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Update Review: Cessna 152 by Just Flight - Thranda Design

 

By DrishalMAC2

 

Introduction
Just Flight, in collaboration with Thranda Design, has introduced the widely recognised Cessna 152 (C152) for X-Plane 12, marking another milestone in their impressive lineup of general aviation aircraft. Following the success of their Arrow III and Turbo Arrow III/IV, this C152 release promises a high level of detail and an immersive flight experience. Based on the real-life C152, G-BGAE, from Conington Airfield, this simulation promises a top-tier experience for both training and casual flights. In this review, I will examine how the Just Flight C152 performs in X-Plane 12, focusing on its visual fidelity, flight dynamics, systems, and overall experience.  For those of you looking for a more in-depth review, I recommend checking out Stephen’s original review of the Just Flight C152 in X-Plane 11.


For reference, I fly the C152 in the real world as a PPL student. As a student, I pay particular attention to the aircraft’s performance in various configurations and stages of flight. This experience is fresh in my mind from real-world flying, giving me a solid foundation for reviewing the C152 in X-Plane 12.


Installation
Installing the Just Flight C152 is a straightforward process. After purchasing, you download the compressed file from your store account, which is around 700MB zipped and expands to about 750MB once extracted. Extracting the files is simple using any standard ZIP utility. From there, you just place the aircraft folder into the “Aircraft” directory of your X-Plane 12 installation.


For the X-Plane 12 version, you'll need to take an extra step. Go into the “JF_152” folder, then navigate to “XP12_ACF”. Rename the “JF_C152.txt” file to “JF_C152.acf” and move it into the main “JF_C152” folder, replacing the existing file when prompted. Make sure there's only one .acf file in the “JF_C152” folder, with none left in the “XP12_ACF” folder. The whole process only takes a few minutes, and the aircraft will be ready to fly once you've activated it using your serial key, which can be found in the “My account” section of the store page.


Documentation
Just Flight has provided comprehensive documentation, including a 58-page manual that covers vital information such as an introduction to the aircraft specifications, a systems guide, a panel guide, and instructions on how to fly the C152, along with normal and emergency procedures. Having reviewed this information, I found it to be very accurate, with the procedures closely matching what I’ve been taught during my PPL training.

 

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The C152 also comes with an Operating Data Manual (ODM), which provides various performance figures such as climb and stall performance. These numbers are quite accurate and align well with what I've experienced in the real aircraft. Additionally, a EULA and changelog are provided.

 

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External Texturing and Liveries
The Just Flight C152 comes with a variety of high-quality liveries representing several countries, including the UK, USA, Canada, France, Germany, and Australia, reflecting the global appeal of this two-seater aircraft. The external textures are modelled in high definition, providing clarity down to the rivets. Just Flight’s attention to exterior detailing, from the aircraft's markings to the subtle wear and tear of an older airframe, helps immerse users in the simulation.

 

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The use of PBR materials further enhances the realism, with light interacting with the aircraft’s fuselage in a lifelike way, particularly under different lighting conditions. The aircraft appears beautifully polished yet rugged, as you'd expect from a well-used training aircraft. Personally, I think the exterior textures are more than sufficient for this model.

 

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3D Model and Animations
The C152 model is built using real-world aircraft plans and extensive photography of G-BGAE, ensuring that the virtual version stays as true to life as possible. Numerous animated elements, such as working doors, windows, air vents, and even a realistically moving ignition keychain, contribute to the level of detail that sets this aircraft apart from other add-ons. The animations are fluid and seamlessly integrated into both the cockpit and exterior models, enhancing the aircraft’s realism. On the ground, you’ll notice the inclusion of chocks, tie-downs, and other ground equipment, creating a realistic pre-flight setup.

 

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Cockpit and Internal Texturing

Inside the cockpit, Just Flight has delivered a near-perfect replica of the C152’s interior. The 3D modelling is precise, down to the screws and seatbelts. Each instrument is fully modelled in 3D, and the wear and tear on the dashboard and controls is based on reference photos from the real aircraft. This adds a level of authenticity, creating a well-worn yet functional cockpit environment.

 

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The C152 features a fully VR-compatible cockpit, although I am unable to test this myself. All knobs, switches, and levers are responsive, and users in virtual reality will appreciate the carefully designed manipulators and snap points, making it easy to interact with the various controls. The cockpit lighting is adjustable, with dimmable instrument lighting providing flexibility for night flights.


