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Behind the Screen : May 2023 Not many review sites expose their inner workings. But I believe (as I have since my first reviews), that to go forward in any concept (in this case an Aircraft Simulator) that it is a learning process. To see how we do and deal with day to day involvement with the simulator, you can then make choices with your interaction with your own simulator. Yes I spend a lot of time per week doing X-Plane simulation... interaction means accessing new product, keeping the simulator in a good working order (filing and updates), which oddly can be quite time consuming, learning new concepts relating to the simulator, and also learning the details of the aircraft that are being simulated. I went through that review process last month. But on average I am using X-Plane around seven hours a day for six days a week in one capacity or another, which adds up to 42 hours a week, that is a lot of time to be in a simulator, but weirdly I don't yet find it boring or uninteresting, in fact quite the opposite. So yes the point here with BtheS and most importantly in the reviews is that as a user you can take away information we have learnt and passed on to you, again I believe that yes you want to know the latest information on a new or updated/upgrade releases. But more importantly you take away details that can short cut the learning curve, to getting to the core of the flying or interacting more quickly with the simulator, and most importantly the aircraft. Yes I admit I do tutorials as part of the review process, I call them "Short Cuts", or the way that you can follow the process to learn how it works in an edited form. For example the release of the FlyJSim Q4XP (Dash Q400) had a brand new style of FMS (Flight Management System) called UNS-1Ew Flight Management System. The concept of the FMS (or user layout) is quite different (in using numbered lines) to program the FMS with Flight (Route) details and Performance elements, plus the added elements that are important like X-FILL or Crossfill between the left and right FMS consoles. It is quite deep in interaction information. But here X-PlaneReviews we showed you how to programme the UNS-1 in an edited version. Obviously you can download the official Universal UNS-1 manual and go down in deeper into the "nic nacks" of the UNS-1 system, but to get you airborne and flying the Q4XP as soon as possible, then that tutorial is right there for you to digest. Yes I admit the tutorial adds on a fair bit of length to the review, should the tutorial section even be in a review, and not be set out as a separate tutorial? I will answer that aspect in that putting the tutorial within the review ACTUALLY it keeps it in context with that aircraft. And in most cases I refer to an older review with inserted tutorials if required from another review. As it also keeps the timeline correct of when in X-Plane that new technology or feature was released for the Simulator. I myself will go back to usually the original release review, to reflect the way to trigger my skills. These are again as mentioned last month my "Oh yes" I remember that aspect now, so it is also a stored information bank to access anytime I want to do an update/upgrade review and get my head back into that particular aircraft's cockpit and idiosyncratic natures. So it can take time to not only review (assess) a new aircraft, but to context it's new features and even it's impact on the X-Plane Simulator. Yes some releases are extremely exciting, as they do push the boundaries forward, introduce new ideas and features in to the simulator. These elements have to be analyzed and then explained to yourselves of why they are important, and the relevancy to X-Plane and the Simulator as a whole. These aspects are even more important when you have a generational change, like the period we are in now in X-Plane moving from the older (but mature) X-Plane 11 to the more dynamic X-Plane 12. Time is your biggest factor. Yes it would be wonderful to spend loads of time "Deep Diving" into aircraft systems and performance, but you simply don't have that precious time, as there is always a deadline to adhere to. Another point is that with reviews you can't cover absolutely everything in every aircraft, every single time in each review. We cover or focus mainly on the changes and features of the release, but as some aircraft are totally and noticeable highly detailed, so how do you cover all those elements without getting boring. Worse is that "feature escalation", means a lot of new features and details to cover. Go back only five years, and then look at the releases today to notice the compounding differences between aircraft releases. Reviews were mostly three day affairs, but today a week or even two is required to cover all the detailed points on a high quality, feature rich release. Which brings us to May... On average in X-Plane you can expect a major release (meaning completely new) about every two months, or about seven major releases a year, the rest are updates and upgrades to currently released aircraft. (at this point in time there are an abundunce of X-Plane 12 conversions). So you might get two in one month, then nothing for three (Usually around the Northern Summer period), then multiple releases one after the other in a few weeks in the Northern Fall period. Obviously this is the nature of the X-Plane beast. The big release for May 2023 was the E-Jets Family from X-Crafts. This was a significant release because in the state of play, this was in reality the first new release for X-Plane 12. Your going to shake your head there... as yes, as there already has been loads of committed official X-Plane 12 only configured aircraft released in the months prior. But in reality most had been developed in X-Plane 11 ready for an X-Plane 12 release, the X-Craft's E-Jet is totally an X-Plane 12 creature, it feels that way and the aircraft flies that way as well, so it was a significant release, an important one as it lays down the groundwork of what most major future X-Plane 12 releases will respond to. I was lucky to get into the "beta" development before release, the bugs were there, but nothing in relation to anything that would affect the review (hardware compatibilities), overall it was a masterful Simulation from some gifted developers. The X-Crafts E-Jet family has a huge list of features, the Intricate detail was noted as well, and to top it all off the aircraft had a brand new FMS system that needed explaining, and "yes" it would need a tutorial on how to use it. It was to be a big, if huge review with a lot of areas to cover. But that was okay, as I had one thing on my side... time, or about 10 days. I did the early flight tests when also working out the new FMS, then started the review, three days in and I was at the tutorial point of explaining the FMS system. This area needs a clear head and focus, ultimate focus, but I still had tons of time (a week to the release date). Then I got a tickle in my throat, then it turned slightly raw, the next day I had a full blown Flu... I had worked carefully through all the covid pandemic, but out of simply nowhere I was suddenly really sick, bleary eyed in bed sick... one day, two days, three days... four days? Suddenly my world was collapsing, I had the most intricate part of the review to do and I couldn't even focus on my iPhone.... hell? On the fifth day I went to the desk, I worked through the tutorial, I felt totally awful, but I got it done. Now I was faced with only two days until the release and with only half the review ready? I still felt awful but worked on, time had now been squeezed down to nothing, still tons to do and cover to create the review, but you work on, I missed the release date "damn", but got the review completed late the next day, and then collapsed. (Sorry it was late). Aircraft Review : E-Jets Family by X-Crafts The above timeline shows your life can go from complete perfection to hell in only a day, the most important release of the year and I was completely down and out for the count, yes I was annoyed then, still get annoyed even now, but it's life and there are simply some things you just can't control. A week later I took a reluctant week off the review desk to have a complete break and recover, it's a bad Flu, around here it is everywhere, but that damn Flu completely dominated (ruined) my month of May... and yes I am finally feeling normal again. "The best-laid plans of mice and men often go awry", Robert Burns Coming up in June is the FlightSimExpo from Houston June 23rd-25th 2023. Laminar Research will hold a booth at the Expo, but no Seminar is currently booked. There will be no Expo analysis, but X-PlaneReviews will be doing an overview of X-Plane 12 from it's early beta release to it's present situation as displayed at the Expo, so look out for that. X-Plane is also currently very buzzy, and coming into the Northern Summer season that is a really good thing. Mostly we are having a lot of X-Plane 12 conversions released, but unusually also lot of new aircraft being released from developers as well. Notable also is the now huge selection of aircraft already X-Plane 12 configured, so there is a lot of choices already of what to fly in the new simulator version... happy times! See you all next month Stephen Dutton 1st June 2023 Copyright©2023 X-Plane Reviews

You are confused with a model from another designer. Thranda never had an xp11 model.

Scenery Review: PAEN - Kenai Municipal Airport, Alaska by Northern Sky Studio By Dominic Smith Introduction Welcome to another scenery review, this time we're delving into Northern Sky Studio's rendition of Kenai Municipal Airport. Promising a meticulously detailed virtual expedition to the eastern shoreline of Alaska's Kenai Peninsula, this package endeavours to recreate an essential linchpin in the global aviation network. In the case of Kenai Municipal Airport, it's a mix of straightforward simplicity and robust functionality that sets it apart, much like many Alaskan locales. With this scenery package, the spotlight isn't solely on the meticulously rendered structures or runway textures, but also on the subtle elements of the airport's surroundings. By employing detailed orthophoto imagery, the developers aim to provide a genuine and engaging representation of the region in X-Plane. Harnessing the capabilities of X-Plane 12, Northern Sky Studio aims to create an experience that mirrors reality. However, the crucial question as always is whether it fulfils these lofty aims. With that said, let’s see how it fared… Installation & Documentation Once purchased, you are given the option to download two versions of the scenery - one suitable for X-Plane 11 and another for X-Plane 12. In this review, I'll focus on the X-Plane 12 iteration. The download size is quite hefty, hitting the scales at around 2GB. For a scenery pack of this size, especially for an airport like Kenai, this is quite a substantial download. The installation was a straightforward affair. After downloading the package and unzipping the files, I only needed to place the "PAEN_Northern_Sky_Studio" folder into my Custom Scenery directory. However, the documentation that accompanied the scenery pack was somewhat sparse. It did include a helpful link to download orthophoto scenery for the surrounding area, which offered to provide decent image quality (more on this later). However, for those seeking a higher resolution solution, you can add your own orthophotos by using Ortho4XP. The documentation also provided some insights into the real-life Kenai Municipal Airport and a changelog, but it didn't supply any airport charts or additional information. Granted, these details can be sourced online, but their inclusion in the documentation would have contributed to a more convenient user experience. This could be an area for potential enhancement in future updates from the developers. First Impressions Looking down upon Kenai Municipal Airport, I noticed the included photographic overlay immediately. The imagery was of high quality, adding a layer of realism that lent a positive start to my overall impression of the scenery. A quick inspection of the main runway hinted at an encouraging level of detail and authenticity, something I planned to investigate further later. The precision in the placement of airport buildings was noticeable, with each structure carefully situated to mirror its real-life counterpart. The strategic positioning of the surrounding forests and the mapping of roads leading to and away from the airport were other notable features. Their seamless integration with the ortho scenery contributed to a sense of environmental coherence. Ground Level Returning to terra firma, the custom 10m mesh offered in this package emerges as one of its standout features. Compared to the lower quality mesh that typically comes with X-Plane, this is an upgrade that noticeably enhances the terrain. It transforms a generally flat surface into one with subtle elevations and depressions, significantly boosting the authenticity and realism of the airport and its environment. However, it's worth noting the abundant grass present in the scenery, that whilst visually impressive, might affect framerates for users with less powerful systems. Moving to the runway textures, they certainly deserve a special mention due to their excellent quality and detailed representation. Elements such as cracks, dirt, and rubber marks were meticulously added, contributing to the sense of authenticity. The integration of these textures with the provided orthophoto is seamlessly executed, devoid of any abrupt transitions, a testament to the level of skill invested in this scenery. Signage The signage within the scenery delivers a mixed bag, as some elements, especially those found on the runway and taxiway ground textures, have been well-executed. The markings are clear, faithfully mirroring real-world airport signage. On the other hand, there are some areas that could use a little more polish. For instance, the signs sprinkled around the airport become noticeably fuzzy when examined up close. While this detail doesn't significantly undermine the overall quality of the scenery, it becomes apparent to those who enjoy delving into the finer points of scenery exploration. The signage is by no means substandard, but a bit of extra refinement would certainly align it better with the high standards demonstrated by the rest of the scenery package. Main Entrance & Carpark Those with a fondness for striking airport entrances will likely find Kenai Municipal Airport appealing. As your virtual self approaches the main entrance, a tastefully designed, convincingly authentic airport sign greets you. A noteworthy point of interest here is the well-executed T33 "Shooting Star" aircraft, displayed prominently on its stand. This addition considerably bolsters the realism and grandeur of your virtual arrival at the terminal building. Transitioning beyond these points of interest, you'll find a rather substantial carpark, populated with numerous parked vehicles. Although these appear to be default X-Plane models, they fulfil their role effectively. Therefore, whether embarking on a virtual long-distance journey or a brief regional hop, the main entrance and carpark at Kenai Municipal Airport aim to provide a welcoming and immersive start to your journey. Outbuildings & Clutter Kenai Municipal Airport is brought to life by a diverse array of outbuildings and miscellaneous objects, strategically placed to mimic the environment of an authentic airport. An assortment of GA aircraft are cleverly situated throughout their respective parking areas, contributing to the lively atmosphere of the airport. Standout structures, such as the Alaskan Civil Air Patrol building, the wooden control tower, and the North Air building, are among the well-crafted features present in the scenery. The airport grounds boast high-quality textures exhibiting realistic weathering effects, enhancing the overall immersive experience. The environment is punctuated by various ground equipment and vehicles, including UPS trucks, cones, trailers, and rubbish trucks (dumpsters for my overseas friends). Another distinctive feature is a pair of weathered aircraft floats, which again, adds to the authenticity. An array of work vehicles such as diggers, bulldozers, and steamrollers further add to the busy, working ambience of the airport. The addition of a fire station, equipped with its respective vehicles, presents another layer of realism to the airport's portrayal. Airport Terminal Exterior The crown jewel of this scenery undoubtedly has to be the main terminal building as it’s one of the best I have seen in X-Plane 12. This striking recreation is a testament to the developers' skill and the remarkable attention to detail that has gone into its modelling. The exterior boasts superior texturing and 3D modelling, meticulously accounting for even the smallest features. These include benches, waste bins, air conditioning units, tiny satellite dishes, and power terminals affixed to the walls, and last but not least, and perhaps the most important item of all (for a cyclist anyway), a bike rack! The developers have utilized Physically Based Rendering (PBR) in their texturing approach, which is especially noticeable when sunlight illuminates the airport structures at various times throughout the day. The window design is worth special mention, as modelling realistic glass in a virtual environment can be challenging, but in this case, the developers have executed it successfully. In contrast to the earlier-mentioned airport signage, the signs and lettering on the airport terminal are of exceptional quality, remaining sharp and legible even when viewed up close. All these elements come together to create an impressively realistic and intricately detailed exterior that truly embodies the spirit of the airport terminal. Airport Terminal Interior Stepping inside the terminal building, one is immediately struck by the exceptional attention to detail that seamlessly extends from the exterior into the interior. My eyes were first drawn to an array of meticulously labelled check-in desks, each representing its specific airline. The variety of logos adds a delightful layer of authenticity to the environment and was a feature that I found particularly pleasing. A noteworthy feature is the inclusion of 3D human figures. The presence of people is essential to capture the hustle and bustle of a thriving airport, and their absence would have significantly detracted from the overall impact, regardless of how impressive the other details might be. As I explored the terminal, with the curiosity of a first-time traveller, I was captivated by the meticulous attention to detail. This was evident in features like a precisely modelled bench, the baggage conveyor belt, large posters, and a map highlighting the local attractions. The incredible quality of the floor textures also stood out. It might seem like a minor detail, but the immaculate sheen of the floor, even down to the reflections it cast, was truly remarkable, demonstrating the developer's commitment to detail. Capping off my virtual tour of the terminal interior, I had a surprising encounter with a rather scary bear (secretly modelled on my mother-in-law)! This certainly added a unique twist to my terminal experience. All things considered, the interior of the airport terminal offers an exceptional level of detail, contributing to a truly immersive X-Plane experience. Seaplane Landing Area Kenai Municipal Airport also hosts a dedicated seaplane landing area, identified as 2W/20W. This addition, although not particularly detailed, brings with it a sense of diversity and caters to the interests of seaplane enthusiasts. The custom 10m mesh is subtly showcased here, replacing the usual flat mesh with slight banking, reflecting the physical features of many real-world seaplane landing areas. Night Lighting As the sun dipped below the horizon at Kenai Municipal Airport, a new spectrum of features came to life. Starting on the runway, the lighting was executed brilliantly, with dynamic illumination enhancing the realism of the runway signs. The carpark was also touched by the same dynamic lighting, lending it a remarkably realistic look appropriate for the nighttime setting. The approach to the main terminal was elegantly illuminated, with soft lighting effects offering a warm welcome to arriving virtual passengers. Moving inside, the interior lighting of the main terminal was executed with the utmost finesse. It's evident that the developers have taken care to align the interior lighting effects with the terminal's overall ambience, fostering a captivating night-time experience. However, it's worth noting that my system experienced a significant framerate drop whilst exploring the scenery at night. While a smooth 35fps was observed during the daytime within the terminal, this figure plummeted to around 14fps at night. While this may be more of a general X-Plane issue rather than a specific problem with the scenery, it's an aspect that users with similar systems might want to keep in mind. Wider Area Armed with the optional orthophoto scenery tiles for the surrounding area, I set out to evaluate their quality. Although I could have created my own tiles with Ortho4XP, positive feedback about the provided tiles persuaded me to use them instead. For those who revel in bush flying, these expanded scenery additions are a worthwhile consideration, as they can substantially enrich your flight simulation experience. However, it's important to remember that these optional tiles can be quite large. For instance, the downloadable tile for the area surrounding the airport alone clocked in at a sizable 3.2GB! Despite its size, the enhanced detail it provides more than justifies the storage space it occupies. Conclusion Upon completing a thorough exploration of Kenai Municipal, it's undeniable that Northern Sky Studio has delivered an outstanding creation. This package, designed for both X-Plane 11 and 12, presents an admirably detailed representation of the real Kenai Municipal Airport. The top-notch orthophoto imagery, the accurate placement of buildings, and the faithful reproduction of the broader landscape, all combine to offer an immersive flight simulation experience. The standout feature of this package has to be the main terminal building, meticulously recreated with exceptional detail and realism. From its exterior textures to its interior design, every element conveys authenticity. The lighting effects within the terminal and across the broader airport environment further enrich the experience, although some users may experience a decrease in framerates during night-time scenarios. The seaplane landing area is a distinctive inclusion that separates this package from many others, while the enhanced 10-meter mesh and the exceptional quality of the runway textures speak to the painstaking attention to detail that's been invested in the development of this scenery package. The provision for optional orthophoto scenery tiles for the wider area is a noteworthy addition, offering bush-flying enthusiasts an extended area of exploration. While the package boasts numerous highlights, there are a few aspects that could benefit from further refinement. For instance, the clarity of signage, particularly when scrutinized up close, could be improved. More detailed documentation, including charts and key information, would provide users with a more comprehensive guide. Additionally, the marked dip in frame rates during night-time scenarios could be an issue for those using less powerful systems. Yet, these points are minor considerations within the broader context of the overall quality and immersion of the package In conclusion, Northern Sky Studio's Kenai Municipal is a valuable addition to any X-Plane user's repertoire. Despite a few minor setbacks, its overall quality, meticulous attention to detail, and the immersive environment it creates make it a must-have for anyone pursuing an authentic Alaskan X-Plane experience. ________________________ PAEN - Kenai Municipal Airport by Northern Sky Studio is now available from the X-Plane.Org Store here: PAEN - Kenai Municipal Airport Priced at US$14.95 Features Includes both X-Plane 12 and X-Plane 11 versions The most detailed replica of airport buildings and vehicles High-resolution ground textures / Custom runway textures High-resolution building textures Compatible with all X-Plane 11 and 12 features Custom surroundings All materials created for full PBR Shading and occlusion (texture baking) effects on all airport buildings Custom orthophoto for the airport and surrounding areas Excellent performance Realistic glass reflections World Traffic compatible Custom mesh for the airport area (Ortho4XP) Compatible with a default mesh Requirements X-Plane 12 or X-Plane 11 Windows, Mac, or Linux 4 GB VRAM Minimum - 8 GB+ VRAM Recommended Download Size: 2.1 GB Current version: 1.1 (April 18th, 2023) Review System Specifications Intel i5 10400 – 32GB RAM - Nvidia Asus RTX 3060 – Windows 10 Home 64 Bit __________________________________ Scenery Review by Dominic Smith 31st May 2023 Copyright©2023: 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).

