attack) Simulations have done a simultaneous update for both the T-7A Red Hawk and T-6A Texan ll. These are not big updates per se, and mostly released to convert both aircraft to the latest SASL plugin version to v3.17.3.   T-7 Red Hawk The Boeing/Saab T-7 Red Hawk, originally known as the Boeing T-X, is an American/Swedish advanced jet trainer developed by Boeing Defense, Space & Security in partnership with Saab Group. It was selected on 27 September 2018 by the United States Air Force (USAF) as the winner of the T-X program to replace the Northrop T-38 Talon.   There is no version number for the T-7A, it is just noted as "19th November 2024" release. Changelog includes;   Updated SASL plugin to version 3.17.3 Fixed GPS D' direct' function that X-Plane 12.new G1000 background processes broke. Adapted flight model for X-Plane 12.1.2 Low speed handling improvements. Autopilot airpseed, altitude and vertical speed “step” improvements. Improved APC (Approach Power Compensation) lua code. Added “revision mode” to backup and primary cockpit displays when the HUD is switched OFF. Added Hot Brake status displays now that X-Plane 12.1.2 has functioning brake temp data refs.     X-PlaneReviews full T-7A review is here: Aircraft Review : T-7A Red Hawk X-Plane 12 by Angle of Attack _____________   T-6A Texan ll The T-6A Texan II is a single-engine, two-seat primary trainer aircraft designed for military pilot training. Manufactured by Beechcraft Defense Company, a subsidiary of Textron Aviation, the T-6A is widely used by the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, and several allied nations for undergraduate pilot training programs. The T-6A is based on the Swiss Pilatus PC-9 but modified for U.S. military requirements, including avionics and ejection systems.   Version 2.3 XP12 (November 19th 2024) - Updated SASL plugin to version 3.17.3 - Fixed GPS D-> "direct to" function that X-Plane 12.1.2's new G1000 background processes broke. - Adapted flight model for X-Plane 12.1.2 - Fixed SASL plugin/LUA script fuel gauge bug. Fuel quantity gauge; left needle reading from right fuel tank quantity.   Notable also is an earlierT-6A v2.2 Update on the 3rd October 2024 - GPS fix - Custom PT6A engine right exhaust heat blur. X-Plane by default only has 1 exhaust heat blur per engine whereas the PT6A engine has two exhaust stacks, so we had to add the second exhaust blur as a custom particle effect. - We updated the two default liveries with exhaust stains on the right side of the aircraft nose and above the right wings as seen on real T-6As. The rest of the liveries will be updated and one at a time and posted on the freeware download manager when they are ready.     X-PlaneReviews full T-6A review is here: Aircraft Review: AOASimulations-T6A Texan II X-Plane 12   Both the T-7A Red Hawk and the T-6A Texan ll can be updated via your account on the X-Plane.OrgStore. _______________________     The  T-7A Red Hawk XP12 and T-6A Texan ll by AOA Simulations are both now available from the X-Plane.Org Store: T-7A Red Hawk XP12 Priced at US$36.00   Requirements X-Plane 12 or X-Plane 11  (both versions included) 8 GB+ VRAM Recommended Download Size: 419 MB Current version: XP12 2.0 (November 19th 2024)  Advanced Features SASL 3.16.1 based plug-in system “Roll to See” dynamic pilot POV camera option (non-VR mode) points pilot camera based on pitch, roll and G forces "Target Track" points, locks and follows AI planes with pilot camera Automatic Ground Collision Avoidance System Fly from forward or aft cockpits as student or instructor "Virtual" ground and In-Flight Refueling capability Track-IR and VR compatible AviTab tablet integration (Download AviTab plugin separately)  Cockpit based on preliminary assessment of prototype T-X screen shots Head Up Display Up Front 32 points touch screen control and display panel Large format glass panel with embedded G1000 color moving map Multiple sub panel page options Dedicated engine data display   T-6A Texan II Price at time of writing US$40.00   Requirements: X-Plane 12 or 11 Windows , Mac (M1/M2 Supported), Linux 8 GB+ VRAM Recommended Download Size: 409 MB Current version: 2.3 (November 19th 2024)     Features: This model was developed using the official USAF 1T-6A-1 Flight Manual and SNFO (Student Naval Flight Officer) P-880 Aircraft Systems explanatory guide. Two default liveries, USAF and U.S. Navy TAW-5. 17 additional liveries will be available on the X-Plane.org freeware download manager. This is the T-6A model with federated (many small units combined into one system) glass display panels. The project has been in development since February 23, 2020 and is our most detailed model to date. The Model High quality 3D model with high-resolution, 4K PBR textures. Fully functional virtual front and rear 3D cockpits with more than 380 control manipulators. Everything works, fly from either cockpit. Both pilot and instructor models visible in cockpit views. Optimized to save FPS in VR. Ground equipment The Flight model Fully aerobatic, high performance dynamic flight model tested and approved by several former T-6A pilots. Single “Power Lever” control of engine and propeller enables "jet like" simplicity. Unique T-6 Trim Aid Device (TAD) is accurately modeled. This compensates for most engine torque effect with automatic rudder trim.  Sounds Professional FMOD sound package by SimAccoustics Documentation Detailed 38 page User Guide and detailed avionics illustrated guide sheets available HERE ON OUR SUPPORT PAGE prior to purchase. Several checklists options to choose from including detailed checklist powered by Xchecklist freeware plug-in. Tutorial checklist and example Training Flight to get you up to speed with the aircraft.  More details All panel displays are accurately modeled and powered by SASL plugin / lua code Complete electrical systems model. Every circuit breaker on both the battery and generator bus panels is functional. Individual systems can be isolated, failed and restored via its cockpit circuit breaker. Optional "AOA Extras" for student pilots or those who want to know a little more about what's going on with while the fly.  Save load feature allows you to save some options once and they are the same on your next flight in the model. Default Laminar G1000 available to use with a custom database in the panel mounted GPS unit. Future developments  This model is for X-Plane 11 only. It is not compatible with X-Plane 12. When X-Plane 12 is stable then a new version will be released as a free upgrade for existing users. ___________________________   News! by Stephen Dutton 20th November 2024 Copyright©2024: X-Plane Reviews   (Disclaimer. All images and text in this review are the work and property of X-PlaneReviews, no sharing or copy of the content is allowed without consent from the author as per copyright conditions) All Rights Reserved    

NEWS! - Scenery Released : Fly2High releases KSAV - Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport     Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport is a commercial and military-use airport in Savannah, Georgia, United States. Savannah/Hilton Head International provides travelers with access to Savannah, Georgia, and Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, as well as neighboring areas including Bluffton and Beaufort, South Carolina and the Golden Isles region of Coastal Georgia.   Savannah/Hilton Head International is located seven nautical miles 8 miles (13 km) northwest of the Savannah Historic District. The airport's passenger terminal is directly accessible to Interstate 95 between Savannah and the suburban city of Pooler. Its previous names include Savannah International Airport, Travis Field and Chatham Field. Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, and a subsidiary of General Dynamics is also based here at Savannah/Hilton.   Fly2High are a Vietnamese based development house, that has been primarily a FlightSimulator developer. Savannah/Hilton Head is their first foray into the X-Plane Simulator. They have had great success in the FS market for high quality sceneries, so this will be an interesting look at the shift to a new Simulation platform.   Features Include 3d vegetation Realistic grunge/dirt/wear and tear Realistic ground textures Handplaced night lighting XP 12/11 version both included  Handplaced vegetation around the vicinity of the airport Tower/terminal interior modeled  modeled graves on runway  Handplaced cars  Much more!            This is a very expansive scenery at a great discount price of only US$16.00, pick up a great investment now...   Images are courtesy of Fly2High _______________________________     KSAV - Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport by Fly2High is now available from the X-Plane.Org Store here:   KSAV - Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport Price is only US$16.99 You Save:$3.00(15%) Regular price is US19.99   Requirements X-Plane 12 or X-Plane 11 Windows, Mac or Linux 8GB + VRAM Recommended Download Size :  2.4 GB  Current version : 1.0  (Nov 19th 2024) ___________________________   News! by Stephen Dutton 20th November 2024 Copyright©2024: X-Plane Reviews   (Disclaimer. All images and text in this review are the work and property of X-PlaneReviews, no sharing or copy of the content is allowed without consent from the author as per copyright conditions) All Rights Reserved  

Seems like a good update to me. However this article has made me realize that the update, at least temporarily, will have moved my Airac back from the current month that I had as a subscriber to the 2306 one provided in stock XP12. On the account login it is very subtle (I did not notice it for a while) but when you set up an account it links automatically to my Xplane subscription. Using the same email address for the account that you used when buying your subscription is perhaps important?