The internal texturing is acceptable. The panel, yokes, and upholstery all show signs of aging and use, which contributes to an immersive flying experience. Users also have the option to turn off window and instrument reflections for a clearer view, particularly in different lighting conditions. However, the age of the aircraft model does show in some areas, as certain textures are not as high-resolution as those found in newer aircraft releases. I believe sharper textures would help bring the aircraft up to more modern standards.

 

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Avionics and Systems
The Just Flight C152 is equipped with a comprehensive set of avionics, perfect for both VFR and IFR flying. The standard setup includes a KX 175B COM 1/NAV 1 radio, RT-359A transponder, and ADF 300 unit, all of which are fully functional and easy to operate. The avionics are simple but effective, making the aircraft ideal for both flight training and casual flying. It’s worth noting that the aircraft does not come with an autopilot, which is standard for C152s. A custom weight and balance manager is also included, allowing users to adjust fuel, payload, and CG configurations, with changes accurately reflected in the aircraft's performance.

 

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One standout feature is the custom-coded electrical system, complete with functional circuit breakers. If an electrical component fails (which can be triggered by X-Plane's failure system), the corresponding circuit breaker will pop out. This level of system detail adds an extra layer of realism, allowing pilots to simulate full electrical failures and troubleshooting scenarios.

 

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Control Panel
The C152 includes a control panel accessible from the left of the screen, allowing pilots to manage doors, GPS pop-ups, reflections, lighting, and more with ease. While the layout may feel a bit dated, it’s still functional and covers a wide range of options, from door controls and GPS pop-ups to sound volume adjustments and state setups like 'cold and dark' or 'ready for take-off.' Some settings, like the altimeter scale, even carry over between flights, which is a handy touch. Stephen’s original review delves into more detail on the control panel’s layout and features, but overall, it's a solid, versatile tool here that serves both casual and dedicated simmers well. Hopefully, Just Flight will update this panel to bring it up to X-Plane 12 standards. 

 

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Flight Model & Performance
The C152 flight model is spot-on, thanks to comprehensive research and feedback from real-world pilots. With its 110hp engine and fixed-pitch propeller, the aircraft handles exactly as you’d expect from a two-seater training plane.


Takeoff and Climb
Take-offs are smooth, with a recommended rotation speed of around 55 knots, and the aircraft climbs steadily at about 65 knots. However, I noticed that with the trim set at take-off, the aircraft tries to rotate by itself at around 40 knots, which is not accurate. This happens regardless of the CG settings in the menu, but setting the trim nose-down helps fix the issue. Aside from that, the aircraft handles just like the real thing, with climb performance being spot-on and drag across different flap configurations seeming quite accurate. I can fly this aircraft almost exactly as I do in real life, with very similar power settings, and it performs just right. Of course, there are slight variations due to weather and weight and balance.

 

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Cruise and Flight Characteristics
In cruise, the C152 maintains about 90 knots at 2300 RPM, ideal for leisurely VFR flights or practicing navigational exercises. In flight, the aircraft feels highly responsive. The controls are tight, and the aircraft reacts predictably to inputs, making it an excellent trainer. The stall characteristics are also accurately modelled, with power-off stalls occurring at around 50 knots and a subtle wing drop typical of the C152. I found the stall behaviour to be incredibly realistic, closely mirroring how the real aircraft responds.

 

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Landing and Ground Handling
Ground handling is equally well-executed. The tricycle landing gear is forgiving, allowing for smooth take-offs and landings. The animation of the landing gear, including slow or fast tire rotation, adds to the immersion, making it easy to judge your ground speed visually.

 

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Sounds
Just Flight has made great use of X-Plane’s FMOD sound system, delivering a rich and immersive audio experience. The engine sounds are multi-layered, with subtle shifts in pitch and tone as you throttle up or down. Atmospheric effects, like wind noise, dynamically change depending on whether the windows or doors are open, adding an extra level of realism to the in-cockpit experience. Sounds for switches, doors, and other cockpit interactions are crisp and well-placed within the stereo field. Not all sounds are present, though, such as the door opening and closing. That said, the essential sounds are all there. The engine sounds are decent but could benefit from improvement, particularly during start-up and shutdown. The flap sounds are well done, though in my opinion, they're a bit too loud.


Night Lighting
The night lighting in the C152 generally provides a well-rounded experience, with adjustable cockpit lighting that offers some flexibility for night flights. External lighting, including the landing and navigation lights, is bright and clear, casting realistic halos and reflections on the aircraft surfaces. However, while the dome light technically illuminates, it doesn't seem to impact the actual cockpit lighting as it did in the X-Plane 11 version, which might be a letdown for those looking for the same effect. Overall, the lighting setup creates an immersive experience for low-light flights, though it could benefit from minor adjustments.