Scenery Enhancement: X-Oil Rigs Vol 1, Vol 2, and X-OilShips Vol 1 By Stuart McGregor This review, while concise, provides an intriguing look into three related X-Plane add-ons: X-Oil Rigs Vol 1, Vol 2, and X-OilShips Vol 1. These add-ons, created by the Skytitude development team, can be conveniently located at the X-Plane.Org Store. Intended as supplementary or replacement packs for the default X-Plane oil rigs, these add-ons specifically appeal to helicopter enthusiasts. The Oil Ships add-on also presents an alternative to the default moving X-Plane aircraft carrier and frigate. For those, like me, who appreciate rotary-wing aircraft, these add-ons offer a significant enhancement to the often-sparse marine environment. Retailing for $16.90, they are compatible with both X-Plane 11 and 12, with this review focusing on their usage in the latter version. When it comes to downloading, the oil rigs offer a single option, while for the ships, both X-Plane 11 and 12 options are available, so choose simply according to your version of X-Plane. The downloaded content comprises files in a single folder along with a brief text file outlining installation instructions. The installation process is straightforward: simply drag and drop the content into your Custom Scenery folder. If you download both volumes of oil rigs, they are designed to work in tandem, enriching areas with multiple rigs. The oil ships, on the other hand, come with three livery options for the two vessels. Instructions for changing liveries are outlined in the included text file – it's as simple as moving a few files. Overall, it's a user-friendly process. The installation process doesn't warrant much more discussion; it's as simple and streamlined as can be. However, it is worth noting that if you opt for all three add-ons, the cumulative download size comes to slightly under 600MB, with individual files varying between 130 and 260 MB. My experience downloading and installing was smooth and hassle-free. The product images and descriptions available on the org store effectively highlight the top-notch, high-resolution PBR texturing and incredibly intricate object design. This includes a range of variants and splendid night lighting, aspects that I'll delve into further along in the review. But how do these details translate in actual usage? Well, if you're keen to dive in and explore the objects without investing too much effort in finding them during a flight, X-Plane makes it easy for you. Just navigate to the Flight Configuration menu, select Special Starts, and you can directly approach Carrier, Frigate, Small, and Large Oil platforms. This feature enables a quick and convenient inspection of these new objects. Alternatively, you could use the map to select one of the aforementioned approaches. If you're as eager as I was to test these additions, these shortcuts provide an efficient way to do so. The craftsmanship of all the models is commendable, and the texturing certainly captivated me. As someone who has designed similar objects in the past (The Handy Object Library), I'm reasonably well positioned to appreciate the quality on offer here, observable both during daylight and nighttime hours. The shadowing effects and the aged look of the textures during daylight convincingly simulate the essence of real-life versions. The meticulous application of high-resolution PBR texturing and detailed object design truly shines when cloaked by nightfall. These maritime titans, bathed in a warm glow, possess a certain allure as their prominent features emerge from the darkness. However, this isn't merely about aesthetic appeal; the lighting also fulfils a critical practical function. For those bold enough to embark on night flights, the strategically positioned lights mirror the actual challenges confronted by real-life maritime pilots. This results in a visually stunning spectacle that enhances the immersion and excitement of navigating the marine world in X-Plane. The oil rig add-ons come in four distinct structural variants, spanning from a compact mono-tower to larger FPS-type installations. Each variant is exquisitely modelled and textured, demonstrating a high level of attention to detail. On the seafaring end, the add-ons include a traditional oil tanker and an LNG carrier, and as touched on earlier, there's an option to customize the ship liveries, adding a layer of personalization to the experience. Admittedly, I encountered some difficulty locating the Volume 2 oil rig objects occasionally - a situation possibly influenced by my choice of flight paths. Nevertheless, after a fair bit of exploration, I was able to discover them. One minor point of potential improvement revolves around the lack of animation on these objects. On the default oil rigs, I believe the cranes are animated, yet, in a real-world landing scenario, the pilot and Helicopter Landing Officer would likely prefer cranes to be stationary with booms stowed. So, the current "default" setup might be a more realistic depiction of what happens in real life. This observation is indeed minor and does not compromise the overall flying enjoyment, however, attempting to land on these helidecks poses enough challenges without the addition of moving cranes. In my view, it would be a welcome addition to have a few 3D characters dispersed across the various objects. The structures are certainly large enough, and this would boost the realism of the scene, plus it's somewhat eerie to be "alone" at these locations, day or night, with no signs of life around. While not a major concern, it's something that could be considered for a future update. That being said, these objects certainly serve as a fantastic enhancement to both X-Plane 11 and 12, and as indicated in the product documentation, I noticed no discernible impact on my framerates, which was a pleasant surprise. This might just be the motivation I need to start upgrading some of my own similar objects! At night, particularly with the ships, the meticulous lighting on these structures truly comes to life, offering a vividly detailed and atmospheric view that dramatically elevates the overall experience. The sight is, quite literally, a shining example of the rich environment that these add-ons provide. Having thoroughly explored all three add-ons, I really appreciate the additional level of detail and enjoyment they provide, and I firmly believe that for helicopter enthusiasts, these sets present a valuable addition to the X-Plane world. Whether you possess one, two, or all three, I am convinced you won't face disappointment if you relish piloting helicopters in the maritime realm. They provide an excellent platform for refining your take-off and landing skills to your heart's content. There's a unique intensity that comes with hovering over the ocean from a mere 100ft that can truly sharpen one's focus, and as such, I tip my hat to real-life pilots who navigate these conditions daily, given the extremely limited room for manoeuvre. I'm simply relieved that X-Plane conveniently includes a reset button! __________________________________ X-OilShips Vol. 1 by Skytitude is now available from the X-Plane.Org Store here: X-OilShips Vol. 1 Price at time of writing US$16.90 X-OilRigs Vol 1 by Skytitude is now available from the X-Plane.Org Store here: X-OilRigs Vol 1 Price at time of writing US$16.90 X-OilRigs Vol 2 by Skytitude is now available from the X-Plane.Org Store here: X-OilRigs Vol 2 Price at time of writing US$16.90 X-OilShips Vol. 1 Features: High Quality Gas Tanker and Oil Tanker Vessels Objects 6 Different Livery Variations High Resolution Materials with PBR effects Realistic Night Lighting Highly Optimized for saving fps X-Plane 12 and X-Plane 11 versions X-OilShips Vol. 1 Requirements: X-Plane 12 and X-Plane 11 Windows, Mac, or Linux Current version: 1.0 (March 30th, 2023) Download Size: 260 MB X-OilRigs Vol 1 Features: High Quality Offshore Oil Rigs 3D Model High Quality Offshore Oil Towers 3D Model Two Color Liveries for each type of platforms Excellent Physical Based Rendering Effect Gorgeous Night Lighting Highly Optimized X-OilRigs Vol 1 Requirements: X-Plane 12 or X-Plane 11 Windows, Mac, or Linux Current version: 1.10 (February 21st, 2023) Download Size: 207 MB X-OilRigs Vol 2 Features: X-Plane 12 and X-Plane 11 Windows, Mac, or Linux Current version: 1.10 (Feb 21st, 2023) Download Size: 130 MB X-OilRigs Vol 2 Requirements: Insane quality of Oil Platforms 3D Mesh Awesome 4k resolution textures with PBR effects Gorgeous Night Lighting Highly Optimized for saving FPS Compatible and can be used together with X-OilRigs Vol. 1 Originally made for X-Plane 12, working fine with X-Plane 11 Review System Specifications: Windows 10 64 Bit CPU Intel i9-9900k 64GB RAM Nvidia RTX 2080 Ti Oculus Rift S Scenery Review by Stuart McGregor 28th May 2023 Copyright©2023: 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)

Scenery Review: KPVC - Provincetown Municipal Scenic Scenery for X-Plane 12 By Dominic Smith Introduction The realm of X-Plane is continually growing, and the latest addition to its expansive landscape is KPVC - Provincetown Municipal, a scenery package which aims to deliver an intricate virtual representation of a remarkable location in New England. Situated at the northernmost tip of Cape Cod, Provincetown is known for its picturesque beaches, prominent landmarks, and rich historical tapestry. These characteristics are woven into the virtual fabric of Provincetown Municipal, where intricate detailing extends from everyday airport objects to the texture of the pavement. Beyond the confines of the airport, the package encompasses notable landmarks such as Race Point Lighthouse, the Lifesaving Station Museum, the stately Pilgrim's Monument, and many other features. To enhance the immersion, elements like local vegetation, accurate road layouts, and the Province Lands Bike Trail have been integrated into the scenery. With the incorporation of XP12’s dynamic weather and seasonal features, this scenery package promises a realistic flight simulation experience...so let's see how it fared! `` Installation Installation of KPVC - Provincetown Municipal was, as is the case with most X-Plane sceneries, extremely straightforward. Once I had downloaded and then extracted the package, it was just a case of placing the main scenery folder into my 'Custom Scenery' directory of X-Plane. It's worth noting however, that while the package doesn't include ortho photos due to differing preferences among users, it is highly recommended to use them for this area, as it allows you to approach the airport over the sand dunes, which significantly enhances the aesthetic appeal of the scenery. For my exploration and testing of the package, I opted to install both simHeaven's X-World America and my own ortho tiles of the area, something the developer highly recommends doing. As with any X-Plane scenery add-on, ensuring the correct scenery load order was present in my scenery_packs.ini, was the final step of the installation process. Documentation The included documentation for the package is concise but informative, consisting of a single PDF. The document, written by Jim “RILockGuy” Wright, provides a wonderful introduction to the airport and the surrounding scenery. Having been impressed by Jim’s freeware sceneries in the past (mentioned several times in the Weekly Digest at the Org), it was great to see this package was created by the same talented individual. Also included in the PDF were airport charts for KPVC, an addition I always appreciate. KPVC Municipal Upon approaching KPVC (by car that is), I was first greeted by the airport sign, standing proudly off to the side of the road. It's a simple detail but well-executed with clear, sharp lettering, which also delivers the enticing message that Boston is only a twenty-minute flight away…something I am ashamed to say, I have still yet to do! As I ventured closer, the airport's main car park came into view, populated by a variety of custom vehicles, and whilst not quite matching the quality of Laminar's default models, they certainly added both a realistic and personal touch to the area. I also noted various signs designating spaces for disabled users and airport staff, a testament to the scenery's attention to detail. The ground textures around the car park were also impressive, with parking restrictions clearly marked for drivers to see, and flying overhead, as if a beacon of hope, was an animated American flag, gracefully swaying in the wind. Shifting my focus to the main terminal building in front of me, it became evident that considerable care had been taken to mimic its real-world counterpart faithfully. A variety of items dotted the vicinity, including benches and an intricate armillary sphere, further enhancing the realism. Being a keen cyclist (for certain warm months of the year), I had to smile when I saw a mountain bike, complete with its very own branded "Schwalbe" tires, now that’s what you call attention to detail! While the textures and modelling of the airport building were generally satisfactory, I felt that the exterior walls could have incorporated some weathering, considering the airport's coastal location. That said, I really appreciated the partially modelled interior at the rear, which is a feature that quite often tends to be overlooked. Adjacent to the main airport building, were several maintenance huts, plus a single aircraft hangar. The texturing and modelling of these followed the same general style and quality as the main building, maintaining a consistent look across the airport grounds. The airport apron and taxiways featured custom ground textures that were visually engaging, with markings indicating restricted areas being neatly displayed. The ground clutter around the airport was abundant and seemingly custom-made: from tires, cones, and a lawnmower to pallets and maintenance vehicles. The only element that seemed to be missing was people! Having cross-referenced the X-Plane rendition with the real airport on Google Maps, I was delighted to see just how well this virtual representation captured the essence of its real-life counterpart. Despite the small room for improvement, the quality and level of detail are a testament to Jim's remarkable skill and dedication. Race Point Beach Transitioning from the central airport complex, my journey led me to the depiction of Race Point Beach within the scenery. This location is characterized by an assortment of elements that, despite the notable absence of virtual beachgoers, work together to create an authentic representation of this popular locale. The beach scene included a detailed parking area, a distinctive beach pavilion (complete with restrooms and showers), the Oversands permit building, the Ranger Station, and lastly, the Lifesaving Station Museum, which when combined, helped create another layer of depth to the package. The modelling and texturing at Race Point Beach were consistent with the standard set by the main airport, fitting seamlessly into the overall scenery. While the texturing worked well in this context, a hint of additional weathering could have further enhanced the realism. As my exploration of Race Point Beach came to a close, a distinct silhouette on the horizon caught my eye…the Race Point Lighthouse, marking my next destination. Race Point Lighthouse Departing the peaceful surroundings of Race Point Beach, I made my way to Race Point Lighthouse, an enduring beacon that has withstood numerous storms over the years. The openness of the location meant that every structure and object was subject to intense scrutiny, a challenge for any developer. Approaching the lighthouse, the weathered textures hinted at its long service and endurance, lending it an authentic, historical touch. The accompanying structures like the oil shed, keeper's house, and whistle house, all displayed details consistent with the rest of the scenery. Supplementary elements, such as split-rail fences and capstans, subtly enhanced the overall environment. What caught my eye, however, were the small details: the partially buried anchor, the wind-responsive turbine, and the solar panels, all hinting at a thoughtful fusion of history and modernity. The lighthouse stood as a definite highlight, its richly weathered textures and meticulous detail creating an immersive focal point in the scenery. While the surrounding structures, crafted with care, seemed slightly less weathered, this detail did little to detract from the overall authenticity of the scene. Indeed, in the context of the sparse coastal landscape, the distinctiveness of the lighthouse and its ancillary buildings created a balanced aesthetic, effectively capturing the spirit of this storied seaside locale. Turning from the lighthouse, I set my sights on another of Provincetown's notable features, the Pilgrim's Monument... Pilgrim's Monument Pilgrim's Monument, located in the heart of Provincetown, is an unmistakable, 250-foot Italian Renaissance-style tower, overlooking the many houses and structures below (thanks in part to X-World America). While the textures weren't photorealistic, they did a perfectly good job of representing this iconic structure. Despite the less detailed approach, the authenticity of the model remained credible, creating a convincing landmark in the virtual landscape. Wood End Lighthouse and Long Point Beach Lighthouse My journey concluded with the Wood End and Long Point Beach lighthouses, both situated south of the airport. True to their real-world counterparts, both lighthouses bore a striking resemblance to each other. Upon closer inspection, their texturing and modelling demonstrated the consistent quality I had come to appreciate throughout the scenery. However, compared to the numerous pictures I had seen on Google Maps, I felt they missed some of the weathered nuances typical of such coastal structures. Whilst the virtual models were commendable, a touch more weathering could have added to their realism. Nonetheless, this was a minor observation, and it didn't diminish the overall quality of these lighthouses, each standing as a detailed and integral part of the scenery. Conclusion I have to say that I thoroughly enjoyed my time exploring KPVC - Provincetown Municipal Scenic Scenery for X-Plane, as it was a truly engaging experience. The picturesque location, with its diverse landscapes and seascapes, allows for a wide variety of flights to be undertaken. The highlight of this scenery is undoubtedly, its numerous detailed areas, which consistently piqued my interest during my journey. From the airport facilities to the beaches, the level of detail is commendable. Likewise, the comprehensive documentation that accompanies the package enhances the overall authenticity and user experience, and despite using a midrange system, I experienced no framerate issues, even when using the recommended ortho tiles and X-World America add-ons. While the overall texture quality was good, some structures could have been more weather-worn to increase the realism in certain areas. Additionally, the lack of human figures was noticeable, which, if included, could have added to the vibrancy of the environment. In summing up, KPVC - Provincetown Municipal Scenic Scenery for X-Plane is a carefully crafted piece that offers a deeply rewarding experience. While there are minor areas for improvement, these don't overshadow the impressive craftsmanship and detailed features of this scenery. It's a standout offering that would be a superb addition to any X-Plane library, delivering a unique and immersive experience whether you're a casual flyer or a seasoned X-Plane enthusiast! ________________________ KPVC - Provincetown Municipal Scenic Scenery by Ocean State Sceneries is now available from the X-Plane.Org Store here: KPVC - Provincetown Municipal Scenic Scenery Priced at US$19.00 Features KVPC Municipal, with attention to the smallest details, like broken bench slats, keypad locks and padlocks, handicap-access buttons, and even scrapes on the pavement from drooping gates. Race Point Beach, featuring the parking area, the beach pavilion with restrooms and showers, the Oversands permit building, the Ranger Station, and the Lifesaving Station Museum. Race Point Lighthouse, an important landmark on the RWY 07 approach, featuring the lighthouse, the oil shed, the keeper’s house, and the whistle house, along with split-rail fences, capstans, a buried anchor, a working wind turbine, and more. Pilgrim’s Monument, located downtown, a 250-foot Italian Renaissance style tower that acts as a prominent visual landmark in the area. Wood End Lighthouse and the Long Point Beach Lighthouse, and all the buoys and skeleton towers listed on the current area NOAA charts, blinking their true-to-life lights in colors and intervals. Local vegetation, roads, signs, and even the Provincelands Bike Path is represented, fully making use of XP12’s weather and seasonal features. Requirements X-Plane 12 Windows, Mac, or Linux 4GB VRAM Minimum - 8 GB+ VRAM Recommended Review System Specifications Intel i5 10400 – 32GB RAM - Nvidia Asus RTX 3060 – Windows 10 Home 64 Bit __________________________________ Scenery Review by Dominic Smith 25th May 2023 Copyright©2023: 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).