NEWS! - Laminar Research releases X-Plane 12.1.3 beta     Laminar Research have released a new version of X-Plane in v12.1.3 in Beta form. The focus of this update is on the ATC (Airtraffic Control) with a load of ATC fixes and the important SID/STAR routing. A great change is the Separate Sound devices for aircraft AUDIO and ATC audio, as it now allows you to have aircraft sounds on the desk speakers, and also the ATC on your headphones! Loads of Weather improvements (NEXRAD recalibration, METAR/GRIB rework, altitude jump fix) and new small scenery addition in KJRB Downtown Manhattan Heliport. The inclusion now of a X-Plane Identity (which a new login system for X-Plane and a stepping stone to the XP Store), some A330 Autopilot improvements and UI (User Interface) changes   ATC System Improved support for VFR flying, including flight following and controller hand-over Support for SIDs and STARs in IFR flights Sounds Assign different output devices for sounds and radio Custom Airports Downtown Manhattan Heliport (KJRB) Weather     Altitude and pressure changes will no longer happen quickly and violently (XPD-15826)     Creation of cloud voxels in real-weather mode no longer tries to sample outside the available data     Creation of cloud voxels no longer incorrectly blends different clouds together by taking the maximum value from both     METAR winds with altitudes midway between standard wind altitude levels are no longer off-heading and reduced velocity     Fix data-out for “ISA temperature”, Surface, FL140 and FL340 were actually showing 0 ft, 1772 ft and 3243 ft MSL     GRIB data was being discarded near METAR data locations     METAR data will no longer have any effect on the tropopause     Fade out METAR temperature curve to maximum METAR reporting altitude to avoid altering upper atmosphere temperatures     Make coverage noise pattern change sensitive to the weather seed     Reset weather lat / lon and random seed when moving the aircraft in static-weather mode, static weather cloud patterns should change if you move the aircraft to a new part of the world     CAVOK / SKC etc. in METAR reports will clear cloud as expected     Fix cloud discontinuity crossing the dateline     Improved NEXRAD rendering to be more accurate and display less red / magenta areas (XPD-16042)     Processing real weather in areas with many METAR should use less CPU time     New option “Maps show weather details as METAR” in settings to show weather conditions as METAR on the map     Better parsing of METAR data, especially of “no data” groups in automated METAR     Add explicit no-cloud layer below the lowest METAR cloud layer. Try to sanitise base/tops after blending individual cloud types in overdraw mode     Change handling of zero-thickness GRIB clouds – fixes vertically smeared cirrus.     ATIS not longer reports clouds after the first overcast layer or after 10.000 ft     ATIS of an airport will include the transition level when appropriate     Support AWOS at helipad/seaplane only airports   Fixes and Enhancements General     VRAM optimisations for non DDS textures     Updated the default navigation data to AIRAC 2306. Many thanks to our friends at Navigraph for providing us with the data.     Fixed stutters in the simulation when showing UI elements such as the menu bar (XPD-16018)     Performance improvements when loading .acf files     Wrong DME distance is displayed if the VORDME has been selected on the map and a new scenery tile has been loaded     X-Plane 11 lights are restored to their previous brightness during the day. These lights may be used on scenery, third-party objects and vehicles, not just X-Plane 11 aircraft     Floating VR windows retain their positions when they’re re-opened, and move relative to the pilot’s seat when changing aircraft     Theses fixes gave me a load of scenery errors? (VRAM optimisations for non DDS textures), and the default navigation data has been updated, to June 2023.   ATC    Add bindable command for toggling taxi guidance arrows     Improved the performance in finding ATIS and controllers near the user’s aircraft     Puerto Rico and Alaska belong to the United States airspace in X-Plane     Changed for Canada the region to ICAO phrases and inHg pressure unit settings     Improved the implementation around RVR, issued when needed and on request when a runway is assigned     Hold sequencing has been improved     Implemented a smoother ground to tower handoff when approaching the active runway     Transition altitudes are no longer rounded to the nearest 500 ft, as some regions use meters     Taxi routes will look at other aircraft’s planned routes to try and avoid sending aircraft both ways on the same taxiway, were any other route is possible     In case some pilots get off course during a flight, we improved the off course detection and ATC will contact them with a friendly reminder     Use explicit reminder the first time an altitude warning is issued followed by an ‘expedite’ thereafter     Weather related vs. normal overnight airport closures will be handled differently now     ATC will consider all runways in a flow when aircraft specific requirements could not be met and not just the appropriate arrival / departure runways     Improved generation of runway flows for airports with only parallel runways and no flows defined     Always include a long runway in generated flows if it looks like it’s needed     ATC will tell you the expect approach or expect runway     Allow request for a different parking spot when one is already allocated     ATC system is aware of the aircraft purpose when assigning a parking position     Added a new ATC request to shutdown the engines     Localised phrases for radio check     Localised greetings for non-US controllers     Waypoint names are spoken wherever possible     Give the altitude for the initial segment when requesting a landing from a regional controller     Disable ATC auto tune for COM1 as soon as the user changes the frequency manually     The dataref "sim/atc/atis_enabled" to mute ATIS can be used per frame again (XPD-15850)     A three-letter airline identifier set as part of a livery is now considered when ATC assigns a parking spot     Don’t allow a radio check to an AWOS station     Allow immediate ‘Cross runway…’ call after handoff to tower if possible     Allow radio check anywhere and not just on ground before contacting ATC     Add ‘Have Information’ if the pilot has listened to the full ATIS message     Transition Altitude and Transition Levels are properly supported now. We also support airport and controller specific transitions.     It is possible to report a failed transponder. ATC will afterwards request regular position reports.     Previously, it was possible to request a diversion during cruise only. Now it is possible to even request if during approach and landing, but only the diversion to a nearby airport.     It is possible to request an alternative runway for arrival and departure (XPD-14062)     Improved ATC instructions when landing on Aircraft carriers (XPD-14189)     Improved ATC instructions when doing a go-around     Improved calculation of ATC transmission strength depending on your location     ATIS and radio calls are changed for airports which are closed due only to time restrictions in a flow – i.e. a typical small airport which is only staffed during business hours. When out-of-hours, there will be no response by radio and ATIS, if it exists, will be replaced with AWOS which will include a phrase saying which controller to contact to clear a flight plan. Normal comms still happen during open hours, even if the airport is closed due to other restrictions.     ATIS letter change broadcasts should happen in FAA regions only     Autogenerated runway flows will now include a long runway in all flows, where a particular flow only has a short or soft-surface runway where a longer runway exists. AI Aircraft     Allow GA, rotary, gliders and VTOL AI to use grass / gravel / dirt and lakebed runways     Added much more variation of the initial altitudes     Added a minimum turnaround time at airports     AI aircraft will set the transponder if needed     AI Aircraft use now the correct speed for wind corrections     AI Aircraft use the correct external lights logic (beacon, strobe lights, …)     AI will switch on anti-ice in icing conditions     AI aircraft will descend on the glide-slope between calling ‘established’ and getting landing clearance     AI will make turns autonomously even if ATC is talking, on procedure segments which require no verbal instructions     Improved trans-polar flights     Holding aircraft can block departing aircraft if a teardrop turn is used after backtrack. Previously 180 degree turns were done to the side of the main path, but if a hold-short was close to the end of the runway it would be possible for waiting aircraft to be close enough to the turning aircraft that it was unable to complete the turn. Now the turn will be generated after checking for a hard surface on each side of the runway, where a turning area or access point exists, and will fall back on a symmetrical teardrop where needed.     AI Aircraft were not consistently being refuelled before departing an airport and may not have received enough fuel. AI will now periodically switch fuel tanks while the engines are running to keep balance. They will also switch tanks when fuel gets low or runs out in a particular tank.     