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Aircraft Review: Short SC7 Skyvan by X-Hangar Written by Dominic Smith Introduction As an X-Plane user and aviation enthusiast, I am excited to introduce the Shorts Skyvan, an iconic and versatile utility aircraft, wonderfully recreated by X-Hangar for X-Plane. First flown in 1963, the Skyvan was designed by Short Brothers (usually referred to as Shorts), a renowned British aerospace company with a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. Known for their innovative and robust aircraft designs, Shorts created the Skyvan to address the growing demand for a versatile and rugged short takeoff and landing (STOL) aircraft capable of operating in a variety of environments. Over the years, more than 150 Skyvans were produced, serving various roles such as cargo transportation, military operations, and even skydiving platforms. The Skyvan’s simple, yet endearing boxy design, excellent short-field performance, and ease of maintenance have made it a popular choice among operators worldwide, so I’m extremely pleased to see it make its way into X-Plane. X-Hangar’s Skyvan comes with an array of features to enhance the simulation experience; somewhat of a trademark when it comes to their models. These include the ability to choose between passenger or cargo loads through an easy-to-use menu, animated pilot and copilot models that load with added weight, and the option to add passengers or cargo with corresponding payload weight adjustments. Additionally, the model includes interactive doors, a detailed checklist to follow in the simulator, a user manual in PDF format, international liveries, and a blank livery template for custom paint jobs. Some other noteworthy features of this Skyvan are the inclusion of a GPU, a jeep vehicle, various cargo load objects, suitcases for the passenger-cargo hold, and a porta-potty with a functional door (something I thankfully didn’t need to use during my testing). To further enhance the experience, X-Hangar has provided an FSE file, a Garmin 530 GPS, a Stec55 autopilot, and rain effects for both X-Plane 11 and 12, with rain wipers available for X-Plane 12. Exterior Before taking off, I decided to take a moment to admire the exterior of the Skyvan. Stepping outside the aircraft, I was immediately impressed by X-Hangar's attention to detail in replicating the Skyvan's unique design, which features a high wing, twin-turboprop engines, and as previously mentioned, a boxy fuselage. As I walked around the aircraft, I noticed the well-crafted 3D model, which highlighted the Skyvan's sturdy landing gear, designed to handle rough and unprepared runways with ease. The twin turboprop engines, mounted on either side of the fuselage, were intricately modelled, complete with propellers and exhaust pipes. The Skyvan's characteristic T-tail design was also accurately depicted, giving the aircraft its distinctive appearance. The exterior textures of X-Hangar's Skyvan are of high quality, delivering a realistic representation of the aircraft with various liveries, sixteen in total (seventeen if you include the paint kit). Unfortunately, none of the included liveries featured any weathering, which would have added to the authenticity of this age-old aircraft. Nonetheless, this omission does not detract from the overall enjoyment of flying the Skyvan, but it would have been nice to see some weathering to truly capture its character. The model also featured interactive elements, such as doors that could be opened with a simple click, allowing for a more immersive experience. I also took a moment to appreciate the additional objects included with the model, such as the GPU and Jeep vehicle, which added to the overall realism of the simulation. The cargo load objects and suitcases were a nice touch, giving the aircraft a sense of purpose and functionality beyond just flying. Interior When it comes to the interior, X-Hangar's Skyvan strikes a perfect balance between functionality and realism. The developer has incorporated both pilot and copilot models, as well as 3D passengers, to create a lifelike atmosphere within the aircraft. While the texturing and modelling lean more towards functionality rather than ultra-realism, the overall result is quite impressive and particularly beneficial when VRAM performance is paramount. The Garmin 530 GPS and Stec55 autopilot systems add a touch of modernism to the Skyvan's cockpit, providing X-Plane users with reliable and user-friendly navigation tools. The combination of these advanced systems with the Skyvan's classic charm offers an enjoyable flying experience that caters to a wide range of virtual pilots' preferences. As well as the above, the developer has also introduced new rain effects