X-PlaneReviews : Traveling and Away There is never a good time to have a break in X-Plane because it is always 24/7 in something coming along, and with all the new releases and updates relating to X-Plane 12. But I will be away for a week from today until Monday 29th May 2023 in taking in some fresh air and traveling. The site however will not be completely without content as there are some really great release reviews all lined up for you to read and explore and there is some really great stuff coming... So still check in regularly as you usually do and catch up on those great releases... Thanks everyone for your commitment to X-PlaneReviews and see you all again next week. Stephen Dutton

Enjoy your well-desreved break Stephen, and many thanks for all your contributions to our XP community. Looking forward to your future reviews.

Aircraft Review : Cessna T337G Pressurized Skymaster by Skytouch The Cessna 337 Series is well renowned, not for that it is a high-wing Cessna, but for it's odd push-pull configuration, in that it has a combination of forward-mounted tractor (pull) propeller, and backward-mounted (pusher) propeller. In the Cessna 377's case it was two Continental IO-360-C air-cooled flat-six piston engines, 210 hp (160 kW) each, producing a combined 420hp, plus the unique "Twin-Boom" tail arrangement to accommodate the rear (pusher) engine/propeller. Basically the 337 was a standard Cessna forward fuselage, but with a totally different concept at the rear. Clever, a twin-engined aircraft in a linear configuration, but the aircraft was highly regarded for tactical operations, say Fire Fighting and Search and Rescue, the Cessna O-2 Skymaster (nicknamed "Oscar Deuce") was the military version used for forward air control (FAC) and psychological operations (PSYOPS), again also a primary aircraft for noted reconnaissance, observation (e.g. artillery spotting), border patrol and fishery protection roles. So the aircraft is a unique stable platform with some very distinctive tasks, this made it very popular and altogether 2,993 variants were built between 1963–1982. Hold on, "haven't we already done a Cessna 337 review already this year?". Well yes X-PlaneReviews has done another 337 review, as earlier in 2023, as Thranda Design released their Cessna 337F Skymaster. So why another one? Besides the usual X-Plane, when one comes out, then so does another in the simulator's idiosyncratic way, there is also a significant differences between the two aircraft, this is the "G" model, not the Thranda "F" model, and there are big performance differences between the two aircraft. The earlier "F" had the IO-360-C Engine (210 HP), were as this "G" model has the TSIO-360-H Engine, Turbocharged and being a Pressurized 337 version, it was also up-rated to 225 HP. Another point to make early is that the High-Quality Thranda is US$10 more than this T337G, of which again the Thranda is low priced for the amount of detail and features you get with that aircraft, this Skytouch T337G is a more simpler aircraft in every area, but it is still a nice Cessna 337 for around the sub-$30 category. First impressions are very favorable, "This is nice", remember this is SkyTouch's first payware developer release, so for a first time effort it is all very splendid. More Low-Def than Hi-Def, but the work here is very good. Panels are well represented, as is the NRM highlights and appendage, rivet, screw is visually very well accomplished, cockpit/cabin glass is also well done, shaped and nicely tinted. Wing and detail is also nice, the cambered detailing of the wing tips, that defines the chord is there but not as pronounced as the Thranda... however the detail and shape is good, there are the black simulated "Icing Boots" (required for high altitudes), but no blank leading edge option. The 337 has a split Flap system around the Twin-Booms, and an inner and outer flap. The detail is very good, with the correct aerodynamic panels surrounding the edges of the flaps, not as so beautifully done as the Thranda, but still worthy here. The roof mounted twin VHF roof aerials are distinctive on the C337, as is the large cooling inlet for the buried rear engine. All are nicely represented, but there is no modeled rear engine fuel cap? Small details but important. The twin-booms support the very wide large central horizontal stabiliser, which is huge, with built in elevator and trim tab. Each boom has each internal left and right rudder cables and the right hand boom carries the trim cable, the left boom the elevator cable. I have to be honest in that I'm not at all thrilled at the design of the twin-rudders... as they don't fit correctly, as there is a wide gap at the lower point, but even in the movement they show they are both not correctly applied to the tail? How could you get that so wrong? The lower tail (plastic) module is shown, but not the same upper tail tip plastic module? Outwardly the landing gear is a simple arrangement, most of the complex mechanism is hidden behind the panels, the nose gear rotates sideways on retraction, and the rear spindly legs also have to contort to fit in the rear bays. A lot of owners take the rear gear doors off, as maintenance wise they are a pain. But the detail of the gear is very good here, with nicely detailed wheel hubs and tyres. Note the brake cable along the arm. The required vortex generators, to create a smoother rear (breakaway) airflow from the aircraft with the powered propeller above are also present. From the model 377F the aircraft had the split airstair entry door, smaller rear side windows. This complies here, but the lower door animation is locked in with the upper door animation, which is a wasted feature. The split door arrangement was done so the observer could look out of the upper part of the aircraft in flight, even throw items out of the aircraft in say a search and rescue task, but that feature can't be done here? They are both open or closed together... ... the small rear right side luggage hatch is missing as well. Look through the door and it is a nice cabin. The 337 cabin is all one big high ceiling box, with that second engine mounted on the rear of the fuselage, the cabin is known to be noisy as well, with the same proximate installation. Seats are basic, meaning old fashioned by today's standards with not much realistic detail, so there is not much realism in the design or colouring, but they match the cabin decor design, again an off brown. Instrument Panel is excellent with a light grey background, and small black highlights... but not the two-tone or wood lower. The Yokes are the square "Beefy" style, and both (not individually) can be hidden, by pressing the shaft. Lower left is the Electrical panel, note the lower "Cabin Pressure" gauges and settings knob. Twin-engine (front and rear) starter switches and "Cowl Flaps", with AP (Autopilot) panel lower. Central left is the petite gear lever and the large pitch trim wheel. Right lower are the Flaps "UP-⅓-⅔-FULL". Cabin Temp, Heater Temp and defrost, on the far right lower is an opening cubby box, with your (AviTab) tablet inside. Above is the ADF panel. The AviTab tablet is small, but very well done in being set on the center of the Yoke on a frame (AviTab plugin is required). Instruments are clear, consists of main centre the "Standard Six" layout, Airspeed, Horizonal Horizon, Altitude... top row. Turn Coordinator, Heading Indicator, V/S (Vertical Speed)... lower row. Far left OAT/VOLT dial, and right VOR NAV 1, VOR NAV 2 and ADF Pointer. Two areas on the instrument panel are standard 337... the excellent twin engine gauges with Manifold Pressure and RPM. A Fuel Flow (FF) and EGT (Exhaust Gas Temperature). The highlight on this side is the engine dials that show (top row) fuel gauges (two tanks, 46 GAL each), OIL pressure. (lower row) CYL head temp, and OIL temperatures. Other dials cover SUCTION, Outside Air Temperature and a large spare Altimeter. Avionics stack consists of; standard Radio is based on the Bendix/King KMA 28 TSO radio (but not the official unit). Then both a GNS 530 (upper) and GNS 430 (lower) and again are not authentic (but with Laminar pop-outs), then a KX 165 COM2/NAV2 radio and bottom is a KT-76C Transponder. Central is the six lever; THROTTLE, PROP and MIXTURE pedestal, which is large and basic in design, with a large yaw (Rudder) trim wheel set below. Far lower is the Autopilot, button control panel, the AP design here is quite basic and far unlike the lovely green glowing version you had the Carenado 337. Note on the far (right wall are the "Door Seal" switches, there are two "Dump" (air) levers right of the pedestal. Left wall has the (non-working) Circuit Breaker (fuses) panel, but the avionics power switch is on here. Side window opens... ... on the roof are the two main fuel tank switches, and the large window shades work. I'm not going to hide the fact that there are holes all over the cockpit, you can see sky behind the instrument panel and around the doors, gaps around the avionics? small details but they count. Menu The menu is a small three tab affair, activated by the left lower screen tab... the three configurations are; CONFIG (Configuration), WEIGHT and SETTINGS. CONFIG - You can set "Covers & Chocks" in a window shade, chocks and engine (front and rear) covers. But you can't separate any of the elements? Second option is a 300 Lb Cargo Pod underside the fuselage. You can select on (or off) all the external lights individually or use the "All External Lights to ON" setting, final setting is a "Cold & Dark Start'. Upper right corner is the "Checklist", it is basic but well done and can be moved around the screen. WEIGHT - On this tab you can set the 337's weights. Both pilot's and two passenger weights can be set, as also can the "Cargo Pod" (If attached) with bags, and behind the seat with parcels. But there are no final weight or CofG (Centre of Gravity) details or graphs, a requirement on any adjustable weight settings. There is also the choice of six different 3D pilots, both male and female and people of colour. SETTINGS - There are four "Settings" selections. Top is "Smooth Animation", for those who have poor framerate capacity. Second are the "Windows Reflections", which you can turn off, but it also turns off the X-Plane 12 rain feature as well. Then there is a general "Engine Sound Volume", and finally the option in either to use Lbs or Kg in weights. _______________ Flying the T377G SkyMaster Roof Fuel tanks on, AUX fuel pumps on and up goes the mixture levers... then you start first the front engine, and then the rear. Sounds are good, I mean really good, the chatter at low-revs then the arrrgh of the power. And you can easily differentiate between the front and rear Continental IO-360-H air-cooled flat-six piston engine sounds, or chatter, important here. This is a 337, so the rear engine has the ability to overheat, so it needs constant fresh air from the nose propeller to keep it within a reasonable temperature range, hence you start the nose engine first, even then you can't sit (or muddle) around all day as the rear engine temperature rises quickly. There are of course the front and rear cowlings, of which would always be open on the ground... There is no point to point flight route here today, this flight's objective is to see how high I can fly a Cessna. The Ceiling of the T337G is 20,000ft, the usual around 12,500ft non-pressurized. All the engines now warmed up, and off goes the park-brake. First job is to "Seal" the door, but the wide open gap around the bottom of the door says the developer didn't take the sealing idea seriously? In fact there are holes everywhere, around the glass and even through the dashboard? You don't need to use the rear engine for taxiing, there is enough pull from the front to keep the rear at idle until you get to the runway. The T337G is nice to taxi, and fast too if you want to move on past say the usual 12 knts. Because of the unique engine arrangement and rear fuselage configuration, the rear engine creates instant aerodynamic flow over the huge horizontal stabiliser and elevator, so the pitch feel is there from the word go... so you have to be aware in the way you use the pitch earlier than usual. On the real 337, the pitch trim is motorised automatically to compensate for the extra elevator pressure loadings, and will work (trim) from the moment you leave the runway. The rear propeller is highly exposed as well... throwing up rocks from the rear wheels can cause grief (in other words expensive repairs), and you have to leave the runway cleanly, or not in a too pitched up angle, in not catching the ground with the propeller sort of skill. But the unique push/pull engine configuration also works for you in not creating any (depending on the power outputs) yaw, as the inline counter-rotating propellers give no directional thrust pull, so there is no asymmetrical thrust or yaw to the power output of the propeller, basically you go straight down the runway with no corrections or slight rudder corrections. I usually bring the front (puller) up to 90% power, tracking centreline I then bring up the rear (pusher) to match it... it feels like a late Turbo push in your back when the extra power comes in. Powering down the runway you have a lot of forces, that PUSH in your back, and the huge aerodynamic control coming in, a big clean wing and blown horizontal stabiliser give you a lot of feel in the controls early... slightly pull back on the Yoke at 100 knts (no flap) and your flying. It's responsive... and once clear then a 10% pitch to climbout... you have ton's of power behind you, so the 337 will climb-out very easily, here you have the extra 225 HP per engine, and so you feel the push, Rate of climb is 1,200 ft/min (6.1 m/s), but you can do a 1,000 fpm comfortably... The Thranda 337 detail of the retraction storing of the spindly gear was excellent, here it is just as good, but with the exception for one area. The nosegear twists sideways before retracting, but here the wheel (twists) retracts before the cowling door(s) are fully open, so the wheel cuts through the door itself? The rear gear installing into the bays is however excellent, as the complicated door arrangement opens and the gear furls in by twisting and going up at the same time, great to watch. But with the gear down it produces a climb penalty of a bit over 100 FPM, raising it carries a temporary 240 FPM hit with all the theatrics of the doors being open (did I mention that a lot of owners take the doors off, yes I did). Once clear of the runway, I get a feel for the aircraft and trim it out. The 337 is an extremely stable platform, now clean it is easy to trim and cruise at 3,000ft. Sounds are fabulous, with great thrumming from both engines as you power along. Top Speed for the Turbo is 211 kts, with a Cruise Speed of 204 kts, 210 HP standard engines gives you 173 kts at sea level, and 165 kts cruise at 10,000 ft, so the Turbo is significantly more powerful. I was disappointed in the poor instrument (dial) backlighting, it makes the instruments hard to read? There are "Post" lighting storks as per usual on a 337, but they don't seem to work here either, the two adjustment knobs are hard to use as well, so overall the lighting is disappointing. This is the Pressurized Skymaster, so you have to set the Pressurization on the lower left panel. You need to set the "Cabin Altitude" dial to around 6,000ft to 7,000ft, obviously make sure the cabin is sealed ready as we did earlier. Ready, you then turn on the "PRESSURE" switch to ON. Then start your climb. There is a trick on finding the right power setting (speed) to climb rate, I found 130 knts to 700fpm about ideal up to 12,000ft. And your climbing, if slowly towards the your 20,000ft ceiling... ... it's weird, because you don't usually fly this high in a General Aviation aircraft, passing through 10,000ft and your up there in the clouds, and the ground is still falling away beneath you. You are used to this view in an airliner, but not in a GA aircraft.... 12,500ft is the "Death line", no pressurization and you will start to lose oxygen, and the blackness will form. X-Plane simulates this blackout, redout, and hypoxia effect, but you can turn it off on the "MENU/SETTINGs/FLIGHTMODEL/Simulate blackout, redout, and hypoxia effects" tickbox setting. So if you have got your pressurization panel set correctly and switched on, you should be able to continue flying on up higher as the system keeps your environment/cabin set at a lower (7,000ft) comfortable pressure. Your always aware of the "Cabin Altitude" (warning) light, if it comes on you've lost pressurization... not a good thing. Climbing now through 14,000ft, it's cold up here, and my windows then froze over (so did the wings!). There is an Windshield anti-ice System, and working de-icing boots on the wings, and both (thankfully) worked in clearing the ice from the windows and wings, both important tools to have while flying this high. After 12,500ft you start to lose climbing pitch, you start off around 600fpm, then slip to 400fpm, then as you go though 15,000ft your struggling at 200fpm, the more climb pitch on the AP, the more you lose speed, and so there is a limit or tradeoff in going on up higher.... I chickened out at 16,000ft, my aim was 18,000ft, but it would have taken ages to do that last 2,000ft snail climb. Even to make the 16,000ft climb had taken me 90 nm! "Yikes" that is a long way up... but at last I could mixture the engines back (a little) and settle into a cruise speed of around 145 knts. But it's an impressive little aircraft, flying this high as a Dash 8 Q400. Lighting There are two instrument panel lighting adjustments, the instrument back-lighting is weak, as in the daytime, it needs more "oomph", there is the glareshield dropdown lighting, it helps, but your still crying out for more brightness to light up the instruments. There is a single overhead forward light, that is not quite strong either, as are the two roof mounted rear seat lights. The AP panel looks nice in the dark, but again you want more colour (green) in the buttons, overall it's all there but not effective. Externally it is quite good. Separate Taxi and Landing lights in the nose, standard Navigation (single white right boom taillight), strobe and a big red beacon again on the right side tail. It was a long way up to 16,000ft, but going down is easy, you just pull back on the power and use the right amount of power to control your descent speed, no need for the pitch AP wheel control, and drop you do, even 2,000ft fpm is easily achieved, but around 600fpm-800fpm is the best option. This is an X-Plane 12 aircraft (an X-Plane 11 version is part of the package), and X-Plane 12 can throw up great flying vistas, certainly in the late afternoon sun. I'm quickly back around a 337's normal flight altitude of around 10,000ft, I'm heading for Hervey Bay (YXHB) airport, just over World Heritage-listed K'gari island. Trimmed out at 5,000ft and under manual control, this is flying pleasure... I have always liked the 337, The Carenado version was excellent, the Thranda is great as well, but I like Skytouch version just as well, it is a simpler aircraft than the Thranda 337, and in many ways better for it from a flying aspect. All the X-Plane 12 effects work, we have seen the misting and icing earlier, and the Librain effects are good as well, they stream over the windows quite thickly. HVB - Hervey Bay is hard to pickout, there are no Nav-Aids to help you here, it is all VFR flying, so there is a lot of looking and pointing, then lining up the aircraft to runway Rwy11, your focal point to the approach is HBAWI waypoint, then straight in. Flaps are 4 phase 3 degree movements; UP - 1/2 - 2/3 - FULL, get the speed right and there is simply no ballooning, just slight drop of speed, even down to the FULL setting, the Skymaster will stay calm and collected with no fighting of the aircraft... critical on approach. Down goes the gear, noisy, and you need to give the arrangement in transition time to unfurl and set it's self ready in the landing configuration. Over the threshold and your in the 70 knts range, perfectly stable... ... 