 

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Rain Effects
One feature I really enjoyed was the new rain effects in X-Plane 12. The droplets look incredibly realistic on the glass, adding an extra layer of immersion to the overall experience.

 

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Conclusion
Just Flight's Cessna 152 for X-Plane 12 is an impressive addition to their lineup, capturing the essence of this popular training aircraft with remarkable accuracy. The seamless integration with X-Plane 12's latest visual and physical enhancements, combined with high-quality modelling, textures, and accurate flight dynamics, delivers an immersive experience for both training and casual flying.

 

 

While there are minor areas that could benefit from improvement, such as some interior textures and sound details, the overall package is comprehensive, offering an authentic replication of the C152's characteristics. This makes it a valuable tool for both PPL students and enthusiasts seeking a realistic and engaging general aviation simulation. From my own experience, I can confidently say this aircraft is a must-have for student pilots training on the C152.

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The Cessna 152 by Just Flight - Thranda Design is now available from the X-Plane.Org Store here:

 

Cessna 152

Priced at $45.99

 

Features

MODEL

  • Accurately modeled C152, built using real-world aircraft plans and comprehensive photography of the real aircraft
  • Numerous animations, including windows, doors, air vents, sun visors, map compartment and realistically animated ignition keychain that responds to G-forces
  • Ground equipment including chocks and tie-downs
  • Authentic labelling and placards based on those found in the real aircraft, including unique airworthiness documentation for each livery based on the country of origin
  • HD textures are used to produce the highest possible texture clarity and immersion
  • PBR (Physically Based Rendering) materials with real-time environment reflections for superb quality and realism
  • HDR lighting (real-time illumination of interior and exterior surfaces)
  • Detailed normal mapping for down-to-the-rivet precision of aircraft features
  • New: End-user configurability (via Manifest.json file)

COCKPIT

  • A truly 3D virtual cockpit right down to accurately modeled seat belts and screw heads - every instrument is constructed fully in 3D with smooth animations
  • Cockpit textures feature wear and tear based on reference photos taken in the real aircraft to produce an authentic environment
  • Full VR support (VR manipulators, camera snap points, tweaked for comfortable usage)
  • Interactive checklists for every stage of flight
  • Aircraft configuration system that will allow you to choose between 'cold & dark' or 'ready for take-off' (if aircraft is stationary on the ground)
  • Fully functional and comprehensive IFR capable avionics fit including:
  • KMA 20 audio selector unit
  • KX 175B COM 1 / NAV 1 radio
  • RT-359A transponder unit
  • ADF 300 unit with ADF/REC/BFO modes
  • Interactive logbook panel for logging your flight details (X-Plane native)
  • Flight computer panel with useful information such as fuel burn, endurance, speed and wind speed/direction
  • GoodWay compatible
  • Ability to change barometric units from InHG to MB in altimeter adjustment
  • Option to activate flashlight from within pop-up window, to aid in those pitch-black cold and dark starts at night
  • Option to remove window and instrument reflection effects
  • Animated toe brakes
  • Radio knob animations routed through plugin logic, for optimum movement fidelity and sound synchronization

AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS

  • Custom-coded electrical system with functional circuit breakers. Circuit breaker logic is linked to X-Plane's internal failure logic, so if the plane is set to fail a certain electrical component after a certain number of hours, the circuit breaker for that element will pop out.
  • Realistic landing gear with slow/fast tyre rotation animation (blurry when rotating fast), and wheel chocks and tie-downs
  • Functioning carburettor heat and primer controls
  • Dedicated interactive engine pop-up window displaying values such as fuel tank weights and imbalance, fuel pressure, oil pressure, oil temperature, battery charge (with quick charge option), and information about spark plug fouling and vapour lock condition
  • Simulated vapour lock condition, with warning pop-up and suggested actions
  • Simulated spark plug fouling condition, with indication of percentage of fouling
  • Lighting system includes separate lighting control for gauges (via rheostat) and realistic implementation of radio light rheostat
  • Custom external light logic with custom strobe light pattern and custom light halos for added realism

Requirements

X-Plane 12 or X-Plane 11
Windows, Mac, or Linux
Video card:  4GB VRAM Minimum
Download Size: 950Mb
Current version: 1.9.2 (May 12th, 2023)

 

Review System Specifications

Windows 11, AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D, 32GB DDR5 RAM, RTX 3070Ti 

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Update Review by DrishalMAC2

31st October 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 copying of the content is allowed without consent from the author as per copyright conditions).

 

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