AI Aircraft will initiate go-around if they have not heard from tower in time. Tower will initiate go-around earlier if it becomes clear that two arriving aircraft will conflict instead of waiting for the last minute. It will also initiate go-around for approaching aircraft which get too close. In both cases the aircraft redirected will be the furthest aircraft instead of the last to reach the runway. Several issues with detecting backtracking aircraft both on arrival and departure have been fixed.     AI Aircraft are now aware of icing conditions and will enable anti-ice features when needed X-Plane Identity     Added option to create an account and link your current license to it     The account is shown on the top right of your "Main Menu" page   Flight Configuration     New option to filter ramps suitable for the currently selected aircraft in the airport view and display additional ramp information     New option to filter airports suitable for the currently selected aircraft Map     Display active runways for airports     Display parking ramps and taxiway lines on the map when you zoom in to an airport     Added checkbox on map to disable taxiway lines when zoomed very close     New option “Maps show weather details as METAR” in settings to show weather conditions as METAR on the map     Display IDs for ILS, GPS and GLS approaches to better distinguish them when multiple approaches of the same type and the same runway are available     Active runways are now shown in green (grey are non-active), embedded Taxi-routes can now also be toggled ON/OFF     Parking ramp selections now have stand data in, name, type, purpose, size class and equipment.   Aircraft     Added the new command sim/flight_controls/speed_brakes_arm_toggle to arm/disarm the speed brakes     The font of the new HUD will not scale anymore regardless of the selected font size in the General Settings Cirrus Vision SF50     Fixed the fuel capacity and the display of it on the G1000 (XPD-15955) Cessna Citation X     Using full reverse thrust will no longer trigger a takeoff warning (XPD-15680)     The performance calculation of the FMS will no longer use hardcoded values for the number of passengers, available flap settings, etc. All those values are taken from the acf file or the performance data instead to allow the integration of the FMS in other planes.     Added a new dataref called "sim/cockpit2/engine/indicators/N1_fadec_arc" for the FADEC N1 target Plane Maker     Plane Maker no longer crashes with an out of VRAM error when loading aircraft with large texture files (XPD-16061)     Added a scrollbar in the object list if needed (XPD-16105) Local Web API     It is now possible to unsubscribe from multiple datarefs or by using the keyword “all” (XPD-16067) SDK     XPLMPlayPCMOnBus API should now always call the sound-complete callback on the main thread (XPD-15907) Linux     Because of some dependency issues we had to drop support for Ubuntu 20.04 LTS. Please consider updating to a newer release of Ubuntu if you are still on version 20.04 LTS. It ships with quite a few outdated libraries. In order to run X-Plane 12.1.3 make sure you have "libwebkit2gtk-4.1.0" installed.     Zink has been disabled for Linux users for the time being. You can still enforce Zink by running X-Plane with the command line parameter "--zink". We expect to get Zink support back during the beta phase.   You can update to X-Plane v12.1.3 now via the built in X-Plane Installer application, just select "Update X-Plane" and make sure the "beta" selection box is ticked.   I'm not expecting v12.1.3 to be a long beta, running only a few weeks before going RC (Release Candidate), then the next step release of v12.2.0. Will it be released before Christmas or After in 2025? pick your choice, my bet is before Christmas. ___________________________   NEWS! by Stephen Dutton 19th November 2024 Copyright©2024: X-Plane Reviews   (Disclaimer. All images and text in this review are the work and property of X-PlaneReviews, no sharing or copy of the content is allowed without consent from the author as per copyright conditions) All Rights Reserved  

NEWS! - Aircraft Updated : F-19 Stealth Fighter v1.4 by vSkyLabs     vSkyLabs have updated the F-19 Stealth Fighter to version v1.4. In 1986, as speculation about Lockheed’s Northrop built what it called the YF-17 technology demonstrator to compete with General Dynamics’ YF-16 in the lightweight fighter program. When the F-16 won, the U.S. Navy hired Northrop to base the Navy’s next fighter on the -17, with the result designated F-18. Testors (model kits) assumed that in order to deflect radar waves, the the next F-19 would be sleek and streamlined and would somewhat resemble Lockheed’s other-worldly SR-71.   This VSKYLABS 'Test-Pilot' F-19 Stealth Fighter Project is an Educational/Research based development effort that "brings to life" and realizes the hypothetical 1980's Testor's F-19 concept in the most advanced flight simulation environment up to date in X-Plane 12 by Laminar Research. The simulated VSKYLABS F-19 it is not an 'arcade' aircraft...nor a 'generic jet fighter' that only looks like the F-19 externally, it comes with  extensive, professional real-world experience and knowledge of jet-fighters design, systems, performance, handling and operation were involved in the making of the VSKYLABS F-19. The result uncovers a scientific, graceful, powerful aircraft that holds a few weaknesses as well...   just like any other *real* jet fighter, what makes flying a true-to-life and fascinating experience, especially when exploring the flight envelope and its performance characteristics.   PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS VSKYLABS 'Cockpit-Builders Heaven Layer': Allows assigning all aircraft switches, knobs, levers, and interactions in a designated, uncluttered section in the X-Plane 12 assignment screen. Advanced concept aircraft simulation, including detailed, fully functional 3-d cockpit environment with realistic, working systems. Extensive, professional real-world experience and knowledge of jet-fighters design, systems, performance, handling and operation were involved in the making of the VSKYLABS F-19. Designed for X-Plane 12 cutting edge flight model environment and presents superb flight dynamics with presumably authentic performance and flight handling characteristics for the hypothetical F-19 aircraft. Developed for VR: Development was tailored specifically for VR, and optimized for 2D usage. Engineered and designed as a genuine, default X-Plane 12 aircraft. The VSKYLABS projects are practically show-casing X-Plane, as they are stretching X-Plane default features, systems and flight model to its limits without any dependencies on complementary plugins or software...delivering a very robust simulation model, having maximum compatibility with the ever evolving X-Plane flight simulator. Comprehensive FMOD sounds for 'As Real As It Gets' experience! Perfect challenge for beginner and expert pilots: Provides a very wide flight envelope with comfortable control from ~140 knots to Mach 1.1. Autoupdater based on the Skunkcrafts autoupdater - all updates are being pushed smoothly without the need to re-download the entire base package (base package will be updated every once in a while to minimize the gap).   This v1.4 is a Major Update Release. Flight Dynamics - Flight model 'Block 1.4' update: Design improvements for aircraft canard system and empty CG, to include movable canards for increasing pitch management and precision in the low-mid AOA range. This improves takeoff and landing handling in the pitch axis. Thrust vectoring simulation method has changed, now simulating more accurately the limited-thrust vectoring behavior of the elevator, which is most effective in the elevator-up position, and highly reduced in the elevator-down position (the thrust is positioned above the elevator surface, which results in decreased elevator-down thrust vectoring effect). This is now being simulated more accurately, improving aircraft handling in the pitch axis especially during low-speed/high power setting.  VSKYLABS Cockpit-Builders Heaven was implemented, allowing the assignments of all aircraft switches, knobs, levers, and interactions in a designated, uncluttered section in the X-Plane 12 assignment screen. To use it for key/button assignments, simply type the name of the aircraft in the search bar and select your assignment. Systems - Update to Fire Detection and Extinguisher system: When arming the extinguisher system for the selected engine, the fire-warning light will be lit (in addition to the 'Ready/Disch'), indicating that the given engine is 'armed'. There is now option to disarm the extinguisher for the selected engine by depressing the 'Fire' warning light.         VSKYLABS F-19 Stealth Fighter Specifications: Country of Origin: USA. Type: Single-seat shipboard and shore-based strike stealth aircraft. Power Plant: Two 11,000 lb st dry and 17,700 lbs st afterburner General Electric F404-GE-100A turbofans. Dimensions: Span, 31 ft 5.4 in; length, 62 ft 3 in; height, 12 ft, 10 in.  Performance: (F404-GE-100A) Max speed 750 mph, or Mach 0.99 at sea level ; 655 mph, or Mach 0.99 at 38,000 feet; Max speed Mach 1.2; Service ceiling, 53,000 ft; ferry range (with full internal fuel load, cruise at 28,000 ft, Mach 0.85), 1400 miles. Combat radius (air-to-ground low altitude mission), 550 miles (non-afterburner). Weights: Operational empty, 24,000 lbs; Maximum internal fuel, 14,000 lbs; Max takeoff, 41,300 lbs.  Armament: Three internal weapon bays designed specifically to carry two AIM-9X Sidewinder AAMs and a single AGM-158A JASSM low observable standoff air-launched cruise missile. Overall weapon bays carry-weight, 190 lbs*2 + 2150 lbs (max 2600 lbs.).   Design by VSKYLABS © 2022 Support forum for the F-19 by VSKYLABS   Images are courtesy of vSkyLabs...   The F-19 Stealth Fighter Project v1.4 by vSkyLabs is now available from the X-Plane.OrgStore, or update via the Skunkcrafts Updater. ___________________________     Yes! - F-19 Stealth Fighter by vSkyLabs is NOW available from the X-Plane.Org Store here :   VSKYLABS F-19 Stealth Fighter Current Price is US$26.36 You Save $6.59(20%) Retail Price is US$32.95   Requirements X-Plane 12  - Not compatible with X-Plane 11 Windows, Mac or Linux 8 GB+ VRAM Recommended  Current version: 1.4 (November 15th 2024) ___________________________   News by Stephen Dutton 18th November 2024 Copyright©2024: X-Plane Reviews   (Disclaimer. All images and text in this review are the work and property of X-PlaneReviews, no sharing or copy of the content is allowed without consent from the author as per copyright conditions) All Rights Reserved    