60 knts in the flare. The flare has to be perfect, as you are very aware of that rear propeller hanging down. Slight 5º-6º degrees to keep the nosewheel slightly higher than the rears, then let it down. When the rears touch you bring down the nose carefully, the slow landing speed and excellent lift really helps here to get it right. From then on it is just touching the foot brakes to keep the 337 straight, and you can then power down the rear engine to idle. Once parked, you have to De-Pressurize the cabin (yes you could do this earlier below 10,000ft if you wanted to). You dump the air-pressure, via two pull knobs set right of the pedestal, by pulling them and you can hear the air noisily disappear. Then you can unlock the "door seal", to exit the aircraft. Liveries There is a blank white + three liveries with the Skymaster 337. All are not particularly creative, your really asking for more liveries for the price, and no USAF O-2A military feels a bit mean. __________________________ Summary The Cessna 337 is a very unique aircraft in the history of aviation. It is only one of the few created and built in the Push/Pull configuration, or a forward PULL engine and a rear PUSH engine, and a twin-engined aircraft in a linear configuration, to accommodate the rear push engine it has a two boom and twin tail arrangement, with a standard Cessna fuselage and forward engine layout. Yes it's totally unique, but it all works. X-PlaneReviews has done another 337 review, as earlier in 2023, as Thranda Design released their Cessna 337F Skymaster. However this is the "G" model, not the Thranda "F" model, and there are big performance differences between the two aircraft. The earlier "F" had the IO-360-C Engine (210 HP), were as this "G" model has the TSIO-360-H Engine, Turbocharged and also being a Pressurized 337 version, it was also up-rated to 225 HP. The word "Pressurized" is the point here as the aircraft can fly above the 12,500ft blackout limit to a ceiling of 20,000ft. This SkyTouch version is not in the same quality wise in the Thranda Hi-Res and feature heavy category, but it is also US$10 cheaper as well, However it is a very decent T337G with a very well and realistic working pressurization system, plus the same for Anti-Ice and working working de-icing boots on the wings. Notable it is also a first release from a the designer, so we will always give a little leeway there. The Flight Model is based on real data, and you feel the quality of the performance and handling of the 337, sounds are very good as well, as are the few features provide by a menu with a built in checklist. But for this price range (Sub US$30), there are a few niggles. There are a few poor modeling points, twin-rear rudders are not set correctly, and there are holes everywhere in the cabin, around the (so called "Seal" door), and sky is visible through the instrument panel in various places. Nose wheel cuts through the not fully-opened doors, and the internal lighting is quite below par, certainly the instrument lighting in the daylight. Certainly more features on the Menu would be nice as well as separated entrance cabin doors. Seats are bit bland as well. There are no final weight or CofG (Centre of Gravity) details or graphs on the menu, but it is a good Weights&Balance Menu including six different pilot choices. But I seriously like this T337G, it has the higher performance, plus that ability to fly extremely high (for a General Aviation aircraft). Simplicity can sometimes provide more enjoyment, for the cost it actually great value, so I do recommend highly the SkyTouch T337G Skymaster as you would not be disappointed in the balance it delivers here. __________________________ Yes! Cessna T337G by Skytouch is now Available from the X-Plane.Org Store here : Cessna T337G Pressurised Price Is US$29.95 Requirements: X-Plane 12 or X-Plane 11 (both versions included in sperate zip files) Windows, Mac or Linux 4 GB VRAM Minimum - 8 GB+ VRAM Recommended Version 1. February 14th 2023 Installation and documents: download for the Skytouch_T337G is 2.80Gb and the aircraft is deposited in the "General Aviation" X-Plane folder. Full Installation is 3.32Gb Documents supplied are: USERManual_T337G_VER1.1.pdf Checklists are part of the Menu The AviTab plugin is also required to use this aircraft, and it is deposited in your X-Plane Plugins folder. _____________________ 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 Software: - Windows 11 Pro - X-Plane 12.05r1 (This is a beta review). Plugins: Traffic Global - JustFlight-Traffic (X-Plane.OrgStore) US$52.99 : Global SFD plugin US$30.00 : RK Apps XPRealistic v2 - US$34.99 ___________________________ News by Stephen Dutton 15th February 2023 Copyright©2023: 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: X-Hangar DHC-4 Caribou By Dominic Smith Introduction With an enduring passion for the art of virtual aviation, I am always thrilled to sit at the controls of a new X-Plane model, even though my flying skills often don't warrant it. Today, it is the turn of the DHC-4 Caribou from X-Hangar, a developer whose work I have really come to admire over my two-decade journey through the X-Plane universe. Each new aircraft I encounter, such as the Caribou here, rekindles my enthusiasm and reinforces my belief in the infinite possibilities of X-Plane. This robust and versatile transport aircraft, with its unique charm and capabilities, is the latest to have captured my attention. The DHC-4 Caribou, a marvel of Canadian aviation engineering, first took to the skies in 1958. Created by de Havilland Canada, a company renowned for its rugged, reliable, and innovative aircraft designs, the Caribou was purpose-built to cater to the unique demands for a versatile and sturdy short takeoff and landing (STOL) transport aircraft capable of operating in diverse environments. Over the span of its production life, more than three hundred Caribous were produced, serving in a variety of roles such as cargo transport, troop movements, medevac, and more. The Caribou's simplistic, yet functionally robust design, excellent short-field performance, and durability have made it a popular choice among military and civilian operators worldwide, and as such, I’m pleased to offer my thoughts on the X-Plane model being reviewed here by X-Hangar. X-Hangar's DHC-4 Caribou, much like the Shorts Skyvan I reviewed previously, highlights the developer's dedication to creating immersive and accurate flight experiences that a wide range of simmers can enjoy. This is illustrated through a myriad of features that not only enhance the model's authenticity but also adds a layer of interaction for the user. These include three distinct models: a radar pod variant, a non-radar pod model, and a bare metal version. Other features included in the package are rain effects on the windscreen and windows, a Garmin 430 with pop-up panel, pilot figures including pilot, co-pilot, and loadmaster, custom 3D gauges and sounds, as well as numerous liveries. Documentation In keeping with X-Hangar's approach of creating both comprehensive and user-friendly aircraft models, the Caribou comes with an impressive amount of documentation. This includes a highly detailed PDF manual, which provides a thorough overview of the Caribou's operational features and cockpit layout. This is extremely well-written and includes numerous images which clearly illustrate key aspects of the aircraft's cockpit and operation. In addition to explaining the Caribou's functionality, the manual also includes a nicely detailed tutorial on how to operate the aircraft through all phases of flight. I highly recommend you look at this section, as it will allow you to get the most enjoyment out of the model. A notable highlight of the documentation is the availability of a downloadable real-world pilot's manual spanning over 450 pages (now that’s what you call a real POH). Having this included not only enhances the authenticity of the package on offer, but also serves as an invaluable educational resource for those keen on learning more about the DHC-4 Caribou's operation in the real world. Installation The installation process of the DHC-4 Caribou follows the same tried and tested formula as other X-Hangar models, including the previously reviewed Shorts Skyvan. A hassle-free process, it involves downloading the appropriate model (versions available for both X-Plane 11 and 12) and extracting the files into your X-Plane's 'Aircraft' folder. There are no convoluted steps, no confusing instructions, and most importantly of all, no online activation (thank you X-Hangar). Exterior The first thing that struck me about seeing X-Hangar’s Caribou up close was its robust and utilitarian design, a reflection of its real-world counterpart's roles in military and civil operations worldwide. This was no sleek, modern airliner (sorry Stephen), but a workhorse, built to handle demanding environments and heavy loads. X-hangar’s DHC-4 Caribou comes complete with a variety of interactive features, such as opening engine cowls, cargo and passenger doors which both open and close, and numerous liveries, all of which help provide an engaging level of immersion. This focus on interaction, while not groundbreaking, certainly adds value to the overall experience, a trait that some models in a similar price range often lack. The short, stout fuselage, high wings, and twin radial engines, all hallmark features of the Caribou, are rendered with an appreciable level of detail, and as such, it's clear to see that a lot of effort has been put into capturing the unique characteristics of this STOL aircraft. The exterior texturing has notable highlights, particularly the faithfully recreated liveries that reflect actual aircraft, lending a strong sense of authenticity to the model. However, I found the metallic shine seen on some of the liveries to be somewhat inconsistent, and this occasionally detracted from the visual appeal. This minor inconsistency did not significantly undermine the overall visual quality of X-Hangar’s Caribou, but it's worth noting for those who place a high emphasis on texture consistency. Despite this minor issue, the Caribou's exterior remained pleasing to the eye, and whilst it may not reach the pinnacle of photorealism seen in some high-end products, X-Hangar’s model presents a worthy depiction of the aircraft's exterior. When combined with the assorted interactive features, it delivers a balanced experience that holds its own merit. Interior The interior of the Caribou, though again, not striving for photorealism, emanates a charm and effectiveness that has a unique appeal. Rather than chasing the ultra-high definition 4K textures that some users might anticipate (along with expensive, high-end systems), X-Hangar has chosen a path that leans more towards performance and accessibility. The textures and artwork may not leverage the full extent of today's graphical powerhouses, but they are well-executed and possess an engaging charisma that is both captivating and immersive. This decision to prioritize performance, which I highly commend (your VRAM will love you, trust me), enables the model to perform smoothly even on lesser systems, thereby broadening its reach. This demonstrates that creating a high-quality aircraft model doesn't necessarily mean pushing every pixel to its limit. Instead, the focus can be on delivering a balanced and enjoyable user experience that a wider audience can appreciate. Those who happen to overlook the Caribou due to its absence of ultra-high-resolution textures might very well be missing a hidden gem, as the model's honest representation, combined with its accurate portrayal of the aircraft's functions, offers a compelling package that can, in some respects, outshine other more graphically demanding models. The addition of pilot figures - a pilot, co-pilot, and loadmaster - heightens the sense of realism, creating the impression of a fully crewed aircraft primed for that all-important mission or flight. Extending the focus on detail to the cabin, X-Hangar has included passengers as part of the interior. While this is not an uncommon feature, it contributes positively to the Caribou's overall immersive environment, and whilst the passengers are presented in a modestly detailed manner, they add to the sense of a fully occupied and lively aircraft without overstepping into the realm of ultra-realism. The cockpit layout, as with most models by X-Hangar, strikes a good balance between functionality and the charm of a classic aircraft such as the Caribou. The pilot's front panel houses the standard six flight instruments, while the centre front console is dedicated to engine gauges, plus the Garmin 530. Critical engine fire controls are conveniently located just above these, whilst nestled between the two pilot seats, you'll find the all-important radio controls. The overhead panel, breaking up the large glass area above, is the domain of throttle and prop pitch controls, mixture, flaps, and ignition switches. Despite the cockpit's complexity, all dials and switches are clear and easy to read, though they can get slightly blurry when examined too closely, however, the quality of the texturing remains consistent with the rest of the aircraft. Oh…and for those of you who enjoy a little snack during a long flight, you even get a wee Snickers bar! The cargo area has not been neglected either, as in a wonderful touch, a Christmas tree, intended for use with the festive Santa Bou livery, is provided in the radar dome model. If that isn’t enough to capture your Christmas spirit (slightly more challenging in May), the tree lights up at night, adding a whimsical charm to the aircraft that is sure to delight many simmers. Sound Echoing my previous experiences with X-Hangar’s excellent Shorts Skyvan, the Caribou provided a respectable level of sound immersion in the audio department. Engine samples, as far as I could discern, were mostly accurate across all stages of flight, providing an authentic feel that isn't always easily achieved when custom sound samples are used. Inside the cockpit, the auditory landscape was populated by more subtle effects, such as the muted clicks of switches in the cockpit and the mechanical sound of control surfaces, such as flaps adjusting to their new position. While the variety of sounds wasn't exhaustive, what was present added a palpable layer to the overall experience. Flight Characteristics Having completed the tour of the aircraft, I was eager to take the Caribou to the skies. The setting for this particular flight was Sitka Rocky Gutierrez Airport located in Alaska, a personal favourite of mine, and the start of many a long flight…except for this one! Before takeoff, I was immediately struck by the Caribou's ground handling as the aircraft responded precisely to my inputs, allowing for easy taxiing to the runway. The brakes were firm, and the turning radius was impressively tight for an aircraft of this size - a clear nod to its STOL capabilities. As I lined up on the runway and advanced the throttles, the Caribou surged forward with a sense of purpose, its twin radial engines roaring in a symphony of raw power. The takeoff roll was surprisingly short, living up to its real-world counterpart's STOL reputation. The aircraft lifted off almost willingly, and as I climbed, the Caribou's responsive controls became evident, it was stable yet agile. During the cruise phase, the Caribou felt predictable and confident, as if it were in its natural habitat. The aircraft managed to maintain altitude with minimal input, and the autopilot features functioned as expected, allowing for a hands-off flight when desired (perfect for that quick cup of coffee or Snickers bar). As I approached Sitka again for the return leg, I began to appreciate the Caribou's low-speed handling. The aircraft was docile and easily controlled during the descent and approach, demonstrating admirable stability even at slower speeds. The flaps and landing gear extended smoothly, with each stage of flap deployment noticeably altering the aircraft's flight characteristics. The final approach required a certain degree of finesse, as the Caribou demanded careful handling with small control inputs. The touchdown was smooth…for me anyway, with the robust undercarriage absorbing the impact of my landing with ease. Slowing the aircraft on the runway, the effective brakes and reverse thrust brought us to a gentle halt. Performance In terms of performance, the DHC-4 Caribou from X-Hangar shares similarities with its counterpart, the Shorts Skyvan. Both are Plane Maker models, reflecting, as mentioned earlier on, X-Hangar's commitment to optimization for high performance, even on modest hardware. The Caribou upheld this principle, delivering a smooth experience throughout my testing. By utilizing X-Plane’s included Plane Maker for modelling, rather than the likes of Blender or AC3D, where it’s easy to gobble up VRAM, X-Hangar has ensured that users with a wide range of system capabilities can enjoy a seamless experience, free from framerate issues. Conclusion In summing up, I have to say that I thoroughly enjoyed my time testing out X-Hangar's DHC-4 Caribou, as it really does have a charm that pulls you in, something which may not be apparent at first. Yes, the model doesn't aim for the photorealistic textures seen in some high-end payware models, but this by no means detracts from the experience. In fact, it's in this decision that the Caribou finds its charm. The aircraft's performance on modest hardware is impressive, providing a smooth and enjoyable experience without compromising too much on detail, and the sound design, while not exhaustive, is effective and adds to the overall authenticity of the aircraft. The DHC-4 Caribou may not cater to the tastes of all simmers, particularly those in search of 4K textures or "ultra realism". However, as mentioned above, it is the simplicity and charm of this model that makes it stand out, as it is an aircraft that offers a unique and highly enjoyable flying experience. X-Hangar's Caribou is a testament to the fact that authenticity in X-Plane, or flight simming in general, is not solely about high-end graphics or an endless list of features, as the right balance of performance, sound, and visuals can also lead to a memorable experience, as is the case here. Overall, the DHC-4 Caribou is a proud testament to X-Hangar's commitment to quality and historical accuracy. Its vintage allure and robust features offer an engaging flight experience that’s hard to match. So, if you're looking to diversify your hangar with a piece of aviation history, then X-Hangar's Caribou is more than worthy of your consideration. ________________________ The DHC4 C-7A Caribou by X-Hangar is now available from the X-Plane.Org Store here: DHC4 C-7A Caribou Priced at US$22.95 Features Three flyable models: radar pod, no radar pod, and bare metal Rain effect on windscreen and windows Garmin 430 with pop up panel Opening engine cowls Opening cargo doors Opening passenger doors Sliding radio tray Detailed 3d engine and props Many custom 3d gauges Many liveries included Pilot figures including pilot, co-pilot, and loadmaster Custom sounds Animated controls Many detailed parts Checklist included PDF manual included that tells you how to fly and use the instrument panels Night LIT textures included Real pilot tested Link to download a 450+ page beautiful, crisp, and clear real world pilot's manual Requirements X-Plane 11 fully updated Windows, Mac, or Linux 4 GB VRAM Minimum Download Size: 472 Mb Version XP12 - Feb 20th, 2023 Review System Specifications Intel i5 10400 – 32GB RAM - Nvidia Asus RTX 3060 – Windows 10 Home 64 Bit __________________________________ Aircraft Review by Dominic Smith 19th May 2023 Copyright©2023: 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).