which significantly enhance the visual experience during adverse weather conditions. These effects contribute to the overall immersion and realism of the simulator, creating an even more engaging environment for virtual pilots to explore. Flight Characteristics Prior to takeoff, I completed the necessary checks, ensuring that the trims were set for takeoff, fuel levels were adequate, flaps were configured as required, and all flight instruments were functioning correctly. I also verified that the ammeters were charging and that the flying controls were free and functioning properly. As I taxied towards the runway, I noticed the Skyvan's responsive nose wheel steering and its ability to handle taxiway turns with ease. Its moderate size and excellent visibility from the cockpit made it easy to navigate around the airport, even in tighter spaces. Upon reaching the runway, I completed the runway checks by ensuring that all doors were closed and secured, anti-icing systems were set as required, and the RPM levers were in the "Take-off" position. I also checked the engine instruments and set the power levers to Maximum Takeoff Power (MTOP). As I began the takeoff roll, the Skyvan accelerated steadily, and I could feel the aircraft's powerful twin-turboprop engines working to lift the aircraft off the ground. The responsive controls allowed for smooth rotation, and the aircraft's relatively short takeoff distance made it clear why the Skyvan is renowned for its STOL capabilities. Once airborne, I raised the flaps and ensured that the nose wheel steering was straight. The Skyvan's climb performance was impressive, and its stable flight characteristics made it easy to maintain the desired pitch attitude and airspeed during the initial climb. The Skyvan, a high-wing and somewhat unwieldy design, is known for its ruggedness and utilitarian attributes rather than its speed or agility. As such, the aircraft felt relatively heavy and turned rather slowly during testing. However, this is typical for a utility aircraft like the Skyvan, which is designed to operate in short-field environments and transport cargo or passengers in tight spaces. Despite the slower handling, the Skyvan proved to be quite stable in the cruise phase, with minimal oscillations or turbulence. Its high-wing design provided excellent visibility below the aircraft, making it ideal for observation, aerial photography, or other similar missions. The cockpit itself offered good visibility, with large windows that allowed for a clear view of the surroundings. The instrument panel was logically arranged, enabling easy monitoring of the aircraft's systems and navigation instruments. In terms of power management and fuel efficiency, the Skyvan's performed as expected. The turboprop engines provided ample power to maintain the desired altitude and airspeed, while the aircraft's fuel consumption was within the expected range for its design and purpose. Before initiating the landing sequence, I performed the landing checks, ensuring the fuel booster pumps were on, engines were within EGT limits, wheel brakes were checked, and flaps were set as required. I also checked the security and cabin signs (no screams were heard). During the final approach, I adjusted the flaps and RPM levers as needed and ensured the nose wheel steering was straight. Upon landing, I set the RPM levers to taxi, adjusted the flaps, and confirmed the wheel brakes and anti-icing systems were functioning properly as per the checklist. After coming to a complete stop, I conducted the shutdown checks, ensuring all systems were turned off and secured. Performance When it comes to performance, X-Hangar's Skyvan for X-Plane truly shines. Developed using Plane Maker, the model is optimized to deliver excellent performance even on modest hardware (unlike some resource-heavy models created in Blender, A3CD, etc). This optimization ensures that users with various system capabilities can enjoy a seamless flying experience without encountering framerate issues. During my testing, the Skyvan performed flawlessly on my system. I encountered no framerate loss, spikes, or pauses throughout my testing, which speaks volumes about the optimization work done by the developer. Conclusion In summing up, the Shorts Skyvan by X-Hangar offers an engaging and realistic simulation experience for aviation enthusiasts and casual simmers alike. With its impressive array of features, excellent flight performance, and accessibility on modest hardware, this Skyvan model is a valuable addition to any X-Plane user's virtual hangar. The classic look of the cockpit, combined with the rich history of the Shorts Skyvan, adds to the charm and allure of this iconic aircraft. It's worth noting that if you're an X-Plane user