Dominic Smith Posted December 21, 2024 Report Posted December 21, 2024 Aircraft Review: PA-28R TURBO ARROW III / IV XP12 by Just Flight By DrishalMAC2 Introduction Just Flight, in partnership with Thranda Design, has brought the PA-28R Turbo Arrow III and Arrow IV to X-Plane 12, adding another impressive aircraft to their lineup of high-quality general aviation simulations. Known for their detailed recreations of aircraft such as the Arrow III and the C152, Just Flight’s Turbo Arrow III/IV raises the bar with its intricate modelling, advanced systems, and realism, all tailored to X-Plane 12’s capabilities. This review will explore the visual fidelity, flight dynamics, systems, and overall experience of the Turbo Arrow series in X-Plane 12. Based on real-world flight data and feedback from pilots familiar with the aircraft, this model captures the distinctive turbocharged engine characteristics and handling, making it an excellent choice for pilots seeking a detailed simulation of these touring and instrument-training aircraft. Note: For a more in-depth look at the features of the PA-28R series, including the original Arrow III, you can check out Stephen’s comprehensive review of the Just Flight/Thranda Designs PA-28R Arrow III for X-Plane 12 here. Many aspects, such as the high-quality modelling and systems, carry over into the Turbo Arrow III/IV, so this review focuses on what makes the turbocharged variants unique. Installation Installing the Turbo Arrow III/IV is straightforward. The download package is approximately 2.2 GB and unpacks to 3.1 GB after installation. Simply extract the files into the “Aircraft” folder within your X-Plane 12 directory. Once in the simulator, activate the aircraft using the provided serial key, and it’s ready to fly. Documentation Just Flight provides comprehensive documentation, including a detailed manual that outlines the aircraft’s specifications, panel guide, and procedures. The guide also covers the use of the Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) and advanced systems like engine management, custom electrical systems, and weight and balance. Additionally, an Operating Data Manual (ODM) is included, offering useful performance data such as take-off performance for various flap settings. Whether you’re an experienced sim pilot or a newcomer, the manual provides invaluable insight for operating the Turbo Arrow III/IV realistically. External Modelling and Textures The Turbo Arrow III/IV’s exterior is meticulously modelled using real-world aircraft plans and features high-resolution textures. While the external textures are of excellent quality, they are notably clean. Adding some general dirt and grime could enhance the immersion of a well-used aircraft. The attention to detail is evident in the rivets, panel lines, and subtle wear on the airframe. PBR (Physically Based Rendering) materials add realistic reflections and surface details, further enhancing the model’s appearance under varying lighting conditions. Static elements, plus other aircraft options such as the opening and closing of doors are toggled from Just Flight’s Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) (more on that later). Each livery, from the UK’s G-BYKP to the USA’s N-6919R, is recreated with care, showcasing the aircraft’s global appeal. The package includes three liveries for the Arrow III and an additional three for the Arrow IV. A template livery is also provided for those who want to create their own designs. Cockpit and Interior Inside the cockpit, the Turbo Arrow continues to impress. Every instrument is fully modelled in 3D, with smooth animations and authentic wear that reflects real-world usage. Key cockpit features include: Detailed seat belts, screws, and upholstery. Adjustable panel lighting for night flights. VR compatibility, offering an immersive experience for VR pilots (untested by me due to lack of VR hardware). Customizable avionics configurations, including the ability to pop out instruments for ease of use. The cockpit textures are generally of high quality, though some areas, such as the footwell and roof, are of lower resolution. This appears to have been done for performance reasons, but it’s not a significant issue, as these are areas rarely noticed during normal operations. Prioritizing performance is critical, especially in X-Plane 12, and this balance is well maintained. Avionics The aircraft is IFR-capable, featuring a KMA 20 audio selector, KX 175B COM 2 / NAV 2 radio, KN 62 DME, and a KR 85 ADF unit. The GNS530 is fully integrated, supporting procedures out of the box and offering compatibility with Navigraph and Aerosoft databases. For those seeking an enhanced avionics experience, the aircraft also supports RealityXP’s GTN750. Custom Systems Engine Management: The turbocharged Continental TSIO-360 six-cylinder engine is modelled with realistic performance, including simulated spark plug fouling and vapor lock. These conditions are displayed on the EFB, providing insights and solutions for maintaining engine health. Fuel and Electrical Systems: The custom fuel system includes an automatic tank-switching option for cross-country flights, while the electrical system features functional circuit breakers integrated with X-Plane’s native failure system. Landing Gear: The retractable landing gear is equipped with detailed animations, accurate shock absorber movement, and an emergency extension system. These accurately simulated systems, implemented by Just Flight, add a new level of immersion to this aircraft. Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) The EFB is a standout feature, offering a range of tools and customization options: Aircraft Options: Enable or disable ground equipment, reflections, and advanced simulation features like engine wear and fouling. Weight & Balance: Adjust payload and fuel directly within the EFB, with changes reflected in real time. Instrument Options: Enable or disable GTN 750/650 integration (third-party), toggle popups for the GNS 530 and Century IV. Engine Config: Monitor engine parameters, refuel the aircraft, and recharge the battery. Livery Customization: Switch between static and dynamic liveries or create custom paint schemes on the fly. Configuration: Toggle options such as engine running, automatic fuel switching, and adjust the flight model feel via the DynaFeel system. Checklists: Interactive checklists cover all flight stages, including emergency operations. Flight Computer: Displays a wealth of in-flight information, including temperature, ground speed, endurance, range, nautical and statute miles per gallon (NMPG/SMPG), density and pressure altitude (DALT and Press ALT), true airspeed, fuel flow, fuel used, and headwind/crosswind components, particularly useful for cross-country navigation. Additional Shortcuts: Includes quick access to X-Plane 12 native menus, such as the logbook, ground handling window, and AviTab (if installed). Flight Dynamics and Performance The Turbo Arrow III/IV’s flight model is built using extensive real-world data and feedback from experienced pilots. While I haven’t flown this particular aircraft in real life, I do regularly fly a C152 for flight training and have some relevant experience in the handling and operation of general aviation aircraft. That said, the PA-28R is a more powerful aircraft, with a heavier build and a low-wing design compared to the high-wing design of the C152 I’m used to. These differences naturally affect the flight characteristics and stability of the Turbo Arrow, offering a distinct experience for pilots transitioning from lighter, high-wing trainers. Take-off and Climb Take-offs in the PA-28R Turbo Arrow III and IV are smooth, with a recommended rotation speed of approximately 70 knots. The aircraft climbs steadily at around 90 knots, providing a realistic and predictable experience. Cruise Once airborne, the aircraft handles beautifully, performing exactly as expected for this class of aircraft, thanks to the fine-tuning by Just Flight and the excellent flight model in X-Plane 12. Setting the manifold pressure to 28 InHG and the RPM to 2,300 using the throttle and propeller lever respectively establishes a typical cruise. The aircraft flies smoothly and performs particularly well when practising power-on and power-off stalls, behaving as expected for a low-wing GA aircraft. Landing and Ground Handling Landing the PA-28R is a breeze. It handles very well, simulating the additional ground effect of the low-wing design, and the effects of adding flaps feel realistic. Ground handling is also well executed, making it fairly easy to maintain control during landings or take-offs. The landing gear animations are excellent, with both fast and slow rotation sequences included, further enhancing immersion. Overall, the aircraft performs as expected across all phases of flight, from taxiing to approach and landing. The ability to switch between the Turbo Arrow III and IV variants in real time is a unique feature, allowing pilots to appreciate the subtle differences between the two models. Night Lighting The Turbo Arrow III/IV features adjustable cockpit lighting which works well. The rheostat-controlled instrument lighting allows pilots to fine-tune their setup for comfortable night flying. However, as mentioned in Stephen's earlier review of the Arrow, the rear cabin is quite dark. Sound Design Just Flight makes excellent use of X-Plane’s FMOD sound system to deliver an immersive audio experience. Engine sounds, switch clicks, and atmospheric effects are well-executed, with dynamic adjustments based on viewing angle and cockpit conditions. Opening a window or door changes the sound environment, adding an extra layer of realism. The clickable headphone jack is a thoughtful touch, muffling and quietening the sounds to simulate wearing a headset in the cockpit. Overall, the audio design is fantastic, with the start-up and shutdown of the turbocharged engine being particular highlights. Conclusion Having spent the last few weeks putting Just Flight’s PA-28R Turbo Arrow III/IV for X-Plane 12 through its paces, I have to say the experience left me extremely impressed. Standout features like the detailed modelling, advanced systems, and immersive flight dynamics all combine to create an add-on that captures this iconic aircraft almost perfectly. The only minor improvement I can think of would be sharper cockpit textures, but as it stands, the Turbo Arrow III/IV is a must-have for X-Plane 12 users. Whether you’re a student pilot like myself looking for a training platform, or an enthusiast seeking a realistic touring aircraft, this add-on delivers on all fronts. ________________________ The PA-28R TURBO ARROW III / IV XP12 by Just Flight - Thranda Design is now available from the X-Plane.Org Store here: PA-28R