NEWS! - New Airport Released : LFNC - Mont-Dauphin Saint-Crépin, France by FSX3D     This is another Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region airport in France by FSX3D...  Mont-Dauphin Saint-Crépin Airport (LFNC) is a small general aviation airport located in the Hautes-Alpes department, southeastern France. Nestled in a picturesque valley near the town of Saint-Crépin, the airport primarily serves private aviation, gliders, and light aircraft enthusiasts. Its location in the Alps makes it popular among pilots seeking a scenic flying experience. Elevated 905 meters (2,969 feet) above sea level, it provides stunning views of the surrounding Alpine terrain.   The airport is surrounded by the dramatic peaks of the Alps, requiring skilled approaches and departures. Pilots must consider elevation, weather, and the possibility of downdrafts in the region.   Features: Ultra detailed car parks, taxiways and track PBR on all objects Ambient occlusion (Objects and ground) Wet track effects Dynamic lighting Compatibility Ortho4XP Compatibility AutoOrtho HD photorealistic ground South-Est Z17 (Ortho4XP 1.40) Autogen (Houses,Lights,Cars)     Again another cheap nifty French scenery, which are all great value, and now there are quite a few of these sceneries from FSX3D to collect, if you are flying around France.   Images are courtesy of FSX3D _______________________________     LFNC - Mont-Dauphin Saint-Crépin, France by FSX3D is now available from the X-Plane.Org Store here:   LFNC - Mont-Dauphin Saint-Crépin, France Price is US$12.99   Requirements X-Plane 12 (not for XP11) Windows, Mac or Linux 8 GB VRAM Minimum Download Size: 485 MB Current version : 1.0  (Nov 14th 2024) ___________________________   News! by Stephen Dutton 18th November 2024 Copyright©2024: X-Plane Reviews   (Disclaimer. All images and text in this review are the work and property of X-PlaneReviews, no sharing or copy of the content is allowed without consent from the author as per copyright conditions) All Rights Reserved    

NEWS! - X-Hangar updates de Havilland Canada DHC-5 Buffalo v12.1.1     The DHC-5 Buffalo is a twin-engine, short takeoff and landing (STOL) tactical transport aircraft designed by De Havilland Canada in the 1960s. It was developed as an advanced version of the DHC-4 Caribou with upgraded engines and increased capabilities, primarily for military use. The aircraft has extraordinary STOL performance and is able to take off in distances much shorter than even most light aircraft can manage.   This is an update to v12.1.1. from X-Hangar. The focus here are the new normal textures for the exterior (X-Plane 12), and new XP12 dynamic exterior lights, and you should now see them working both day and night. The autopilot power switch now works, you can now also yoke steer with the mouse and finally there was some flight dynamic tweaking.   Changelog v1.1 Fixed the autopilot power switch. the AP should now function when clicking on the switch. New normals for the exterior Steerable yoke with the mouse New exterior lights for v12. you should now see them working both day and night Minor flight tweaking for v12.1.1       Dominic Smith's excellent DHC-Buffalo X-PlaneReviews review is here: Aircraft Review: de Havilland Canada DHC-5 Buffalo by X-Hangar _______________________     The de Havilland Canada DHC-5 Buffalo by X-Hangar is now available from the X-Plane.Org Store here:   de Havilland Canada DHC-5 Buffalo Priced at US$22.95   Requirements X-Plane 12 or X-Plane 11 Windows, Mac or Linux 8 GB VRAM Minimum Download Size: 311 Mb Last updated November 14th 2024   Features For both X-Plane 12 and 11 3D cockpit VR cockpit Rain and wipers Opening windows Opening doors Opening ramp Yoke hides with keyboard key or press of a button on the panel Steerable yoke in both 3d and VR Pilot figures Passenger figures Static models Chocks and remove before flight flags Menu to hide co-pilot and other options Two different loads: Passenger or Cargo Cargo or passenger load displays according to load (more with more weight and less with less weight) Many international liveries Layers for painting your own livery Garmin 540 GPS with pop out or press buttons Autopilot Century 41 Checklist in .txt format to use in the Sim User manual in .pdf format to help fly in X-Plane FSE file included to fly Flight Sim Economy ____________   NEWS! by Stephen Dutton 18th November 2024 Copyright©2024: X-Plane Reviews   (Disclaimer. All images and text in this review are the work and property of X-PlaneReviews, no sharing or copy of the content is allowed without consent from the author as per copyright conditions) All Rights Reserved  

NEWS! - Toliss updates the Airbus A320 NEO to v1.1     Soon after a new ToLiss release, in this case the excellent Airbus A330 NEO. Then a lot of the features in that new release then filter down to the previously released aircraft. This is the v1.1 update for the A320 NEO.   There are a lot of new features in this update, covering; Hydraulic improvement package, MCDU improvement package, ECAM improvement package, FMGS (Flight Management and Guidance System) improvement package, New failure modes and a Visual improvement package. The full v1.1 changelog list is below...  You can use the Skunkcraft updater to update the ToLiss Airbus A30 NEO, quickly and easily to v1.1.   New features: Hydraulic improvement package:  . Added simulation of trapped hydraulic fluid in asymmetric actuators such as landing gear or spoiler actuators.  . Fixed the PTU overheat when ENG1 is failed. MCDU improvement package:  . CLR command is now indented in scratchpad as in real life . DIR TO page prefills the RADIAL IN on the DIR TO page as required ECAM improvement package:  . Overspeed warning now triggers based on actual flap/slat position and not lever position (PFD barber pole is still lever position driven as in real life.) . Removed duplication of system titles if the same system shows multiple subsequent rows of ECAM messages. . Weight display logic for SD: Prior to engine start, the dashes are now cyan. Weights now only show after engine start, like in real life. . Status page improvement: Approach procedures for hydraulic faults . Rework of the ECAM messages for electrical bus failures to represent a newer FWC standard FMGS improvement package: . Added possibility to use Airport ICAO codes as waypoints . Bug fixes for the path computation leading to an overall much stabler path computation in complex procedures. . Empty flight plan shows as PPOS / Discon rather than just "End of flpn" and can be built up from there. . VIA selection is now automatic, if there is exactly one VIA that matches the selected FINAL and STAR. . Constraints of first waypoint in STAR are not dropped anymore. New failure modes:  . Slow and rapid decompression . THS jam. . Cargo smoke, including latched closure of the isolation valves . Added high lift failures, including loss of SFCC channels and slats/flaps lock . Windshears with correct REAC W/S detection and indication. Visual improvement package: . Added AoA Vanes to fuselage model . Fixed the tiller textures . Animated the flap lever guard . Correct the eye reference ball colors and location . Fixed text overlaps on the overhead panel - Added new Circuit breakers (for high lift, air conditioning packs, ...) bringing the total to 240 - Added pitch influence to the RADALT value, so that the RADALT decreases when you pitch up (like IRL) - Added limitation with filtering to the maximum number of waypoints shown on ND when WPT overlay selected. - Quick starts for engine and APU are now available on the Joystick/Actions tab. - Mapped flight number to x-plane dataref "sim/cockpit2/radios/actuators/flight_id" for third party plugin interfacing. - Improved Master Warning flashing frequency. - Terrain on ND drawing around the airport is now inhibited for areas of same elevation as the airport.   