Aircraft Review : E-Jets Family by X-Crafts Over the last decade of doing Flight Simulation reviewing for the X-Plane Simulator, you are are noticing the consistent changes. Also the birth of new developers, and losing a few as well. A lot of newcomers come in with a lot of enthusiasm, but you need more than gusto in creating projects for the Simulator. X-Plane was built for the enthusiast, the twidder, but to go professional or to create payware projects, then that is a gradation of another few levels again. Sadly the one-man all-rounder developer are now basically extinct, they just can't cover all the aspects required to create modern-day sophisticated aircraft, modeling, systems, animations, performance and product support. It requires a team, usually three with different skills to create the complex Simulations you fly. And that is the point, the necessary huge leap today for simulation, in not only the ultra detailing, the depth of systems, and the extremes of aircraft performance, as all talents are required to mirror their real world counterparts. Which brings us to X-Crafts. The developers first came into X-Plane in August 2014 with their first release aircraft E 175 LR: Aircraft Review : Embraer E 195 LR by X-Crafts, then the smaller E 175 on December 5, 2015. The "WOW" effect was obvious with X-Crafts first release (E 195 LR), in modeling terms the aircraft and features were exceptional for the time (yes all the way back to X-Plane 10). But the aircraft was still based on the X-Plane "PlaneMaker" default systems and tools. The version v2 of both E aircraft moved to the Tekton FMC by Steve Wilson. This was Hybrid system between the X-Plane default FMC, to make it perform like a custom FMC. The idea was clever, but with the underlying issues of the way the default FMS worked, the Tekton systemm was difficult to use, mostly when editing routes, or setting the departure or arrival procedures, personally I never gelled with it, and I hate fussy ways of doing things that are not authentic, but to give a lot of points to Steve Wilson for trying. So you can see the dilemma of X-Crafts earlier products, great visuals, features and modeling, but hampered overall by their default X-Plane systems. You can now try these aircraft out for free here, as they with this new E-Family have now been retired to Freeware. But note Version 2.5 is the final version, as there will not be any more updates. Let us first though explain the type numbering on E-Jets from Embraer of Brazil. There are actually two categories of E-Jets. The first is the "ERJ" Family with the rear fuselage mounted engines and high T-Tail configuration, the Family has ERJ 135 - ERJ 140 - ERJ 145 - ERJ 145 XR aircraft in this low number category. The "E" Family has the higher numbers... E 170 - E 175 - E 190 - E 195 and these aircraft are recognised by the two engines on the wing, and normal rear elevator configuration. The E-Jets Family noted here in this release are the second category of aircraft of the two families, there is also the new E Jet (New Generation) E2, with the same E 175-E2, E 190-E2 and E195-E2 types, but those aircraft are not yet relevant, bit like Airbus CEO and NEO engine options. Here is the line up of E Jets from X-Crafts... E 170 E 175 E 190 E 195 Any single type is priced at US$74.95, or all four for US$134.95 as a package, a bonus aircraft to be released in the future is the E 190 Lineage Business Jet. This aircraft will be free for purchasers of the 4 aircraft package, and the usual US$74.95 a singular purchase. The "Lineage" will have a custom private jet interior, hence the delay. Notes have been made that previous purchasers of the E Jet v2 (X-Plane 11) will have a discount (15%) towards the new X-Plane 12 upgrade here Modeling and detail quality My first reaction to the purchase price was a bit of a shock, the earlier (X-Plane 11) E Jets from X-Crafts were priced around the US$40 mark, and an increase of almost twice the price to the X-Plane 12 version is a big step, and also a step up into the big time, so there is a lot to deliver at that price point... the point of this review is to establish if this aircraft is worthy of the higher price status. Modeling was never going to be an issue, as X-Crafts in my mind always earlier delivered exceptional modeling and detail for the money, they don't disappoint here either. Remember the benchmark is FlyJSim's exceptional Q4XP (Dash 8), priced at US$79.95, so there is a $5 lower margin here for the E Jet. I can't cover all four E Jets obviously, so I had to pick one, which one would be the most popular? hard to choose but my instincts say the biggest, the E 195, so that is my choice here. First impressions are "Wow" and more "Wow"... the quality is simply excellent. We are aware of how to grade detail, not by the big picture of the aircraft actually looking right (which it does from the start here), but to detail the minute work that shows on how much of the detailing has been done. Aircraft panel work and construction rivets are perfection, as are all the required pitot and probes, their own detail are all excellent, as is all the perfect (readable) warning text... ... more importantly is the shimmer on the metal, this shows a fuselage realism, not just a flat panel, you can feel and even see the realistic metal surface. Cabin windows are really well detailed, even internally, with great tinted glass and reflections. Cockpit windows are also perfection, with metal surrounds and twin (sizes) rows of different quality screws, the highly tinted glass is thick and has exceptional scuff wear and tear in the translucent surfaces, very high quality detail. The front left door looks quite flat, even painted on details, but that is far from the case. For as when you open the door to a nice red detailed handle, and activation flap... nice. (all doors including cargo are same detail) Wing detail is exceptional... wing form is excellent, perfect shape, note the nice cap wear (flare) detailing, metal leading edge is perfect. Inner wing root is exceptional, with all the different types of metal forms and perfect lighting housing, note the engine support strut detail. Obviously it is a modern clean wing, but it opens up to show the well detailed internal mechanism, not only on the airbrakes... .... but the highly detailed flap and leading edge mechanisms as well, which are all beautifully animated and work as required. To point out the inner movable flap tracks, set adjoining the fuselage, they adjust along with the flap movement, and a great detailed focus from the developers. Under-wing detail with access panels are all well covered, the wing is basically exactly like the real thing... High detail is also noted with the wingtip lighting assembly (note the bulb glass, and their metal holding wires) and the lovely flared winglets. I "really, really" love those red engine covers (separate toggle), so nicely done. All engines here are GE 34-8E-10 turbofan engines, rated at 82.29 kN (18,500 lbf). Both the engines and engine nacelles are supplied by General Electric. The engines are also equipped with full authority digital engine control (FADEC). Nacelle Pod design and shape is excellent, the 53 in (130 cm) fan is also nicely designed, but the internal inlet maul wear and tear is exceptional, best seen yet of a working in-service aircraft, reverser action and inner detail is also very good, and to note the modern chevrons around the exhaust cone, all in all the engines are really well done and authentic. Usually as a guide in the past to the depth of the modeling development is as always the landing gear. The Q4XP gear was exceptional, but maybe here we have gone a level higher in detail again, impossible you say, well the evidence is all here to be seen, extraordinary it is... ... presented is really a miniature reproduction of the landing gear, as so highly detailed this all is... all the links, hydraulic lines and pistons, cables and connectors, even the nut, bolts and washers are represented, and all are totally perfectly recreated, right down to the authentic servicing charts... it is altogether a big "Wow" factor. The main gear wheels are exposed (à la Boeing 737), so you have the option of on or off wheel covers, a tough choice because again the wheel rim detail (worn) is also so very good. Excellent tyres are "Bridgestones", why because I can read the supreme detail! Nosegear is the same ultra high level in detail as the main gear, nice wear and tear feel as well, nothing is misplaced or forgotten, but designed perfectly here. I could obviously go, on, on and on with the various minute detailing done here by X-Crafts, but in reality you would have to be extremely picky, or even plain weird to fault any of this work, it is exceptional modeling and detail, even the best in class. _______________ Menus There are three menus, two within the other. There is first a banner "E-Jets Family (Aircraft type)" menu. This has Four Sub-Menus; "Tech Support" (Internet Site), "FAQ" (internet Site), "EFB" (Electronic Flight Bag) and "Settings". EFB This EFB menu is both available from the drop down banner menu and inside the cockpit. This EFB menu will be split, in showing the external details first, then later with the internal selections. Notable is that (all) menus can be moved around the screen, scaled and can also made into a Window menu. Ground Services- The "Ground Services" Tab is for the four main doors, two cargo hold hatches, and "External Elements", consisting of a very nice GPU (Ground Power Unit) and a supply connection. Four Cones and Wheel Chocks (set together as Ground Objects), and those lovely Inlet Engine covers with the pitot/probe covers. SETTINGS There are two tab selections under Settings... "Utility" and "Sound". Overall considering, there is not a lot of selections as options for the E-Jets, my guess is that more settings will be added in later? Utility Tab - Setting options include; Direct Keyboard Entry Key - Weight Units (Kgs/Lbs) - Pause Top of Descent - Enable Verbose Logging (used for beta/testing) - Show Reflections - Show Easter Eggs - Enable realistic CDU input delay (Slower input reactions, for realism) - Use next gen avionics (toggles between the older style PRD (Primary Flight Display) called "Load 25" or the newer "Load 27" design) - Use (toggle) wheel covers, and only on the E-Jet 175 is the option - Use LR Winglets (use the standard or wide winglets like on the E2). Sound - Sound options include; Overspeed Warning - Cabin Announcements (Auto) - FMOD volume (Main Volume) - Engine Volume in Interior View (Internal cockpit sounds) and Direct Key Entry Volume (Tic-tac!) Cabin Internal cabin detail is very nice... cabin is in two classes, Business forward 2 + 1 and Economy 2 + 2 in the rear. Forward the business class seats are in that fake black soft patent leather, bulky and really well (realistically) designed, in the rear economy it is more of a modern vinyl with perforated inserts with hard shell backs, again all very realistic. Window panels are nicely done, but the window blinds are fixed, sometimes in the half or down position, not a big fan of that. Overhead detail is not too bad, the circles a bit ridgedy, but the detail is good. Even with the default liveries, the internal cabin fitouts and colours change with the different livery selection, their seems to be four, even one with a different economy seat design to mirror the Business class style. Both forward and rear galleys are excellent. Detail is deep and highly realistic, right down to the worn labels. Toilets however are not modeled... on the bulkhead (both galleys) are cabin lighting panels, which are active, we will look at them in the lighting section. E-Jet Cockpit The thing about X-Plane forward development, it sorts of creeps up on you. You are in thinking things are very similar, but in reality the level of quality is always in changing around you. That aspect is very evident here in the E-Jet cockpit. There is then that sort of line. the difference between modeled, and what you see in real life, that distinction... This barrier can only be overcome by insane detailing, covering every minute detail in detail, to get it all right, and that is what you get here, a very, very close reflection of real life, the ultimate goal of any simulator. We are all very familiar with the E-Jet cockpit and it's layouts. not only from the earlier X-Crafts E-Jets, but the SSG versions of the E-Jet as well... but this X-Plane 12 version feels different, not just the lighting, but in the overwhelming detail. Seats are perfection in detail. Both seats will track back and outer to the wall to let you get in, a favorite toy I like, also the armrests will not only go up, but fold in behind the backrest as well, very authentic in detail Seats are detailed in leather sides and heavy cloth inner are excellent in their ruffled worn feel, seat base construction and rails are also very well reproduced, I'm not going to over use the words here in authenticity, or realism in descriptions, but there is a total understanding that this is a very well thought out and highly detailed cockpit, certainly on par with the Q4XP, and that aircraft set a very high standard, if not the best in it's class. Pilots side wall detail is again very good, and your always looking for great ideas that work... Lovely (Concorde style) ram yokes are fully active with not only the usual electronic Trim Switches, AP (Autopilot) disconnect, PTT (Press To Talk), but also the Chrono (start/stop) button as well, you hide them (only both) by pressing on the central Embraer Logo. Back to the "toys"... window shades, yes they work, lovely... but no pull downs on the main windows? But wait? down to the side is a click-on shade for the front windows! When attached it will slide across, and also twist to your preference, impressed! Press down the lovely copper button on the side window handle and the window will fold back, yes another happy toy to play with, the small details are everywhere and amazing, note the Flap lever movement, excellent. Your seeing the detail in this cockpit by the working small details, it is all so very impressive. Since X-Plane 12.04. I found the external light far brighter, making cockpits even more darker, it's not too bad here, and the "look down" effect is well matched in... but don't hold me to it, that lighting aspect could change again with X-Plane 12.06 and .07... The earlier E-Jets by X-Crafts felt slightly (if very well) modeled, but this X-Plane 12 version feels lived in, and I think that accolade changes the definition of between the two versions, as you flow very well into the captains seat here, or the F/O's if you prefer the right hand seat. Avionics Both DC "Battery" switches on, and you are backup mode, or on one bus or the other. The aircraft has Integrated drive generators. Each IDG generates constant frequency AC power at 40kVA, 115V, 400Hz, 3-phase. But here I will use the GPU, for instant AC power to the systems. You can tell you are in backup mode as only half the systems come on line, then as the external AC power comes on, then all the systems come together bit by bit, everything is "Auto", even the INS alignment, which you know is active when the lower HSI "Rose" is created, it's fast aligning as well compared to 5-7 minute wait on a B737, or A320, maybe just over a minute. One thing you are aware of is once everything is on, is on how very vibrant and sharp the avionics are. In the past they were always slightly blurry, but not at all here... The aircraft uses the Honeywell Primus "Epic", Electronic Flight Instrument System (EFIS) glass cockpit... ... and the instruments really stand out, no matter where you look at them from in the cockpit, beautiful horizon shades as well give the instruments a quality feel... As already noted you have the choice between "Load 25" or the newer "Load 27" Next Gen design PFD (Primary Flight Display), the differences are quite striking... like me 90% of you will say "Oh yeah, that one, I remember that version", because it is quite familiar. The three main displays PFD, MFD (Multi-Functional Display) and the EICAS (Engine Indicating and Crew Alerting System) all pop-out, but only on the pilot's left side, and they are all 3d static (floating) and can't be scaled, moved or made into a window. Lower HSI can be Full Heading mode (Rose) or ARC Mode. Three Tab options on the MFD include MAP - PLAN - SYSTEMS STATUS page is a MAP, TCAS or the VERTICAL PROFILE, of which we will delve more into later. Other System pages include; FLIGHT CONTROLS (Ctrl), HYDRAULICS, FUEL, ELECTRICAL, ECS (Environment) and ANTI-ICE. Instrument panel quality is simply "Stellar", yes I'm gushing, because it is all just so nicely done, worn screws and all the various screws that make up the assembly are all meticulously well done, you can spend hours admiring it all, under the (or behind) the panel is well finished off as well (cables) and worn rudder pedals, animated and so are the foot brakes..... note the filaments in the lighting. FMS - Flight Management System We have already talked about the hybrid Tekton FMC by Steve Wilson, and yes it is actually also available here as an option if you still prefer that original Tekton FMS System, as it is available on the banner menu, the aircraft does however require a reload and all your settings will go back to zero The "Authentic" FMS is well... authentic, so there is the need to understand it's fundamentals. Basically all FMS System do the same principles, in Departure (SIDs), route and Arrival (STAR,Transitions) details, but it's in the way each FMS system is interpreted, or it's quirks that usually need the focus and understanding... that is certainly the case here, as it can look on the surface complicated, it's not, so you still have to dig to get it programmed correctly. I will say from the start, I found a few bugs (double waypoint entries), but overall once understood, it is fine to use. X-Craft's are putting out video tutorials to help with the programming, reading through the tutorials is a good idea as well. The FMS System is a sort of "Semi-Independent" set up, Yes both sides of the FMS panel can be independently accessed by each flying pilot, but you can only program or interact with the left side FMS panel, which pops out for ease of use (you can window and scale it is well). Several notes while programming... pressing the lower "Scratch Pad" zone, will put you into the direct (Keyboard) input action, a Blue circle O top left shows you are in that mode, press the scratch pad zone again to go back to normal. If using a FMS Route (X-Plane default fms plans), then it is accessed via the FPL (KL6) list. Or manually via RTE (Route). The route is built via (DIRECT or AIRWAYS) that can be accessed by the two "PREV" or "NEXT" keys on the RTE page. For any inputs or changes you are in "MOD" or Modification mode, and those areas affected are shown in Blue, when activated then they turn Green, the same with the route... dots will show intended route, a hard white line shows activated route. DEPARTURE and ARRIVAL selections are found on the "NAV" page. Here I have no SID departure, just a DIRECT to the required waypoint (VERSO). ARRIVAL at LGAV (Athens) is via RWY 03R with the DDM.ILS approach, with again no STAR. You APPLY to activate. That is the route completed, but to add in more FMS data, we need to go back to the EFB.... EFB (Electronic Flight Bags) There are two internal sited EFB (Electronic Flight Bags) on each side window, press the plate for the EFB to appear. We have covered the earlier "Ground Services", but there are five more menu options; Weight & Balance, Takeoff Perf, Landing Perf, Checklists and AviTab (Avitab plugin required). Weight & Balance - Like with all current trends, the X-Craft's E-Jet uses the Navigraph "SimBrief" to load in the aircraft's "PERF", performance data, so you have to add in your SimBrief Pilot ID number to get access... there is of course the "Manual" version if you wish to use that. A small note... make sure you set your choice of weight (LBS or Kgs) in the SETTINGS before you proceed further, not to do so will wipe all your hard work, if you choose to change weights at a later time. Accessing SimBrief will bring up your current Briefing (LEBL - LGAV), and you load it into the EFB via the "View Loadsheet" button. This gives you your full loadsheet (Passenger and Cargo), Weights and CGs (Centre of Gravity). It is important to remember your TO CG, ZFW (Zero Fuel Weight) and GROSS WT (Weight) This Perf Data is inserted in the FMS on the PERFORMANCE INIT-LB page (2)... Filling in the "Perf Data" also then activates the "Vert Prof" (Vertical Profile) of your flightplan. This is shown in the lower section of the MFD, and in blue on the right side of your ACTIVE