TURBO ARROW III / IV XP12 Priced at $42.99 Features MODEL Accurately modelled PA-28R-201T Turbo Arrow III and PA-28RT-201T Turbo Arrow IV, built using real-world aircraft plans Numerous animations including multi-animation passenger door that, when open, responds to G-forces and air resistance, baggage door, cockpit window and sun visors Ground equipment including chocks and tie-downs 8k interior and exterior textures are used to produce the highest possible texture clarity PBR (Physically Based Rendering) materials with real-time environment reflections for superb quality and realism, completely reworked and upgraded for X-Plane 12 Detailed normal mapping for down-to-the-rivet precision of aircraft features. EFB livery switcher for switching between the Turbo Arrow III and IV variants in real-time without needing to use the aircraft menu X-Plane 12 native rain effects COCKPIT A truly 3D virtual cockpit right down to accurately modelled 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 Tablet EFB with a selection of apps full of useful tools and customisation options: Aircraft Options: Open/close the aircraft’s doors, enable/disable glass reflection, enable/disable ground equipment, and more! Weight & Balance: Adjust the aircraft’s weight and balance using the built-in configuration app and centre of gravity table. Instrument Options: Choose to have the cockpit avionics visible in the 3D cockpit or pop them out on 2D panels. Static Liveries: Change aircraft liveries without exiting to the main menu. Dynamic Liveries: Customise the aircraft’s paint scheme without leaving the aircraft. Features Modern and a Classic liveries whose colours can be fully customised in the aircraft, without the need for any complicated paint kits. Engine Configuration: View the condition of the engines and enable enhanced simulation options such as spark plug fouling and vapour lock. Thranda DynaFeel: Adjust the force required to move each of the control surfaces. Checklists: Interactable checklists for every stage of flight. AviTab support. And much more! Fully functional and comprehensive IFR-capable avionics fit including: KMA 20 audio selector unit Fully featured X-Plane-native GNS530 (supports procedures out of the box, and supports Navigraph and Aerosoft custom nav databases) KX 175B COM 2 / NAV 2 radio KN 62 DME unit which can display information from NAV 1 or NAV 2 Autocontrol IIIB autopilot unit with navigation, heading and roll hold (hidden autopilot altitude hold system included for convenience) KT 76A transponder unit KR 85 ADF unit Support for RealityXP GTN750 (sold separately, Windows only) Interactive logbook panel for logging your flight details (X-Plane native) Yoke-mounted flight timer/clock Independently operated left and right (standby) altimeter GoodWay compatible Ability to change barometric units from InHG to MB in altimeter adjustment Pop-up autopilot window Animated toe brakes Functional throttle quadrant tensioning system Radio knob animations routed through plug-in logic, for optimum movement fidelity and sound synchronisation AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS Custom-coded fuel system, including the option of automatic fuel tank switching for use on those long distance cross-country flights (this option is remembered for future flights) 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 system with intricate retraction animation, slow/fast tyre rotation animation (blurry when rotating fast), precise shock absorber animation with multiple linkages animated accurately, and wheel chocks and tie-downs Functioning alternate air and static source controls Fully implemented back-up landing gear system Dedicated interactive engine EFB page for 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 EFB warnings 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 navigation light / radio light rheostat Functional electric trim control on yoke (requires electric trim button to be pushed) Functional ELT which is automatically triggered above 4.6 G Simulated fan and vent system with realistic blower sounds (linked to circuit breaker logic and electrical system for realism) Custom external light logic with custom strobe light pattern and custom light halos for added realism Requirements X-Plane 12 (not for XP11) Windows, Mac, or Linux 8 GB+ VRAM Recommended Download Size: 2.1 GB Current version: 1.0 (October 31st, 2024) Discount info: Customers who own the PA-28R TURBO ARROW III / IV XP11 can get this new XP12 version for 10% off. Discount will automatically be applied at checkout. Review System Specifications Windows 11, AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D, 32GB DDR5 RAM, RTX 3070Ti ________________________ Aircraft Review by DrishalMAC2 21st December 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). flyguy15785 and Kiwiflyer 1 1 Quote
flyguy15785 Posted January 4 Report Posted January 4 Excellent post. Is there any chance of the simcodr REP being updated for the XP12 version of this aircraft? Cheers. DrishalMAC2 1 Quote
DrishalMAC2 Posted January 7 Report Posted January 7 On 1/4/2025 at 8:57 PM, flyguy15785 said: Excellent post. Is there any chance of the simcodr REP being updated for the XP12 version of this aircraft? Cheers. Unfortunately I have no information regarding the REP for this aircraft but I do hope they update it Quote
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