Bug fixes: - Fixed issue with the interaction between the CLR button and the status page - Fixed issue with status page overflow. - The emergency generator now consumes hydraulic fluid. - The magnetic variation model now updates for the current year. - Fixed FMA alignment of armed modes and issue with empty boxes - Extended the permissible value range for FCU speed window to 399kts and Mach 0.99 like in real life - Extended the permissible value range for FCU altitude window to 49000ft like in real life - ISI startup correction: QNH is also visible during ISI startup; moved QNH to right location. - Removed CHG CODE field for other phases than PREFLIGHT or DONE. - Improved string termination on MCDU string datarefs. - Fixed an issue with SID route in alternate plan on first alternate plan programming. - Fixed an issue with waypoints preceded by a discon where the outgoing leg is of the CI/CD/CR/CA or VI/VR/VD type. - Fixed FMA indication for managed descent on profile with significantly too slow speed. - Fixed behaviour of the FCU HDG managed dot when a managed mode (NAV, LOC, APPR) is armed. - Fixed shape of the ADF2 needle on the ND. - Removed GS indication on ND, when the associated ADIRU is OFF or invalid. - Made the deceleration when descending through the SPD LIM altitude smoother. - Fixed issue with the beta target leading to excessive rudder deflection and spoiler extension on the wrong side. - Lots of other bug fixes (too many to list here)           The full X-PlaneReviews release review is here: Aircraft Review : Airbus A320-271N NEO by ToLiSS _____________________     Yes! the Airbus A320 NEO v1.1 by ToLiSS is NOW currently available from the X-Plane.Org Store here :   Airbus A320 NEO Price is US$89.99   Requirements X-Plane 12 or X-Plane 11 Windows , Mac (including M1/M2/M3) )or Linux 4 GB VRAM Minimum - 8 GB+ VRAM Recommended Not for commercial use. For any commercial use enquiries, please contact [email protected] Download Size: 792 MB Version 1.1 (November 13th 2024)   NEWS! by Stephen Dutton 18th November 2024 Copyright©2024: X-Plane Reviews   (Disclaimer. All images and text in this review are the work and property of X-PlaneReviews, no sharing or copy of the content is allowed without consent from the author as per copyright conditions) All Rights Reserved  

NEWS! - B748 update v2.8 Released by Supercritical Simulations Group     Supercritical Simulations Group with Flight Procedures Simulation have updated the Boeing 747-8 in Intercontinental and Freighter variants to v2.8.   Updated are the flight dynamics, manual and automated navigation guidance, flight performances, fuel consumption, MCDU features like speed restriction, arrivals and approaches, and it is now 100% fully compatible with Simbrief and Navigraph, and has better ND magenta lines presentation and other features.   To update you have to do a clean installation, in either download a new copy from the X-Plane.OrgStore (via your account), or use the new Skunkcrafts updater file below to do a clean installation.   SSG_B748_Series_V2.8.0_XP12 2.zip   The full changelog  v2.8 Version 2.8 Final release 1 for XP12.1 and later for  Windows and Mac. (not Linux) - Fixed issues with the fuel prediction on ground - Fixed speed restriction when VNAV is engaged at takeoff/climb. - Fixed many SID/STAR/APP magenta drawing issues. - Updated to last SASL plugin. v 3.17.3 Version 2.8 RC 1- RC2  for XP12.1 and later for  Windows and Mac. (not Linux) - New algorithm for fuel/time prediction. we have entered the consumption table and take into account CI. - Improved steps climbs and better predictions, now the CI takes more relevance - SIDS tracks improved (magenta lines) - Improved VNAV - Improved AT - Speed/altitude restriction in climb now working - Now much faster flight plan loading - Lat/lon waypoints working again - Fixed FIX not found - FMC resets when engines gets OFF after landing on the ground. - Small fixes in ND and others - Fixed some small bugs into the  Tablet - Autobrake now the TLA trigger is 70% aganist 50% that was before, for autobrake disconnect . It fix the "Autobrake not working" complains. - Fixed brake pedals  animation while in Parkbrake. Version 2.8 initial beta 1- 3  for XP12.1 and later for  Windows and Mac. (not Linux) - RNAV/LNAV and AT new algorithm (the most important update) - Antice system  updated to the new model - Fuel SFC low altitude adjusted - Flight model improved and tunned roll turns etc. for XP12.1 - SASL new optmised code structure ( better FPS is expected) - Fixed missed SIDS in certain airports - FMOD sounds updated - Fixed altitude target alert 100ft and 200ft - Many other small fixes like the  PFD speed indicator not shakes anymore. - Added displays PopUps that can be viewed in any camera state or as external window.       This v2.8 release is noted as "Final" for the v2 Series, there will be coming a new B748 v3 Series, and is not available for Linux users. ______________________________________      Yes! the Boeing 747-8 Inter v2 Anniversary Edition By Supercritical Simulations Group is available from the X-Plane.Org Store here :   Boeing 747- Inter Anniversary Edition Price is US$59.00   Currently available for US$43.00...  You Save $16.00(27%)   Requirements X-Plane 12 or X-Plane 11 - both links included  Windows , Mac  (including M Processors) - Linux not support for XP12 at this time. Linux supported on XP11 version 8 GB+ VRAM Recommended Current version : XP12: 2.8.0 (November 13th 2024) XP11: 2.5.1 (June 7th 2022)   NEWS! by Stephen Dutton 18th November 2024 Copyright©2024: X-Plane Reviews   (Disclaimer. All images and text in this review are the work and property of X-PlaneReviews, no sharing or copy of the content is allowed without consent from the author as per copyright conditions) All Rights Reserved  

Aircraft Review : Gulfstream 650/650ER by AKD Studios   In the world of privilege, those whom are superior to us mere mortals, then the word "Gulfstream" is their daily transport. These private jets are the upper echelon of status, and the bigger, faster and the longer range of these niche machines, then the higher the status.   AKD Design released X-Plane's Gulfstream G550 a couple of years ago in late 2022, the best dedicated Gulfstream for the X-Plane Simulator. Here is the release of the GLF 650, with including the GLF 650ER - Extended Range variant. The Gulfstream series is a complicated one, as the G600/G700/G800 Series was built upon the last series of G500/G550 Series, and those aircraft evolved out of the Gulfstream V as the GV-SP.   So is the GLF 650 the biggest and fastest? not quite, as I said Gulfstreams are complicated and don't follow in order. The GLF 650 has a 7,000 nm range and a maximum speed of Mach 0.925 with 18 passengers, The GLF 700 Series has a 7,500 mn Range for 19 passengers in a longer cabin of 56ft. The GLF 800 is a hybrid of the two, it has the shorter (GLF 650) cabin at 46ft, but the more modern engines and the newer wing to cover a 8,000mn range, carrying 15-19 passengers.   So the GLF 800 is best suited for the longest routes, while the GLF 700 maximizes cabin space for ultra-luxurious travel. The GLF 650 remains an excellent option for those who need luxury with substantial, but slightly less, range.   But then the GLF 650ER spices it all up a little with the GLF 700, as it can cover the same 7,500nm range, so you can connect even more distant city pairs, such as Los Angeles to Melbourne or Hong Kong to New York nonstop. Otherwise the G650 and G650ER are basically the same aircraft except in one area, in that the G650ER holds more fuel and has a higher MTOW to support the extended range.     But first just a couple of more statistics. If you have invested in the AKD GLF 550, then what is the difference between GLF 650? (noted here is the original G550 release).   Unexpectedly the cabin is actually smaller in 46ft 10 inch (G550 50ft 1 inch), height is only one single inch higher. The range between them is 7,000nm to the G550 6,750nm, but speed is the same at Mach 0.85, the engine is different with the Rolls-Royce BR725 engines, with a maximum thrust of 16,900 lbf (75.2 kN). The BR725 50 inch (130 cm) fan with 24 swept blades is 2 in (5.1 cm) larger, and 4 dB quieter than the BR710 on the GLF 550.   Overall the GLF 650 offers more cabin space, larger panoramic windows, and a lower cabin altitude (4,100 feet at high altitude) for enhanced comfort and reduced jet lag, so it is a step up in luxury, speed, and comfort from the GLF550.     Both the G550 and G650 fly the same, feel the same actually, but the G650 does have a better initial climb rate of 4,000 fpm, compared to the G550 3,600 fpm, then both can climb easily at 2,000-3,000 fpm over 30,000ft to a ceiling of 51,000ft. They are impressive machines.   The G650 cabin fit-out is different, more beige than the earlier G550 cream, the wood is changed from Teak to Walnut (a bit of a lighter wood). Chairs are actually smaller and more squarer than the wide G550 seating, but were as the G550 has abundant space, here the layout is far more better conceived, more realistic by design. With four forward club, twin club seats around a table, single club behind and only one sofa on the right rear.     The lovely buffet with popup (animated) monitor, that shows the in-flight map is also better positioned mid-cabin. walnut highlights show the non-smoking/Seatbelt signs, and the front galley is very nice, with a marble worktop.     There are two areas rear, first door is the washroom/toilet, rear is the large baggage area, with nets, a case, and the lower cargo hatch works for loading in the bags externally.     