FLT PLAN. A feature of the FMS from X-Craft's are the vertical altitude limits at certain waypoints, here shown descending into Athens, the height Limit number is Underlined for reference. It's impressive, but also a bit complex to set up initially. Takeoff Perf - can be calculated by inserting the Wind, Temp and QNH of the departure airport, then pressing "COMPUTE". Landing Perf - can be calculated again by inserting the Wind, Temp and QNH of the departure airport, then pressing "COMPUTE". There is the option to "Send to FMS" both vSpeed datas, but I found they didn't work and had to fill in all the data manually? Checklists - are quite basic in interaction and detail, as there is no "Check off" as you go through the lists, there are sixteen categories. AviTab - The EFB also still has the usual AviTab functions, and Chartfox/Navigraph (Navigraph requires a monthly subscription for use, but ChartFox is donation based. The EFB can also in the AviTab mode be rotated from the horizontal to the vertical position. _____________ Flying the E Jets Family E-195 These E-Jet aircraft are built to be simple efficient short haul transports, the original Boeing 737 of today. So everything is pared back, from the very clean OHP to their systems intergration. Services need to be quick with efficient airport turnarounds, just to keep to the daily cycles... in fact these E-Jets are the real Airbuses of the world. They came out of lengthening Private Jets to carry passengers, then morphed into small regional Jets. On start up you get a welcome from X-Crafts and the current aircraft version number. Very first timers get a "Help" page directing you to the X-Crafts (web)site for any Q&A questions. All very professional. With the Navigation and Performance settings loaded, we are ready for flight... How Easy? Just turn a switch... There are two (one for each engine) STOP - RUN - START switches set above the throttles under a plastic protection cover. First to RUN, then to START... and that is it. There are no Bleeds to set, no Electrical routes to change, not even as the N1 pressure starts to rise, do you have to go and switch on the FF or Fuel Flow, it is all just AUTO, in it is Automatic and does everything for you.... ... Once both engines are running at idle (around 528 N2), then just close the switch covers. Again there is no system reconfiguration, (Bleeds, Electrical) is again not required, it just configures the systems automatically, easier than starting a car. I'm listening around, but I can't hear any sounds? my ear is listening upwards... nope nothing? We noted the sounds on the SETTING menu earlier, I find the sounds are all set to zero with this first flight? so you will need to adjust that first before starting the aircraft, 50% on all sliders is recommended... Engines obviously have full FADAC (Full Authority Digital Engine (or electronics) Control) that does the seemless (meaning perfect) engine start and preconditioned idle settings... everything is just so easy. On start up (now I could hear the sounds), the second engine start procedure could easily be heard, now running the CF34-10E sounds excellent, they are very unlike the usual CFM56-5 on a A320, very different whine and feel. Not to say it is not good, as the sounds are "best in class", meaning excellent with FMOD(2) and recorded from the real E-Jets. I'm impressed, very impressed. Pre-flight gymnastics means we are ready to go... "yes I'm excited". Like on the Airbus there is a T/O CONFIG (check if the aircraft is in a flying state), it tells me "Trim"... so I have to configure the "Pitch Trim" 2.6UP trim setting found in the Takeoff Prefs... then I get the "all clear". (brakes, doors... ect, will have the same aural warnings) With 52,000 TOW (TakeOff Weight), once the brakes are released you easily crawl forward, touch of power and your moving forwards. There are still in this v1.0 release version a few bugs... one is the throttles. If using a third party throttle (I use the Saitek X56), the throttle levers still move as one? and not individually, however the engine readout for each separate throttle lever movement is fine? Another issue is the Tiller, the nosewheel works fine with the Joystick yaw movement, but the Tiller wheel does not move? Manual movement of the Tiller is not great either? I enter Barcelona's Rwy 20 for departure... Power up to TO-2 Takeoff thrust setting, and you move... then move. I like the feel of the building of the speed, really realistic, weight also feels perfect for the loading up of the controls. 143 knts + 10... and rotate, and the E-195 climbs out cleanly, "Positive Climb". Up the gear, and the sensational detail is still "blowing your mind", as it retracts up into the belly, has there ever been detail this good before? It is so impressive. Once clear of the Rwy 20, you have to bank hard left to keep to the route direction, this was the first time of now being in flying control of the aircraft, feeling the machine, using your skills... I really liked what I found, the E-Jet is excellent in directional control and pitch, completing easily the tight manouvour with ease.... this relaxed me a little as I knew it was going to be a nice aircraft to fly. As you do, you manouvour the controls, left.. right, pitch slightly back, then forwards and feel the boundaries of the controls... nice, feels VERY nice, then follow the Flight Director commands to get the machine aligned correctly on course. I will admit I wasn't the biggest fan of the earlier X-Crafts E-Jets or SSGs, I just never really gelled with them in the personal flying sense, the X-Crafts ERJs I really liked... but this new aircraft is leaps and bounds forwards in every area, it has a real quality to everything, everything that was missing earlier. One area though that needs something is the backlighting? The glareshield "Guidance" panel is extremely hard to read, dark and you can't make out each, if any of the knobs or controls. No the activation lights DO NOT WORK, and just because they are there does not not mean they work... But this is a very hard panel to work with and mistakes are and can easily made in picking the wrong knob controller, worse is the FPA knob between the Altitude and V/S (Vertical Speed) knobs, you always pick the wrong one in the dark.... so your head is in the monitor screen trying to read the details... too hard? In the air the E Jet is simply excellent, there is a glow about the aircraft that makes it stand out on your screen, a realistic glow, but also a very X-Plane 12 "New" feel about everything... the aircraft is probably the first matured "Real" conceived aircraft for X-Plane 12 (not a X-Plane 11 conversion)... and it looks and feels different from that aspect. Now at altitude, then out come the "Toys"... When done correctly the blinds are now essential with the glare in the X-Plane 12 cockpit, here they are simply excellent, highly realistic. There is also a drop down (well turn over) "Jump" seat in front of the cockpit door, that can be used... ... cabin views are exceptional, your usual view when on an aircraft, like really being up there, which is the general idea of a flight simulator... "But this is really good!". Lighting As expected the lighting is also very good on the X-Crafts E-Jet Family. but there is a slight worry (issue). In the pristine darkness the panels look gorgeous, there is a full adjustment on the displays, and even the (Secondary) FLOOD/STORM knob that adjusts the panel downlighting, its BRIGHT, but can also be adjusted down to your perfect feel... MAIN PNL, OVHD PNL and PEDESTAL all have adjustments, and dark the backlighting (text) is fine, but even with full adjustment are all easily too dark in any brighter light. There are side CHART lights, nice, and a DOME set of lights rear roof cockpit (Which are really the FULL STORM lights). The cabin has a full lighting system... basically Front and Rear Galleys, Roof and cabin sidewall lighting. All the cabin lighting is controlled by a wall management panel, there is one forward, and another one set in the rear galley as well. Each section has four lighting modes (Dims) Off, Dim, Bright and Brighter. First SIDEWALL. ... now ROOF lighting. GALLEY FORWARD. GALLEY AFT. All the No Smoking and Seat Belt signs work, as does the Sterile cockpit. But you only get these effects in the Semi to dark situations, almost all the lighting, cabin/galley and warning lights except the EMERG EXIT signs are all null and void in the normal day light, so a common theme here, great if perfect lighting in the dark, but non-visible in the day light? This maybe a X-Plane 12 issue more than a developer issue here, as a lot of developers are struggling with internal lighting effects... from day one X-Plane 12 has had its "Black hole" daylight problems, we will see. But in the night conditions the lighting is overall excellent, even the Cargo holds are nicely illuminated. External lighting is also very, very good... There is NOSE, SIDE (Taxiway) INSP (Wing/Ice) and LOGO... Landing lights are LEFT - NOSE - RIGHT. In the air, there are the Navigation, Strobe and a Red Beacon lights. All all looks brilliant, and the Tail lighting is very nice. Because of the highly adjustable cabin lighting, there is no "Cruise Ship" look (unless you have the lighting all on FULL settings), fuselage INSP lights up the engines nicely, and the view from the internal is excellent. This release is called the "Family", so it is hard to choose which is the best aircraft for a given route. Mostly it is seating capacity, but range is a consideration as well. Seating is ... E170 E175 E190 E195 Single class seats - 72@32" 78@30-33" 8@32" - 88@29" 100@31/32" - 114@29/30” 116@31/32" - 124@29-31" Dual class seats - 66 (6F@40", 60Y@32") 76 (12F@36", 64Y@31") 96 (8F@38", 88@31") 100 (12F@42", 88Y@33") Performance The E170/E175 uses the GE CF34-8E 14,200 lbf (63 kN), and the E190/E195 uses the GE CF34-10E 20,000 lbf (89 kN) thrust. Max. speed / ceilingMach .82 (470 kn; 871 km/h; 541 mph) @ 41,000 ft (12,000 m), CruiseMach .75 (430 kn; 797 km/h; 495 mph)Mach .78 (447 kn; 829 km/h; 515 mph), and the ranges are E170 2,150nmi / 3,982 km, E175 2,200nmi / 4,074 km E190 2,450nmi / 4,537 km, E195 2,300nmi / 4,260 km. The E195 carries the most passengers, but the E190 has the best power and range overall of the fleet.... your choice! As I near the Greek coast your in that late flight dream phase, in tune with the aircraft and the surrounding sounds, yes still extremely impressive, that GE whine is comforting, and move around inside the aircraft and you feel the differences of the 3d sounds, from the quieter cockpit to the rear of the cabin. I had to adjust the sounds to what I liked best, both with the Menu sounds and the default X-Plane sound panel, but the results are worth it. PROGESS page on the FMS is impressive as well, a lot of data, and very colourful compared to an Airbus Thales system, but original to the aircraft, with Waypoints, Distance, Winds and Current outside Temp all represented. I will clear up a misconception. The X-Crafts E Jet Family will be available for MSFS (Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020). But the version is not what you think... With the MSFS version X-Crafts are only providing the modeling (models), nothing else. A separate development group will do the rest. So is it an X-Crafts product, sort of, but not really. X-Crafts note "3D visuals only, but they are not responsible for the systems, FMS, avionics, flight model, EFB, sounds or any other aspect of the MSFS version". The X-Plane 11/12 version is however fully 100% X-Craft's and so are the X-Plane 12 features that make it really stand out as seen here... it would however be an interesting comparison of the same aircraft on the two platforms. Athen's Eleftherios Venizelos beckons and I turn to final in STAR NEME2C to line up with LGAV/03R, the E-195 is a very nice stable aircraft on approach. Now I'm coming into the zone of altitude restrictions, they come up (red) on the flightplan in the "Vert Prof" (Vertical Profile) of your flightplan. The same altitude restrictions are also shown in (red) top right of your PFD, you are very impressed by the sheer amount of data presented on the PFD to help you navigate this prime period of aircraft interaction, it could could across initially as confusing, so study of all the FLIGHT MODE ANNUNCIATION DISPLAY (FMA) functions are required. Approach speeds are 195 kts at Flap 2, then down to 144 knts Flap 5, finally as low as 127 knts at FULL Flap. Everything is very nice and easy. I had expected an "Auto Flare", but didn't get one? the result was a hard bang down as the gear contracted... it is a very long soft contracting gear, then it all goes up rebounding the other way, the amount of movement in the reflex surprised me, so you will have to be well aware of getting the flare right and to do softer absorbing touchdowns. But what I really liked was the realism of it all, you feel all the struts and hydraulics working away under you. The days have gone after those earlier stick like X-Plane 9 landing gear, with no give or retraction.... we have come a long way in realism, not only in feel but the visual action as well. Engine reverse is interesting... back to idle, then the levers full back to reverse, but if using the "Toggle thrust reversers" command, you do the opposite, click to toggle then push the throttles forward to add the thrust, you get used to it... There is no "Arm" the spoilers either, they activate automatically, as long as there is weight on the wheels to signal that the aircraft is on the ground, and wheel speed is above 25 kts... once again below 25 knts they retract. Dance on the toe-brakes and your soon back at taxi speed... lovely. Detail again is outstanding in action. Liveries All packages come with eight liveries, all very high 4K quality, painter liveries are already available here; E-Jets Family by X-Crafts | Liveries Delta operated by SkyWest Alaska operated by Horizon United Express operated by Mesa American Eagle operated by Republic JetBlue Austrian KLM CityHopper Clean White There is the clear (paint) livery, and the coming "Lineage 1000" livery Private Jet ______________ Summary Ever since with their first release aircraft E 175 LR in X-Plane, August 2014. X-Crafts has had astounding quality modeling and detail. Only that their earlier aircraft were however based on PlaneMaker fundamentals. It showed and even the clever ideas of the Tekton FMC by Steve Wilson, could neither get their aircraft around the default limitations. The Release of their ERJ Family in 2019, was a major step in the right direction, but they still had the same default FMS and optional Tekton systems. So X-Crafts became known of being excellent developers, but their aircraft came only with basic (if clever) X-Plane systems and avionics. For X-Plane 12 (an X-Plane 11 version is available for 12 months) here is the brand new "E-Jet" Embrarer Family of the Embraer E170, Embraer E175, Embraer E190, and Embraer E195, with the private jet version Embraer "Lineage 1000" with a custom interior coming free later for the full package purchasers. The astounding quality of the aircraft here hits you in the face, this is "Top Notch" category that matches the class leader in FlyJSim's Q4XP Dash 8 aircraft, but there is also that "New Gen" feel of the quality and detail that gives this series the signal that it was created and designed for the future, or X-Plane 12, and it is not a conversion aircraft of the past. In truth this is the first (in this high-level category) of a pure X-Plane 12 release, and you see and feel it. There is a huge amount to like here; excellent modeling and detail, great functionality, great lighting, and the highlight is the fully custom FMS system that for once is not based on a X-Plane baseline, so the whole E-Jet aircraft is finally a custom machine... that is a really big step forward for X-Crafts. Menus are excellent (Two; Banner and EFB), and interact (W&B, Takeoff/Landing Perf) with the FMS to load in SimBrief profiles (not routes though), and the depth and quality of the FMS system is excellent. Independent Modules can be accessed by both both pilots, however they can only be programmed by the left side pilot, but its good overall, and highly detailed authentic. Sounds are first class for the category, on the ground and in flight, sonically everything is excellent. All doors open, and there are some nice static elements in chocks, cones and an external GPU. Flying dynamics are excellent by X-Aerodynamics (sixteen pilots were used for testing), so the flight modeling is totally solid and highly realistic. There are bugs, but for a new aircraft not at all profuse at this stage, issues with third party addons (Throttles and Joysticks), and a non-connection to the Tiller are very small annoyances, lighting is unusual. Excellent night lighting, is in contradiction to the various daylight lighting being blanked out? an X-Plane 12 issue? The Guidance Panel is impossible to see the daylight, and to use with no backlighting, so are a lot of the blank daytime lighting elements (Cabin signs/lights). Its odd, but I don't think it is developer issue. Every thing here with the E Jet Family from X-crafts comes down to price. The packages are set in the high quality category, a single aircraft version is priced only US$5 lower than the category leader the FlyJSim Q4XP, the full five aircraft package (the lineage coming later) is US$134.95, yes that is expensive. For the past purchaser of the X-Plane 11 v2 version, the new purchase gets a 15% discount, if you upgrade later to the full package, then there is a 50% discount, the best deal is 15% off the full package if you are a previous owner, still a big investment, and one that runs the full life of the X-Plane 12 version. That price may have been a problem, at being just under double of the old one. But you just can't compare the two eras. This X-Plane 12 E-Jet family is certainly very much placed in the upper category, as it delivers on every level of a professional level, in quality, it even maybe now be the quality leader in X-Plane... and that is a big statement to say it is the best modeled, and the best quality aircraft in this category, even in areas better than the Q4XP! In every other niche it delivers, so in reality you get what you pay for, and you won't be disappointed here either... So here is the future of X-Plane 12 aircraft, another new level and a step forward for the simulator into that high quality class, the word here is astounding... enjoy. _____________________ Yes! the Embraer E-Jets Family by X-Crafts is currently available from the X-Plane.Org Store here : Embraer E-Jets by X-Crafts Price per single aircraft is US$74.95 Embraer E170 by X-Crafts Embraer E175 by X-Crafts Embraer E190 by X-Crafts Embraer E190 by X-Crafts Purchasers of the E-Jet v2 (X-Plane 11) can get this new XP12 version with a 15% discount Embraer E-Jets Family by X-Crafts Price for the FULL E-Jet Package is US$134.95 Includes every E-Type | E170 | E175 | E190 | E195 Plus + Linaeage 1000 Private jet (When Released) Purchasers of the E-Jet v2 (X-Plane 11) can get this new XP12 version package with a 15% discount Requirements X-Plane 12 or X-Plane 11 The first few initial updates will still be X-Plane 11 compatible, however, 6 months after the release, the X-Plane 11 version will be final and development will continue only on the X-Plane 12 version. Windows, MAC or Linux - 4 GB VRAM Minimum. 8 GB+ VRAM Recommended Current version: v1.0 for X-Plane 12/11 (May 10th 2023) Download (Package) installed is; 5.56GB. The AviTab plugin is also required to use this aircraft, and it is deposited in your X-Plane Plugins folder. Designed by X-Crafts Support forum for XCrafts Documentation There is excellent full coverage documentation and built in checklists, including; E-Jets Family by X-Crafts - User Manual _____________________ Aircraft Review by Stephen Dutton 12th May 2023 Copyright©2023: 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 Software: - Windows 11 Pro - X-Plane Version 12.04r3 Plugins: JustFlight-Traffic (X-Plane.OrgStore) US$52.99 : Global SFD plugin US$30.00 : RK Apps XPRealistic v2 - US$34.99 Scenery or Aircraft - LEBL - Barcelona XP by Aerosoft (X-Plane.OrgStore) - US$27.99 - Barcelona City by Logo Projects - (X-Plane.OrgStore) - US$26.95 - LGAV - FlyTampa - Athens (X-Plane.OrgStore) - US$28.00 (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! Updated - New Environmental tool VisualXP Ultimate by SimAdditions This NEWS! item has been updated to cover the new options of package pricing versions, as set out below. Personally I'm not attracted to applications or certainly the Lua app, that have interaction with the basic default X-Plane engine, don't get me started on the hundreds of different shader versions that we had to toil through as everyone had their own perspective on how X-Plane should look... I had hoped with the release of X-Plane 12 and it's new complete environmental engine, those days would be in the past, obviously not. I'm not completely honest here. I used throughout the X-Plane 11 run, the Dark Skies xEnviro, oddly not for it's clouds, but for the interface that allowed you to tune X-Plane's look and feel. Odd is the fact that you can change the look of X-Plane via you Graphics Card (mine is Nvidia), but that only changes your monitor look and feel, and not actually the Simulator's. But with xEnviro you could actually do this management aspect and that is what is important here. Struggling with dark images coming out of X-Plane 12, I found I couldn't adjust them internally, so I missed that xEnviro interface, being honest I don't miss the huge xEnviro sucking down of my framerate either. I had hoped that X-Plane 12 would have put all that in the past? But it didn't, and I struggled with the lighting in X-Plane 12, notable is the fact that X-Plane 12 is still in reality a working beta, but I did miss the interaction I had with xEnviro.... which brings us to this new environmental tool from SimAdditions. VisualXP is a tool that will enhance your X-Plane Atmosphere, Clouds, Water, and Scenery(Lights and Shadow) visually. The Atmosphere feature will enhance the Sun lighting, Ambient lighting, Scattering color temperature, Sky colors, Fog density, Aerosol, Visibility range, Horizon scattering, and Zenith scattering. The Clouds feature can control the cloud formations, clouds visibility range, clouds brightness, clouds density, thickness, cloudiness, and clouds details, all of these will work together to give better clouds forms. The Water feature can control the water wave foams, sun gloss, water wave strength, and scaling. there are sliders to control these functions as well. The Lights feature can simulate real-life fog at night where there are multiple lights that illuminate the fog. We also can Enable one of the great features of X-Plane "the Fog Spotlights" which add realistic spotlights for all objects in X-Plane. we can control the light spots' strength on the ground as well, we have sliders to control the size and the strength of the lights as well as spots lights. A main feature in Lights is "the Fog Spotlights" which add realistic spotlights for all objects in X-Plane. we can control the light spots' strength on the ground as well, we have sliders to control the size and the strength of the lights as well as spots lights. The Weather feature can deliver Live Weather, Weather Search, and Weather Briefings. The Briefing Tab will give you all the weather information including clouds altitudes pressure, all aloft for winds directions, winds speed, temperature, dewpoint, winds share, and turbulence, also the status of the water waves. Notable is tha VisualXP is for Windows Only at this point, again like xEnviro. There are three Variations of VisualXP, which are called "Plugin Levels" these plugins level are "Ultimate, Premium, and Basic". The Ultimate version will include all features of VisualXP, while the other levels have some limitations. The Premium level has the mentioned features except for the "Scenery" Tab (Lights functions and sliders) and the "Weather Briefing" tab which is included in the Weather Master Tab. The Basic level will have an Atmosphere, and Clouds Only. These three variations to give the user the ability to choose the one that fits he/her needs. VisualXP Interface Packages consist of: VisualXP Basic Priced at US$9.99 The basic version only includes: Atmosphere and clouds VisualXP Ultimate Priced at US$25.97 The Full package including Atmosphere and clouds; Water; Scenery; Weather - Live Weather; Weather - Weather Search; Weather - Weather Briefing A considered Simulator tool, and an effective one... Images are Courtesy of SimAdditions VisualXP Support is here SimAdditions Support __________________ Yes!... VisualXP by SimAdditions is now Available from the X-Plane.Org Store here : VisualXP Basic Priced at US$9.99 VisualXP Ultimate Price is US$25.97 Requirements X-Plane 12 Windows Only - Not Compatible with Mac or Linux at this time Things Things To Be Considered Before Buying If you are using DataRefTool or DataRefEditor, you need to disable them before using ViualXP, VisualXP will stop working instantly once one of these plugins is detected as Enabled. and it will inform you with a message in the user interface to disable these plugins. Do not use any other plugin, scripts, or mods that controls one of VisualXP features as that will make conflict and will make bad visuals. The performance will be different from one plugin level to another because of the features that each one has, the higher level will have more performance effects, but no worries with the plugin sliders you can lower the settings to fit your device capacity. The plugin can't work in offline mode, a connection to the internet must be available for the license system and downloading weather. We cannot offer any demos at the moment. The plugin has been developed using the windows 10 platform and will be for windows only at this time, sorry for Mac and Linux users, we will support these platforms in the future. The functions of the plugin can be increased or decreased depending on the X-Plane 12 version and the ability that Laminar Research offers. ___________________________ News! by Stephen Dutton 22nd February 2023 Copyright©2023: 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

Behind the Screen : April 2023 On average over a 20 to 30 year commercial flying career, professional pilots will fly usually about 4 to 5 types of aircraft, first in the right seat, then a command in the left. I'm not counting their non-professional activities like private general aviation, gliding or even to the extreme of aerobatic flying. This is the core total of flying airliners, either domestic or international. Do pilot's have to be more flexible in today's aviation industry? that is a big question, because, say in the 60's you could fly aircraft types from the BAC-1-11, progress to a Trident, then a Vickers VC10, then a Boeing 707 or a Boeing 747 Jumbo, or even on to the supersonic transport in Concorde. That career road would be far harder today, as you would mostly jump between types of the same design, say start in a A319, move to a A320, then a A321 and now an A321LR, you are progressing, but mostly on the same type, not "Types' of aircraft. Same with the A350 or Boeing 787 Dreamliner. Progress to each aircraft type would mean going back to class, instruction, training and finally the hands on evaluation that you could handle the new machine, a jump from say the VC10 to a Boeing 747 would be a large challenge, but nothing like the jump from a VC10 to Concorde, of which most crews of the supersonic transport were nominated from. Today the line between a A320, to a A321, is not as large, and a conversion would be in weeks rather than the months like in the past. Compare that to X-Plane, or with being a reviewer. God knows how many "Types" of aircraft and let us even include even the "weird" strange machines at that. Obviously I have lost count, but a thousand over 12 years is a rounded off figure, maybe even more than that, so you have to be pretty adaptable. Like driving a car, aviation still has it's basics in controls and instruments, so you can be "so called", adaptable. But unlike driving a car on a road, aviation machines comes with a lot of different variations, weights and sizes, again you have to be adaptable. A lot of Simulator users will also mostly stick to one type, or a variation of that type, a lot won't even progress from say a Single-Engined aircraft to a Twin-Engined aircraft, never mind a Commercial Jet. Another crowd will only fly heavies, big airliners, but most will usually use the Two-Hour rule of flying a Boeing 737 (Zibo) or Airbus A319/A320/A321 (ToLiSS), fair enough. Me I do like variety, always have, call it a challenge if you will, I couldn't be a reviewer otherwise. But I do have my core "Top Ten" aircraft that I fly personally, a few General Aviation machines, but mostly Airliners, the bigger the better. Also there is the aspect of getting "back into the groove". You would think with all that reviewing experience and skills, that I would easily slide into the seat and fly the aircraft like a pro, yes... well no, it is not as easy as that. One big bonus of doing reviews in that when a new aircraft or type is released, you do what I call a "Deep Dive". Reviewing in detail allows you to spend a lot of time on that aircraft, sometimes weeks, study it, understanding all those minute details. Then to learn to fly it correctly... then pass on the information of what has been learnt to you the users of the X-PlaneReviews site. You would think that in say six months when the same aircraft from the same developer comes around with an update, with all that intimate knowledge learnt earlier, I should simply slide into the same seat and fly it again perfectly like the total professional I am, except that is very far from the truth. I even make copious notes, the Concorde review notes went for sixteen pages, yet I still need to revisit and revise them all every time to step back into that cockpit. And here is the thing... My first flight back in that seat is usually atrocious, totally laughable... a professional, mostly a joke in watching my efforts. At least I don't have a check captain sitting over my shoulder rating my poor flying abilities, and ready to give my career the total thumbs down. Let's be clear, that is with the complex complicated detailed aircraft we are talking about here, sure I can pilot a GA around a circuit or two with my eyes closed, but something happened in X-Plane around eight years ago when basic PlaneMaker aircraft went to Plugins. Now the systems are real world duplication, so is now the way you also fly the aircraft in real world conditions in the Simulator. Triggers... notes can give you triggers, and then you fly the aircraft and then release all that the stored information in your brain, it does come back to you quite easily, but some machines do have their peculiar idiosyncratic natures, not only in their systems, but their flying characteristics as well, say the Dash Q400... One flight will release the learnt peculiar tricks on using and handling the machine, the notes help, but going over the learnt procedures and you will soon fall back into that aircraft category groove. I'm an odd one as well. I just won't jump in and go flying (unless there is a reason), I go through the whole set of procedures from "Go to Woe", more so with an update (or upgrade) to cover the changes in the new updated/upgraded version, the differences between the Old and the New. That second flight (basically the review flight) is usually "Back on Song", not flawless, but back in tune with the aircraft, the third flight has to be flawless, if not there is something wrong or something has been changed? The only thing about this process, it is time consuming, two flights take time, three flights is in days to do a review, but you internally and personally have to know you have everything right, in the interaction between yourself and the aircraft before reviewing. That is why I don't like a lot of VideoJocks, watching them power through procedures and incorrect flying, and missing SOP's (Standard Operating Procedures) makes me cringe by in the amount of mistakes made, some are very good, and yes even I can learn from a real line pilot doing video Simulations, but most are "Cowboys", and have bad habits that are being passed on to the unsuspecting junior (learning) Simulator users in picking up and using the same poor methodology. Okay, I come from the strict school of being serious, and a lot of users reading this will say, Hey, lighten up, it's supposed to be "Fun" it's only a "Game", but my approach is strictly professional, if you want to "Fool" around and wizz upside down in a A320 (yes looking at you Austin Meyer) then your looking at the wrong personality type, to me "Professional", means being very good at what you do and to not fool around with a 80 Ton aircraft. Simulation was created as learning tool for real world pilots, we are just lucky, and if you have enough computer power, to be able to do the "EXACT" same things as the real world pilots do, that for me is where the excitement comes from, and my on line experiences. Out of the "Thousands" of aircraft I have reviewed, a few go into my own personal hanger, the ones that are very special, but also fit my own personal flying needs, I keep the list to like I mentioned to around ten aircraft, but it is about four to five of those aircraft are what I use consistently, again these aircraft are also required to have a shakedown regularly, and the same process of a "trigger" flight and then a regular flight are required to get me again "Back in the Groove". I know these aircraft intimately, and yet I still need to reset my brain to fly them correctly, lose one or two that has happened with the X-Plane 11 to X-Plane 12 transition and you feel a bit lost without them (both will be released for X-Plane 12 within the next month). Again I will stress that regular repeatable flying is still required to keep your skills in prime shape, yes it is more (even relaxing) fun than the serious approach of reviewing aircraft, but still serious in the way you approach in flying the aircraft professionally. To make it "Fun", is to set up a few scenarios, I have two. The first is a real world day's flying, usually three sectors between regularly used airports (quality sceneries), In Australia say the "Triangle". Brisbane to Melbourne, Melbourne to Sydney and finally Sydney back to Brisbane, all in a days work and following real world services. It's more tricky than you think to fly on real world times and turnarounds with the same aircraft type. Exhausting as well, but that is what real world pilots do everyday, but it is fun to coordinate the lot together... The second is real world airport hopping. Start a service from say Barcelona and fly to Copenhagen, then from Copenhagen to Dubai (combining European to International with different aircraft types), then Dubai to Hong Kong, then Hong Kong to Los Angles and so on... if you wrap up a sector in say New York, then the next time you fly you restart in the same place, say, New York to Copenhagen, and hey, you have flown around the world with real life timetables and the same aircraft types used on the real world routes... both above scenarios are based on real world flying, but for me a fun factor as well. But all learnt during these travels, goes back into the reviewing, and the consistent practise on aircraft types means your skills are kept at a high level. This April "Behind the Screen" edition, looks a bit into how I fly and do reviews, but also shows you the amount of practise it requires to keep your flying skills at a high level, same as the real world pilots... I like to think so, dedication is everything in life. See you all next month. Stephen Dutton 2nd May 2023 Copyright©2023 X-Plane Reviews

Aircraft Review: DeltaWing Simulations CRJ 1000 X-Plane 12 By Michael Hayward Introduction The CRJ 1000, a product of Bombardier Aerospace, represents a remarkable evolution in regional jet design. As the largest and most advanced member of the renowned CRJ family, this stretched model was developed in response to the increasing demand for higher capacity and more fuel-efficient aircraft in the regional aviation market. With a seating capacity of up to 104 passengers, the CRJ 1000 allows airlines to maximize their profitability on medium-haul routes while maintaining a high level of passenger comfort. The decision to stretch the fuselage of the CRJ 1000 was driven by the need to optimize its performance, operational efficiency, and environmental footprint. Equipped with state-of-the-art avionics, aerodynamic enhancements, and powerful engines, the CRJ 1000 delivers a smooth, quiet, and comfortable flying experience for both passengers and crew. Additionally, this aircraft boasts reduced fuel consumption and lower emissions, making it a sustainable choice for the future of regional aviation. Beyond its impressive technical features, the CRJ 1000 also addresses the evolving needs of airlines in terms of route flexibility and fleet management. As carriers continue to adapt their networks and schedules to shifting market dynamics, the CRJ 1000 stands out as a versatile and cost-effective solution. Overall, the development of the stretched CRJ 1000 model showcases Bombardier Aerospace's commitment to innovation and continuous improvement in the highly competitive aviation industry. Developers DeltaWing, a small team of four members, primarily develops high-quality fighter aircraft for the X-Plane platform. Recently, through a collaboration with AD Simulations, they ventured into creating commercial airliners, specifically the Bombardier CRJ family. The Bombardier CRJ is a regional aircraft produced between 1991 and 2020 when Bombardier Aviation decided to exit the commercial aviation industry and focus solely on private jets. With over 1,900 units manufactured, the CRJ family has led the way in low-capacity and high-efficiency jet travel. In this review, we examine DeltaWing's CRJ-1000 and delve into how this team, experienced in virtual military aircraft development, has approached the creation of one of the most successful regional aircraft in aviation history. Aircraft Specification Crew: two Length: 128ft 5in/39.1m Wingspan: 85ft 11in/26.2m Height: 24ft 7in/7.5m Empty Weight: 51,120lbs (23,188kg) Maximum Takeoff Weight: 91,800lbs/41,640kg Powerplant: General Electric CF34-8C5A1 Aircraft Performance: Range: 1,650nmi/3,056km Service Ceiling: 41,000ft Max Cruising Speed: M0.78/473kts/876mph Download & Install The download and installation process for the DeltaWing CRJ is straightforward. After purchasing from the org store, you receive a ZIP file containing the aircraft's components. Simply drag this into your aircraft folder and launch the simulator. Upon the first load, you'll be prompted to enter your serial number. After pasting it and reloading the aircraft, you're all set. The CRJ package includes four documents: two change logs, a checklist, and a comprehensive 90-page 'quick start' guide. This guide covers everything from the aircraft's operation to its various displays and hardware configurations for diverse yokes and joysticks. With its thorough coverage of the CRJ's details, I highly recommend studying this guide when familiarizing yourself with the aircraft. Exterior Model DeltaWing has meticulously crafted the CRJ model to closely resemble the real aircraft. Employing techniques such as bump and specular mapping, the plane features highly detailed markings and panel definitions. The aircraft's surfaces appear clean and impressive from all angles, with each individual detail visible and well-defined – from the rope hooks on the wings to door levers and emergency slide panels, all animated. The CRJ's every detail has been painstakingly replicated, including the aircraft's skeleton beneath the wing, visible when deploying flaps, slats, and speed brakes. Other features include radar fins on the belly, antennae on the tail, APU exhaust at the rear, and AoA and pitot tubes on the nose. No detail has been overlooked, enhancing the aircraft's realism. Upon closer inspection, the level of detail becomes even more apparent. The landing gear is particularly impressive, with each strut and bolt intricately modelled and weathered to resemble a real aircraft with years of service. The tires and contact points with the ground are also accurately depicted, giving the appearance of slight deflation under the plane's weight. High-resolution 4k textures are used throughout, ensuring that even the smallest details appear sharp and visible across the body. Rivets and decals, including 'No Step' markings on the wing, are precisely rendered. The landing gear's attention to detail extends to the tires, which display the Michelin Man and logo through bump mapping. DeltaWing's commitment to producing a high-quality aircraft sets it apart from other developers in the industry. The DeltaWing CRJ comes with a selection of nine liveries, including six airline designs, a Bombardier house colour, and two custom developer colours. The available liveries are as follows: CRJ 1000 House Colors Delta Airlines British Airways Iberia Regional Air France (by Brit Air) Aegean Lufthansa CityLine AD Simulations DeltaWing Simulations These diverse liveries offer a range of options for simmers to choose from, enhancing the overall flying