I wasn't crazy about the G550 windows, they are better(ish) here, but not in an advanced way, still don't have any animated blinds either, I expected a step up here?     From the X-Plane "Flight Configuration" menu you have the choice of both the GLF 650, and the GLF 650ER (Extended Range). So they are presented as separate aircraft.     Externally the two G550 and G650 aircraft are not much if anything different, you would be pushed to separate them. Modeling wise they are very good, but certainly not in that high ultra realism factor we can now expect from X-Plane 12.     The small issues are just that in being small, like the nosewheel lights (when off) and landing lights are not textured, or are blank. Not a good look at this level, and after two years, both G550 and G650 lighting should have been textured by now.     Window surrounds are Lo-Res, but nice tinted glass. Problematic cabin windows does actually have glass, but it is extremely thin and not really reflective, so it all looks a bit holey...  required is say a window tint or scratches to highlight the glass? There are two (male and female) pilots flying the aircraft, and quality pilots they are, but they are not animated.     G650 has a highly swept high aspect ratio wing with a 36-degree sweep angle, which reduces drag and enables high-speed, gives you an efficient cruise, the wing incorporates composite materials for strength and to reduce weight. Lean and mean here, lovely curve is right up to the well done blended winglets.     The G650 uses a Honeywell RE220(G) Auxiliary Power Unit, it provides high electrical power output and bleed air to the aircraft. The RE220(G) is hidden away in the lower tail, but you can hear it running. Distinctive Gulfstream tail (high bulky forward) is well done, and looks realistic. The G650 rear section and tail is quite different from the G550, cleaner and without air vents, but well done here.     BR725 engine pods are better than the AKD average G550 versions. Better fan detail is also all new, as is the rear exhaust detail. But I wasn't impressed by the poor internal fit, that showed in the surrounds of too much daylight?     Reverser action is very basic, just a set of cans and no real detail.     The nosewheel is exquisitely crafted, an amazing amount of small detail, down to strut, hydraulics, links and nuts, but the noted missing lighting glass still makes it feel all slightly unfinished?     Twin rear assemblies are trailing link, a normal gear arrangement on these executive jets. Again all the modeling and detail is first rate. Here better than the G550, that was quite bland/unfinished. Inner gear doors however are wafer thin, and not very realistic, but the animation is excellent. As are the nice rubber tyres and quality inner wheel rims.     Static Elements Externally you have a set of Static Elements, including pitot tags, chocks (all wheels) and two AKD logoed GPUs (Ground Power Units). Both the main entrance forward door and baggage hatch are nicely animated to open and close.     Cockpit The cockpit (no seperation doors on Gulfstreams) makes it feel very exposed to the passengers.     Inside the layout and feel is the Gulstream same, but different...  if that makes sense? You quickly understand the Gulfstream layout, but the feel in here is far lighter in beige, than the overall dark grey of the G550, it is helped by the very nice orange head and armrests on the seats.     Wall panels have the diamond patterned luxury feel as on the G650, but the "GulfStream" logo on the rear of the centre console is missing?   Seats are the same, but slightly modified in they now have armrests, but oddly only the inner rests are animated? Outwardly they look great, but on closer inspection they are quite lumpy and hard in detail, seats are locked into place as well. Note the hanging rear jumpseat, shame it is not animated....     Yokes are slightly different from the G550, in the centre paper clip holder is missing, but look better. PTT (Push To Talk) works, but not the electric trim? You can hide both yokes via pressing the instrument panel behind. Note the nice rudder pedals.     Throttle quadrant is also the same, but again different...  the handles on the G550 were chrome, here they are anodised, and note the "very" small AutoThrust (working) disconnect button.     Power on...  and you get a startup/alignment sequence. There are three options here; Real, Short or Instant alignment, but the full procedure is worth watching.     Flight Deck The Gulfstream integrated flight deck is based on the Honeywell's Primus Epic integrated avionics system. There are four huge 14-inch displays Active Matrix Liquid Crystal Display (AMLCD) that use the Next Generation Flight Management System (NGFMS). Basically they breakdown to the two external PFD (Primary Flight Displays), and the two inner MFD (Muliti-Functional Displays). Note, this is NOT the "Symmetry Flight Deck", that has Touchscreens and Side-Stick controllers.   The G550 uses the "PlaneView" Cockpit series, were as the G650 uses the upgraded "PlaneView II" system with the Cursor Control Devices (CCD), Predictive Landing Performance System (PLPS) and HUD "Dual Head-Up Display Option"...  not included here on the PlaneView ll are the Synthetic Vision System (SVS), Enhanced Vision System (EVS) and Automatic Emergency Descent Mode (EDM).   But provided however is a single pilot HUD, it works, but looks very dated to the latest Laminar Research default HUD, I expect it will be updated in an update.       The panel layout is basically the same as the G550, but there is a slight difference with the Gulfstream specific glareshield "Switch Panel Unit" (SPU) on the G650 and G700 series. There is an added element of the SMC or "Standby Multifunction Controller" that shows the backup instruments in the SPU, it is activated by the "STANDBY" button under the SPU selection buttons...     ...    if the SMC is switched off you get the Aircraft's registration number (a nice handy touch), and the usual SPU menu selections.   The SPU is basically a simple push-button controller and it is easy to access and set, the menus are shown on the SPU Display.     Selections include; PFD, MAP, SENSOR, FLT REF, TEST, CHKLIST - SYSTEM, 1/6 - 2/3, TRS, NAV, HUD. By my estimation about 70% of the SPU system is currently only working? but this is a very deep system.   Upper left buttons select the system area you want to access, and the right display has selection buttons to access the item, it is complex, but simple in the same instance. Once you work out where each selection is (or have a printed guide) then the system is easy to use.   Here you can select 2/3 of the PFD (or have the engine or data readouts left 3rd of the screen) or use FULL which gives you the full basic flight instruments Artificial Horizon top and the Horizontal Situation Indicator lower. Artificial Horizon, Speed and Altitude tapes, Bank roll scale and roll pointer, Vertical Speed markers, Pitch markers, ILS bars and AOA (Angle of Attack) guide.     There are 3 HSI selections with 120/180/360º options.     The left panel systems is separated into two sections selected from the Switch Panel Unit, in DU 1 "Upper" and "Lower".     These selections can be changed to show other system items, including; AC/DC Power, APU/Bleed, Brakes, ECS/Press (Environmental), Eng Start, FLT Controls and traffic. Selections are done by pressing the corresponding button to the line. NEXT gives you more options; <Cameras, CAS (Crew Alerting System), Checklist, Comp (Comprehensive) Eng, Pri (Primary) Eng, Sec (Secondary) Eng and Waypoint List...  RETURN takes you back to the first menu order.     These menu options are available on all four DU units. The other two DUs are set in the two centre displays DU 2 (Lower) and DU3 (Lower).     You have also in the central DU 3 and DU 4 displays, both have built in menus for MAP/Navigation. Provided are; Map Data, Aircraft Centre (Heading or Plan modes), Hdg, Prev, Next (waypoints), World and Map which is also on the systems menu     Left menu allows you to show Map data (Airports, VORs, NDBs...). The right menu shows aircraft diagrams for; AC Power, DC Power, Doors, Fuel, Hydraulic, MAP, CMC, ECS/Press, FLT Controls, Summary. And either DU 3 or 4 displays can be used via both menus.     The diagram layouts are more detailed than the G550, plus the camera is now in colour.   DU 3 upper right has an Engine Readout panel including N1 (Fan Speed), N2 (Core Speed) EGT (Exhaust Gas Temperature), Fuel Flow, ITT (Interstage Turbine Temperature), Oil Pressure and Temperature, hydraulic Pressure, Fuel Temps and Fuel Quantity. DU 4 has an upper left panel for the Crew Alerting System (CAS), and lower left is the excellent built in checklist with navigation selections.     True to the G650 system, menu navigation is via a three pronged PlaneView II CCD cursor (arrowed)     All four DUs (Display Units) will pop-out via the X-Plane Banner Menu "GLF 650ER AKD XP12".     The G650 CAS or "Crew Alerting System" is excellent as it categorises alerts into four levels: Warning (red), Caution (Yellow), Advisory (Blue), and Status (White). Can also be labeled as the Centralised Warning Panel (CWP) on the DU4.     •    Warnings represent immediate action items (e.g., engine fire) and are often associated with aural alerts.     •    Cautions indicate conditions that require attention but aren’t immediately critical.     •    Advisories provide information that may affect the flight but generally do not require immediate action.     •    Status messages give general information or notifications on system states.     Flight Management System (FMS), originally in the AKD GLF 550 it had the standard Laminar default FMS, and very basic it was...  But here in the G650 we have a more dedicated FMS, it's still a sort of hybrid, so it is not totally authentic to the Honeywell Primus Epic installed in a G650, it however is quite good and far, far better in detail and data than the default installation. All three MCDU units pop-out via the banner menu "GLF 650ER AKD XP12".     The IDENT and NAV INDEX are very authentic, but you can still insert a standard X-Plane .fms route from X-Plane. Manual entry of the flightplan is also possible, even with Co-Ords     DEPARTURE (SID) and ARRIVAL (STAR) are also available and can be tuned and ACTIVATED to your preferences.     So Flightplan creation and editing is very quick and easy, basically you load in your .fms flightplan, add in the DEP and ARR procedures and your done!     You can check the Flightplan (PLAN) by going to the Switch Panel Unit and selecting MAP, then NORTH to activate the PLAN mode.     Then press PREV or NEXT to navigate the Flightplan...     If the need be, you can also finely adjust the MAP screen via tabs, top, bottom and both sides via the CCD cursor directly on the DU Display.     There are also three PROG (Progress) pages with a significant amount of route and flight data.     The Automatic Flight Control System (AFCS) is positioned in the glareshield contained each end by each Switch Panel Unit (SPU) system, and the WARNING panel is far left and right.     AFCS is dual system, fail-operational, for both the Autopilot (AP) and the Auto Throttle (AT) subsystems. This is accomplished by hosting each system in a different modular avionics unit with two lanes in separate processors. The purpose of the AFCS is to provide Flight Director (FD), AP yaw damper and trim functions. The autoflight system receives computed lateral (roll) and vertical (pitch) steering commands from the FD system for the autopilot and for display on the Primary Flight Display (PFD). In the event the AP is disengaged the pilot can manually fly the steering commands presented on the PFD. The AP and AT systems make up the subsystems of the autoflight system. Layout and use is identical to the GLF 550.   Overhead Panel (OHP) is really well set out and easy to use. Digital numbers are all used in the readouts. Systems covered are; the Electrical system with all its buses, Full Fire Protection system, the full Hydraulic system, Gulfstream Fuel system and APU system and start up timing.     The main twin-throttles and rear reverser levers are as noted now an anodised, design, look nice, nice to use. Set each side are the standard Air-brake and Flap levers UP-10-20 (T/O and APP) - 39º (Down). Rear pedestal is all electric trims and MCDU 3, nicely done is the use of a FMS frame to hold the Radio settings, a simple but clever way of doing it.     Although the MCDU 3 holds the RADIO frequencies, the Radio controls are on both side panels with the lighting controls.     There are EFB/Tablets available for both the Pilot and First Officer, both can be separately accessed via the Banner Menu "GLF 650ER AKD XP12". As a note there is one other Menu option on the Banner Menu, this is the "IRS instant Align", to do a quick system alignment.     There are nine menu tabs; Fuel Payload, GND (Ground), AviTab, Flight Plan, PERF (Performance) Calculator, Settings, Checklists and Audio Volume and Cabin Lights. Most of the EFB layout is the same as the earlier G550, but there are a few differences.     FUEL : Here you can set your fuel load (Kgs and Lbs), Set Cargo, Set Payload, Passengers, and even the passenger weight. The changes are shown in fuel load, GW (Gross Weight) and ZFW (Zero Fuel Weight. Three options are also available; Reset Data, Set, and Insert Simbrief Data. You can now load in your Simbrief data directly into the Fuel/Weight page, but have to press SET to align the Fuel and Payload weights (which is a little slow?) an instant load would be nice. You can scroll or Add + or Minus - any number to your liking (like extra fuel)     When loaded you can then load your passengers by pressing "Boarding". Pressing "bring Passengers from terminal" will activate a very nice Mercedes bus, then load the passengers into the aircraft, when the bus will drive away, the opposite to deplane, or "Take passengers to terminal" is the reverse operation.     This activity has had a lot of refinement over the last two years, earlier it was a Tesla 3 car, a scale too big, and the process was chunky, but this is now really well done, if waiting for the bus to arrive is a bit (okay a lot) slow.   GND : There are a few options on the "Ground Handling Page" which are the Static Elements. Of which there is the GPU (Ground Power Unit) AC, but also noted a DC Unit, Main door and Main Door Lights, Chocks, Cargo Door...   on the Static Elements Page there is; front L/G covers, Captain and F/O pitot covers, and Main L/G covers. Open ALL Doors and Close ALL Doors options are also available     AviTab : AviTab (Plugin Required) is available and a nice to have.     Flight Plan : This tab option is new from the G550, but the former METAR tab is now merged with the Flight Planning.     Again you can "Inport Data from Simbrief" (Import Simbrief) to load in the current generated Brief, Flightplan and Fuel/Weights, then you can SET FUEL/PAYLOAD directly into the MCDU. This will set up the Departure and Approach speeds.   NOTE: I couldn't find the Simbrief Profiles for the GLF 650? So the developer has provided two, one for each variant G650 and the G650ER, both are listed below, and are required as a custom G550 version won't work or be correct to the G650 performance.     And four PERFORMANCE INIT pages... parts of the PREF are not yet completed, it looks like the VNAV section.     PERF (Performance) Calculator : There is a two page comprehensive performance calculator that can take data from the FUEL and METAR pages and fill in the required data, including : (Takeoff) DATA, AIRPORT INFO, TAKEOFF SPEEDS, FLAP LIMITS, (Landing) DATA, AIRPORT INFO, LANDING SPEEDS and FLAP SPEEDS.     SETTINGS : In settings you can set the various aircraft options, including; IRS Alignment (Time) - Real/Short/Instant, Refuel (Time) Real/Short/Instant, Simbrief User ID, Pause on TOD (Top of Descent), EFB Units (Kg/Lbs), Aircraft Temp units (Cº/Fº), Aircraft Weight Units (Kg/Lbs), Sync (Baro), Nosewheel (Roll/Yaw/Tiller) and EFB Brightness. Second page includes (advanced); Tail Rego, Use Kill Objects, Disable LuaJIT, Static Elements on Startup and Main Door open on Startup.     CHECKLIST : The checklist has been simplified, in that you now can't check off (green) items, otherwise navigation is still easy and the lists are through.     SOUND : Sound panel is currently quite basic, with sliders for (Master) Volume, Exterior Volume, Interior Volume, Co-Pilot Volume and Radio Volume.      CABIN LIGHTS : There are two pages of "Cabin Lighting" settings, the overhead lights, and diverse lighting. All can be either selected individually, or use the "Turn ON All lights' (Turn OFF also) to shortcut the cabin lighting, all can be adjusted for BRIGHTNESS via the sliders.   ___________   Lighting The AKD G550 when released in lighting was a bit hit and miss, but a lot of development has completely changed this aspect. The Cockpit lighting has about 12 adjustment knobs, and now all of them work, and they cover basically every area. From Instrument dropdown, OHP, Centre Console, pilots side panels, yoke lights and overall cockpit lights. The vestibule area behind the cockpit is especially well done.     As you know I like a certain cockpit sterile low lighting feel for takeoff and and landing, it is perfectly available here, but I will note was quite fiddly to get it right, not something you can adjust quickly? A neat feature is the text lighting on the yokes, high adjustment gives you white text, low adjustment the same orange text as the OHD and side panels.     Cabin Cabin lighting is just sensational. We have seen the options, and the selections are upper and lower downlights, and the separate seat lighting. Again with all the adjustments, there are load of different cabin variations you can create. Bathroom and Baggage areas are excellent. Even with the cabin lighting off, and the vestibule lighting on, it looks and feels nice and comfy.     External lighting The external lighting has been refined as well. It covers both landing lights with a "Pulse" option, nosewheel taxi lights, Navigation and Beacon/Strobe, tail lights, ICE/Wing and gear bay lights...     Landing lights are still a bit over bright for my tastes, but otherwise very good... the forward cabin door also has built in lighting, looks excellent.     A few GLF 650 flight notes I'm not crazy about the tight tiller, jiggly is more like it, and it is hard to taxi straight, the rudder pedals don't give you a lot of turning movement either, so the GLF 650 is a bit of a beast to taxi.     You need to "Arm" the ground spoilers when you get to the runway, if not they stickup, but this will also give you a "Ground Spolier Unarmed" Caution until you get there. It is very easy to not to set the A/T (AutoThrust) were you get the "A/T not in Hold" Caution. The "Arm" selector is hidden on the left of the AFCS, the best way to find the hot-spot is to switch on the "View/Show Instrument Click Regions"     Power up and your gone...  with a combined thrust of 33,800 lbf from the BR725s.     .... T/O flap is set at a high 20º, so you need to retract the flap to 10º almost immediately on leaving the runway, same with the retracting the gear to get yourself cleaned up as soon as possible.     Then the Gulfstream will climb like no tomorrow at a 4000 fpm climbout, but 3,500 fpm is far more realistic.     Remember the FMS selection is selected via the NAV button on the SPU... There is custom LNAV and VNAV. Climb, cruise and descend management with altitude and speed restrictions, and even RNAV Approaches are available.     You have a massive, almost Concorde ceiling at 51,000ft with this Gulfstream, so those impressive climb numbers are required, and you can reach that FL510 altitude at around 25 minutes under optimal conditions. At the really short 309nm distance between Luxembourg and Biggin Hill, FL320 is also still available, so we are not certainly pushing the GLF 650 anywhere near it's impressive credentials...   You have to love this...  a Gulfstream and X-Plane 12, Heaven.     Sounds are particularly good, with a 3D sound engine with stereo dynamics, lovely wind and control surfaces sounds that are different in the cabin than the flightdeck, the cockpit ambient sounds are excellent with no loops or repetitive droning and the systems have custom alerts. There are custom PA Sounds in Polish and English, but I couldn't find were you activated them...  overall the aural package is very good.   There are only two liveries in the package, N650GY and SP-TOP, but there is a paint-kit included. There is also a dedicated AKD GLF650 liveries page here: Liveries for the GLF650, with loads of choices.     Other features include a custom GPWS (Ground Proximity Warning System), TCAS (Traffic alert and Collision Avoidance System) and a very good custom Pressurization, Oxygen and Air Conditioning system, again required for that high altitude. You can go down as fast as you can go up!   You can descend at 3,000 to 4,000 feet per minute (fpm) during normal descent phases, but even 5,000 fpm is possible, though this is generally reserved for emergency situations. The passengers get quite a ride...     The aircraft has a very good "Autotune" for both the ILS and local VOR frequencies (115.10 BIG), so if you need to do a manual ILS or VOR tuning, then it must be turned off via the Radio page, if not the frequencies are locked in.     There is a bit of a trick to landing the G650, it is to get the most minimal speed you can for landing, if not it is a bit of a handful on the tarmac.     Whatever you can get away with you will accept, here it is a noted 136 knts approach, but closer to the runway I am down as low as 127 knts, and still airborne....  you just keep lowering and nudging the throttle rearwards as you get closer and closer to the threshold.     Then hold that final flare and let the Gulfstream sink as smoothly as you can...      ...  and touch!     Then hit the "Cans" and you will find the reverse thrust is very effective, thankfully as you require a runway landing distance of approximately 3,000 feet (914 meters) under ideal conditions (at sea level, standard temperature, and no wind) when fully loaded.     Biggin Hill 03/21 is only 5925ft (1806m) so it is quite tight if you leave the landing too late. And the G650 can be a bit tricky on those final moments and when down on the hard-stuff, hence that slow landing speed....  so it requires skill, in the takeoff and landing phases.     But this is a very nice genuine Gulfstream dream machine. _____________ Summary In world of the elite, then the word of Gulfstream is the biggest token you can play in this upper exclusive club. The Gulfstream 650 has a 7,000 nm range and a maximum speed of Mach 0.925 with 18 passengers, Gulfstream 650ER however spices it all up a little with the GLF 700, as it can cover the same 7,500nm range, so you can connect even more distant city pairs. G650ER holds more fuel and has a higher MTOW to support the extended range. This aircraft is a major global trotting machine with both oceanic and transcontinental in range, it can fly high as well to an almost sub-orbital 51,000ft.   AKD Design released X-Plane's Gulfstream G550 a couple of years ago in late 2022, the best dedicated Gulfstream for the X-Plane Simulator. Here is the release of the GLF 650, with also includes the GLF 650ER - Extended Range variant in this package.   The Gulfstream G550 was a first time project by AKD Studios and obviously they had to pick an extremely complex aircraft to start with. So we found at the time the G550 was a bit underdeveloped, but to be fair, AKD has been one of the most prolific developers, with delivering almost monthly, even weekly sometimes in updates. So the development of the not only the original G550, but also the features of the G650 are now all excellent.   Impressive in Gulfstream systems, the GLF 550 and this G650 are comprehensive and are excellent in operation, including the excellent Gulfstream "Display controllers" (menus) and all DUIs are covered by a four display screen arrangement based on the Honeywell's Primus Epic integrated avionics system, notable is that this is not the Symmetry Flight Deck in the GLF 650, but the "PlaneView II" system with the Cursor Control Devices, and that aspect is well done here. Also custom CAS (warnings), Ice and rain protection system (X-Plane 12), IRS system and a full (menu) Electronic Flight Bag (EFB), also notable is the FMS (Flight Management System) is now also custom, GPWS (Ground Proximity Warning System), TCAS (Traffic alert and Collision Avoidance System and a custom Pressurization, Oxygen and Air Conditioning system... it's an impressive list.   Modeling is now very good but your not going to get the extreme X-Plane 12 Ultra quality here, a lot has been refined and updated over the two years, but a few niggles still remain...  those cabin windows are still average and still have no blinds, the non-texturing of the main and taxi lighting is actually now becoming bewildering, and internal engine detail has too much light gaps from certain angles.   But the cockpit and cabin lighting is excellent and highly adjustable, sounds are very good as well, the cabin layout is better here than the G550, and cockpit seats have very nice orange highlights.   Personally I absolutely love these Gulfstreams from AKD Studios. X-Plane has always wanted really excellent transoceanic Private Jets for decades, and here they are available to X-Plane users, the G650 is also available in X-Plane 11. The price for the G560 is a little higher than the earlier released G550, but you get a lot for your investment, however if you own the GLF550 by AKD, you can get this GLF650 for a 25% off the price. Either way for your money you get a lot of aircraft with it's Gulfstream related systems and extensive list of features...  Highly recommended. X-PlaneReviews has also published the AKD Designs interview by Dominic Smith (Also on the X-Plane.Org) to get a background on this interesting developer. ________________________________     The Gulfstream 650/650ER by AKD Studio is NOW available here at the X-Plane.OrgStore   GLF650 - Ultimate Business Jet by AKD Studio Price is US$44.95   Requirements X-Plane 12 or X-Plane 11 Windows, Mac (even native M1, M2,etc Macs) or Linux 8 GB+ VRAM Recommended Download Size: 1 GB Current version : 1.01  (November 4th 2024)   PS: If you own the GLF550 by AKD, you can get this GLF650 for a 25%. Discount will automatically be applied at checkout as long as you use the same account.   Download for the Gulfstream 650 by AKD Studio is 1.03GB   And the final install in X-Plane Aircraft folder with the above loaded liveries is; 1.82gb. Authorisation is required. The AviTab plugin is also required to use this aircraft, and it is deposited in your X-Plane Plugins folder.   Simbrief Profiles:   GLF650ER: https://dispatch.simbrief.com/airframes/share/256234_1726736252301   GLF650: https://dispatch.simbrief.com/airframes/share/256234_1722423236448   Documents GLF650 by AKD Studio - MCDU Manual.pdf GLF650 by AKD Studio Introduction.pdf GLF650_AKD_Checklist.pdf Support.txt Designed by AKD Studios Support forum for the GLF650 Liveries for the GLF650 _____________________   Aircraft Review by Stephen Dutton 15th November 2024 Copyright©2024: X-Plane Reviews   Review System Specifications:  Windows  - 12th Gen IS1700 Core i7 12700K 12 Core 3.60 GHz CPU - 64bit -32 Gb single 1067 Mhz DDR4 2133 - PNY GeForce RTX 3080 10GB XLR8 - Samsung 970 EVO+ 2TB SSD. Bose Quietcomfort Headphones Software:   - Windows 11 Pro - X-Plane 12.1.2 Plugins: Traffic Global - JustFlight-Traffic (X-Plane.OrgStore) US$52.99 : Global SFD plugin US$30.00 Scenery or Aircraft - ELLX - Luxembourg Findel Airport v2.1  by JustSim (X-Plane.OrgStore) - US$19.95 - EGKB - Biggin Hill (XP10) 1.3 by Chars (X-Plane.Org) - Free   (Disclaimer. All images and text in this review are the work and property of X-PlaneReviews, no sharing or copy of the content is allowed without consent from the author as per copyright conditions) All Rights Reserved