experience. Cockpit & Interior The CRJ cockpit is incredibly well-designed, featuring every detail you'd expect from a high-quality jetliner in X-Plane. DeltaWing has used 4k resolution textures, giving the cockpit a realistic appearance, complete with light weathering and textured glare shields that look fantastic from any position. A combination of buttons and switches are spread across the main and overhead panels, all clearly labelled and easy to navigate. Manipulating aircraft systems is hassle-free, making the CRJ a joy to fly. The add-on comes with a comprehensive EFB tablet system for managing weight and balance through fuel load and passenger count. It offers a weight calculation tool that provides takeoff and landing speeds based on the aircraft's configuration, which is invaluable for ensuring safe operation throughout the flight. The Flight Management Computer (FMC) employs the default X-Plane system, but it has been customized to match the real-life CRJ's style. Though some finer details of aircraft management may be absent, the default X-Plane FMC is widely used for its realism and functionality. DeltaWing intends to upgrade the CRJ's systems with real-world CRJ pilot support, potentially leading to a complete system overhaul in the future. Additionally, the aircraft features a fully modelled cabin interior, arguably one of the best in any flight simulator platform. The standard two-by-two seating layout is accompanied by interactive elements like window shutters, overhead lockers, and cabin lighting controls. There's also a lavatory at the rear and a flight attendant's jump seat that can be slid in and out of position. DeltaWing has exceeded expectations by including such attention to detail, even though many developers maintain a basic cabin for smoother operation and fewer polygons to model. If you enjoy experiencing the flight from a passenger's perspective, you'll appreciate the effort DeltaWing has put into the CRJ. Sound DeltaWing has integrated authentic CRJ aircraft recordings into this add-on, delivering a high-quality and immersive sound experience both inside and outside the plane. FMOD has been employed to ensure accurate audio positioning relative to the listener. In the cockpit, engine noises are less pronounced due to the distance between the pilots and the rear-mounted engines. However, they remain audible, contributing to the immersive pilot experience. As you move towards the back of the cabin, the engine noise becomes increasingly noticeable, peaking when you're near the engines with throttles at full power. The exterior sounds are equally impressive, featuring genuine CRJ sound samples skillfully integrated into X-Plane. The use of FMOD enhances the aircraft's realism, and the sound samples are of high quality, with no detectable loops. The combination of these elements results in a truly lifelike auditory experience. Flight Dynamics The CRJ is a joy to fly, thanks to its narrow body and relatively lightweight design for a jetliner, which make it agile and suitable for shorter runways. The CRJ-1000, being the longest in the Bombardier Canadair Regional Jet series, takes some getting used to when taxiing, especially given the position of the nose and rear gear. However, once familiar, manoeuvring the aircraft is not a problem. It's worth noting that the CRJ lacks autothrottle due to the engine's small size. As a result, pilots must manually manage throttles during different flight stages. This can be advantageous during descent, allowing for precise control over speed and descent rate. During cruise, the CRJ is a stable aircraft with no noticeable irregularities in its flight dynamics. The autopilot systems are capable of guiding the aircraft from point A to point B, with minimal pilot input other than engine management. Approach and landing in the CRJ require careful manoeuvring due to its T-mounted tailplane. Over-rotating the aircraft may lead to a deep stall, where the front wings obstruct airflow to the engines. However, this issue is unlikely to occur unless the aircraft is pitched unrealistically. With practice, pilots can consistently achieve smooth landings. Valencia to Murcia To truly appreciate the Nostrum CRJ 1000 in X-Plane, I planned a short flight from Valencia Airport (LEVC) to Murcia (LELC), which would take roughly 30 minutes at cruising speed. With the aircraft fueled and passengers onboard, I taxied to runway 12 at Valencia. As I lined up on the runway, I set takeoff power, and the CRJ 1000 accelerated swiftly. Rotate speed came up at 125 KIAS, and the aircraft smoothly lifted off the ground. Once airborne, I set the climb speed to 250 KIAS, with a climb rate of approximately 2000 feet per minute. During the climb, the view of the Spanish landscape was mesmerizing. The CRJ 1000's large windows provided an exceptional view of the fields, villages, and winding roads below. Cruising at 25,000 feet, I had the opportunity to experience the aircraft's performance and systems. As I approached Murcia, I began my descent and prepared for an approach to runway 05. The weather had become overcast, with spots of rain. Despite the changing weather, the CRJ 1000 handled wonderfully during the final approach and touchdown. The landing was smooth, and I taxied to the ramp and shut down the engines, thoroughly satisfied with the performance and handling of the aircraft in the X-Plane. Night Lighting & Performance X-Plane, throughout its recent history, has consistently excelled in delivering realistic night lighting for both its default aircraft and scenery, as well as the many add-ons available, and the DeltaWings CRJ is no exception to this rule. The model features excellent night lighting in the cockpit and passenger compartment, along with exterior lights. The authenticity of these lighting effects is further enhanced by the fact that during my testing, I didn't seem to experience any performance penalty. With an Nvidia RTX 3080 graphics card and a Ryzen 3600 processor, I consistently observed exceptionally good framerates, free from lags or spikes. Opinion & Closing Remarks Overall, the DeltaWing's CRJ-10 00 is a fantastic experience. The degree of detail and care invested in this model is quite uncommon in the world of flight simulation. Priced at $50 for each variant (with a 30% discount for those who already own their -700 & -900 models and vice versa), the cost might seem high for a regional jet within X-Plane. However, the quality you receive makes it a worthwhile purchase. While CRJ models have come and gone in X-Plane, it appears that we finally have one that meets the challenge in terms of detail and functionality. Although a custom FMS unit for the aircraft would be a welcome addition in the future, this minor issue doesn't detract from the overall excellence of the DeltaWing CRJ. It's a fantastic aircraft, and I highly recommend it to anyone interested in regional flying. ______________________________________ The DeltaWing CRJ-1000 for X-Plane 12 is available from the Org store here: CRJ-1000 Priced at US$49.95 Features (not limited to): General Notes Basic Systems are programmed based on CRJ-1000 aircraft. In subsequent updates, we are making systems deeper and adding new ones. CRJ real-life pilots and a few simulator enthusiasts are helping us to develop and make them work properly Flight Control Panel knobs support fast scrolling via left mouse button press and hold and precise scrolling via mouse wheel scroll All switches now support new manipulators with Above/Below click for UP/DOWN movement and mouse wheel scroll Mode Control Panel SPEED and other modes simulate the real Autopilot modes on the CRJs. Implemented Electrical System Circuit Breakers are all animated and ready to perform certain actions accordingly to their function in future updates Tablet/EFB on Captain and FO sides Functional Audio Control Panel with lit buttons and animations Rectangular and Arrows Flight Director Command Bars as an Options MFD Multifunction Display can display the following modes HSI The horizontal situation indicator shows the compass card with overlaid selectable navaids, bearing and course pointers NAV SECTOR Navigation display with compass card and a background map. The navigation display shows course pointer and deviation bar. VOR bearing and DME distance information are shown FMS MAP Flight Management System Map shows the track and waypoints programmed in the CDU (Control Display Unit). FMS MAP shows the aircraft heading. TCAS Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System investigates the air traffic control transponders of nearby airplanes and identifies and displays potential and predicted collision threats. FMS PLAN MAP shows programmed waypoints of the route. Shows north at the top of the display. Waypoints can be selected by using the UP and DOWN arrows on CDU (Control Display Unit) RADAR- to be implemented in future versions Flight Model The flight model has been carefully adjusted to match the real-life CRJ-900. Real-life CRJ-200/700/900 pilots were involved in the process. Realistic wing flex Wing Flex has been modelled and adjusted for realistic aircraft behaviour. FMS FMS and its Pop-Up are customized as far as look but based on the Default X-Plane one. Note: Default XP FMC is based on the Collins FMS-4200 and CRJ is using that one, no Honeywell and Thales types. 3D Modeling and Textures Almost all maps are 4K High Resolution. The exterior is modelled with all details existing in real aircraft. Pilots are visible in external views and turn their heads slightly towards the camera view. Interior modelling has been made paying attention to details in the real-life CRJ-900 cockpit. The cabin and Stairs have adjustable lighting, see above. The liveries included in the package are listed below Aegean Airlines, American Eagle, CRJ, Delta, Horizon, IBEX Ana, Lufthansa, Scandinavian 1, Scandinavian 2, Spirit. Unique Package Features Stairs Rails can be raised and lowered (per customer request). Cockpit shaders slide and rotate as you need them. All Windows Shades, Overhead Bins and Seat Trays are animated and functional. VR Compatibility The package is VR-compatible. Requirements: X-Plane 12 Only (not for XP11) Windows, Mac, or Linux 4 GB VRAM Minimum - 8 GB+ VRAM Recommended Download Size: 1 GB Current version: 1.0 (March 8th, 2023) Reviewers System: Windows 10 Professional AMD Ryzen 5 3600 Processor 32GB RAM Palit GeForce RTX™ 3080 GamingPro Aircraft Review by Michael Hayward  29th April 2023 Copyright©2023: 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)  

Scenery Review: PAJN - Juneau International, Alaska by Northern Sky Studio By Joshua Moore Introduction Aviation has played a vital role in Alaska for nearly a century, providing essential transportation services such as cargo, charter flights, medevac, airlines, and backcountry flights to remote towns. Juneau, Alaska's capital, first welcomed an aeroplane in 1920—a DH-4 biplane from the renowned Army's Black Wolf squadron. This marked the beginning of aviation in the region, with Juneau's airport evolving over time to accommodate growing demand and larger aircraft. By the late 1920s, Juneau established a basic grass landing strip, and in 1932, Alaska Southern Airways was founded, offering a direct connection to Seattle using a Lockheed Vega on floats. The airport experienced multiple airline mergers and expansions over the years, including a significant expansion project during World War II, which allowed the airport to support larger aircraft. In 1949, the first passenger terminal was opened, and the airport returned to civilian control in 1953. By the late 1950s and early 1960s, airlines like Pan Am, Alaska Airlines, and Western Airlines were operating jet airliners at Juneau's airport. The 1980s saw the addition of a full taxiway, Taxiway Alpha, to the runway. Today, Juneau International Airport is serviced by two major airlines, Alaska and Delta, and is home to Alaska Seaplanes. The airport accommodates around 600,000 passengers annually and transports millions of pounds of food and cargo to Seattle and Anchorage. Northern Sky is proud to introduce a highly detailed Juneau scenery for X-Plane simmers. The return of Juneau's spectacular approach and the surrounding scenery is an exciting development for fans of the region (myself included). First Impressions The installation process for Juneau is straightforward, consisting of one primary download folder for the airport and an optional link for a prebuilt ortho tile that is highly recommended to enhance the overall experience. To install, simply extract the contents into your custom scenery folder, which has a size of 3.81GB—typical for an airport of this size. The installation manual is more of a pamphlet, containing the same information found on the download page in your account. Note: be aware that I am utilizing simHeaven's freely available X-World America add-on in combination with the airport scenery, so please take this into account while observing screenshots of the city and wider areas. Upon my first time loading the simulator with the Juneau scenery, I was pleasantly surprised to see a passenger gazing out at the aeroplane from the terminal. This airport offers a unique feature not commonly found in X-Plane sceneries: a terminal interior. The terminal interior is exceptionally well-executed, featuring high-quality texturing throughout and a keen attention to detail. The inclusion of local artwork on passenger elevators adds an authentic touch, enhancing the overall atmosphere. The art-adorned walls and wooden flooring contribute to a cohesive and visually appealing design, demonstrating the care taken in creating an immersive environment. The superb modelling, combined with the texturing, creates a rich atmosphere in the terminal. One striking element is the impressive hanging bird models on the ceiling, which capture the essence of the local area. Scattered around the terminal, well-designed 3D character models can be found. Although their clothing seems more suited to a warmer climate, these characters add a sense of life and activity to the space. The control tower, like the main terminal building, is well-modelled and displays various consoles used by air traffic controllers. Situated high up, the tower's 360-degree glass windows not only provide stunning views of the surrounding area but also offer a realistic vantage point for those interested in the daily operations of the airport. Overall, the terminal's carefully crafted design elements come together to create a memorable and engaging experience for simmers. Initially, I was concerned about the performance impact, but I was pleased to discover that there was hardly any FPS drop during the daytime. However, the FPS decreased slightly at night due to the extensive light rendering inside the building. In terms of graphics, the scenery resembled Microsoft Flight Simulator (MSFS) airport sceneries, which was somewhat unusual but a welcome enhancement for smaller airports. Exploring The Airport The airport's overall appearance and integration with its surroundings are impressive, and the seamless blending with the ortho is remarkable. Having experienced this airport in FS2004, it is fantastic to see it again with such high-quality detail. The texturing appears well-blended from a distance, and nothing seems out of place. While the water has some graphical issues due to X-Plane's new water handling method, this is an ortho issue with X-Plane rather than a fault of the scenery. The terminal details are exceptional, with an intricately detailed interior featuring a wide variety of textures and polygons combined to create a highly realistic environment on both the roadside and jet side. The modelling is well-executed, and all elements fit together seamlessly. The exterior model is equally impressive, with fine details and a stunning backdrop of the Tongass mountains. The general aviation (GA) hangars maintain the same high-quality standard, with the Alaska Seaplanes hangar open and displaying a few static aircraft. Although I'm not typically a fan of static aeroplanes, they add a nice touch of life to the airport in this case. One minor point worth mentioning is the taxiway signs, which are the default X-Plane signs. To enhance the resolution of the signage, I highly recommend using MisterX's airport environment replacement taxi sign textures. Textures The texturing at this airport is among the best available for X-Plane, featuring high-resolution 2K textures for nearly the entire airport and meticulous attention to detail on various surfaces of the 3D objects. The terminal interior is particularly noteworthy, offering an abundance of textures covering all surfaces. However, the numerous interior lights at night led to a minor drop in FPS on my system. The ramp, taxiway, and runway textures are a balanced combination of default Laminar textures and custom textures by Northern Sky, with taxiway signage defaulting to Laminar. The dirt and weathering effects are well placed, albeit slightly predictable, but contribute to a better overall blending of the airport. The ground poly has a good resolution and integrates well with the provided ortho, serving as an excellent starting point for those new to ortho scenery. Although some screenshots may appear to have blurry textures, this is primarily due to Laminar's ongoing VRAM optimization issues. When I switched to a smaller aeroplane, the textures became significantly sharper. I hardly noticed any major details requiring higher resolution and was overall impressed with the texturing and appearance. It's important to note that any clipping in the water is a result of X-Plane 12's improper handling of orthos, which is still on Laminar's to-do list and will be addressed in the future. Lighting The lighting at this airport is generally excellent, but it does have some impact on performance, particularly in terms of FPS. The ramp is well-lit, the custom approach lights function correctly, and the overall night-time ambience is impressive. However, as mentioned earlier, the terminal interior's lighting causes some FPS drops at night. I experienced a loss of 3-8 FPS depending on my viewpoint, and while this may not seem substantial, it can affect the overall feel of the simulator, given that X-Plane typically runs at 30-40 FPS. It's worth noting that the lighting system by Laminar may be responsible for this performance impact, as it is known to be slightly FPS-intensive and has caused issues in the past. As such, any improvements to the lighting system would likely need to come from them. Conclusion After a long absence of quality Juneau scenery, I am thrilled that Northern Sky Studios has taken the initiative to bring it to X-Plane. As one of the top developers of Alaskan airports, Northern Sky Studios has done a fantastic job creating an authentic Alaskan feel, capturing the airport's atmosphere beautifully with great attention to detail. The airport is rendered in a way that is both detailed and FPS-friendly, making it a welcome addition to my simulator. Priced at $18.00, this scenery offers excellent value for an airport of its size. I eagerly await Northern Sky Studios' next release, and perhaps they will venture south to a certain Washington state city with three parallel runways. Fingers crossed! ________________________ PAJN - Juneau International, Alaska by Northern Sky Studio is now available from the X-Plane.Org Store here: PAJN - Juneau International, Alaska Priced at US$18.00 Features: The most detailed replica of airport buildings and vehicles High resolution ground textures / Custom runway textures High resolution building textures Compatible with all X-Plane 12 features Custom working jetways Custom mesh for the airport area (Ortho4XP) All materials created for full PBR Shading and occlusion (texture baking) effects on all airport buildings High-resolution building textures Custom orthophoto for the airport and surrounding areas World Traffic 3 compatible Not compatible with a default mesh (custom ortho link included) Requirements X-Plane 12 or X-plane 11 Windows, Mac or Linux 4 GB VRAM Minimum - 8 GB+ VRAM Recommended Download Size: 3.4 GB Current version : 1.0 (January 9th 2023) Review System Specifications Windows 11 Ryzen 5800x RTX 3070Ti 32GB RAM __________________________________ Scenery Review by Joshua Moore 6th April 2023 Copyright©2023: 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.

Familiar ground. In January of 1974 I made the opening announcement "Kenai tower is now in operation". At the time I was on loan from Merrill tower in Anchorage and the new chief had been a supervisor at Merrill. It wasn't blue then and the airport was a lot less than it appears now. Here's me, spring of '74, in front of the new tower with my little Clipper.