who demands the latest and greatest graphical models, or your liveries must include weathering, then the Skyvan may not be for you. However, for everyone else who appreciates the unique capabilities, history, and versatility of this extraordinary aircraft, it's a lovely model that provides an enjoyable and rewarding flight experience. The Skyvan's adaptability makes it an interesting aircraft to fly in X-Plane, presenting simmers with various opportunities to explore different aspects of aviation, such as cargo transportation, passenger services, and special mission operations. The meticulous attention to detail in the model's design and functionality ensures an immersive experience that honours the legacy of this remarkable aircraft. ________________________ The Short SC7 Skyvan by X-Hangar is now available from the X-Plane.Org Store here: Short SC7 Skyvan Priced at US$22.95 Features The model supports both passenger or cargo loads activated by a menu. Passenger load is default Pilot and copilot models that load with added weight Passengers load with added payload weight Cargo loads with added payload weight Doors open with a click Detailed checklist to follow in the simulator (default x-plane) User manual for x-plane in .pdf format International liveries Easy to paint your own liveries with blank provided Layers included for painting liveries. Adjust transparency to suit your needs. GPU included and activated with external power on Jeep vehicle included and activated with near max weight Various cargo load objects Suitcases that load and stack with added weight in the passenger cargo hold Porta pot included with opening and closing door FSE file provided so you can go fly right away Garmin 530 GPS with pop-up or use buttons Stec55 autopilot Nice frame rates 60+ Rain effects for both v11 and v12. v11 limited to win vulkan Rain wipers for v12 Better taxi and landing lights for v12 Requirements X-Plane 12 or X-Plane 11 (both versions available) Windows, Mac or Linux 4 GB VRAM Minimum - 8GB+ VRAM Recommended Download Size: 279 MB Current version 12 (April 7th 2023) Review System Specifications Intel i5 10400 – 32GB RAM - Nvidia Asus RTX 3060 – Windows 10 Home 64 Bit __________________________________ Aircraft Review by Dominic Smith 20th 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.

That's a great looking Skyvan model - looks like X-Hangar put a lot of effort into it, well done!

NEWS! - Aircraft Released X-Plane 12 : King Air 350i by AirFoilLabs AirFoilLabs have released their second aircraft for X-Plane 12 in the Beechcraft King Air 350i. Their earlier X-Plane 12 aircraft release was the C172 NG Digital back in October 2022. The King Air 350 is based on the King Air 300 with a 3.4 ft (1.0 m) span increase and winglets, a 2.9 ft (0.88 m) fuselage stretch for an over 17 ft (5.2 m) main cabin, long enough for double club seating. By 1988, Beechcraft had begun work on the replacement for the 300, it was introduced in 1990 and initially marketed as the Super King Air 350. All 350's (350i, 350ER) used twin Turboprop PWC PT6A-60A engines at 1,050 shp / 783 kW - Maximum cruise speed310 kt / 574 km/h. The AirfoilLabs aircraft come with their own unique plugin architecture, called X-Jet, it is a plugin system for X-Plane that provides licensing, software distribution, and automatic updates as well as full integration in X-Plane via the newest X-Plane SDK. It works on Windows, Mac, and Linux. This release is noted as an "Upgrade", as it is a standalone X-Plane 12 release, however owners of the previous King Air 350 XP11 can get the new XP12 version for only $29.95. X-Plane 12 - New Features! Introducing the ultimate software overhaul for an unparalleled flight experience! Our latest update brings a suite of exciting enhancements, fixes, and features that will take your simulation to new heights: * New Custom Failures Logic * Flight Model Rebuild from Scratch * New Engine Logic and Performance * 3D Model and Texturing Enhancements * Windshield Rain, Ice, and Wipers * Anti-Ice System Redesign * New Governors, Prop Pitch, and Feathering Logic * FMOD Sound Updates and New Features * Enhanced Cam Implemented * Pressurization System Fix + Explosive Depressurization Failure * Automated Checklists Fixes * It is a STUDY SIM level aircraft. * But you don’t have to be intimidated by the complexity of the systems - You are always just one click from the sky. If you are a deep learner and enthusiast, you can plunge yourself and study complicated systems in detail. All this is possible down to our super-friendly interface logic. * Stopping the aircraft, starting the engines, was never easier. But if you like a specific state of the aircraft, you can choose, for example, the Before Taxi state or Save and Load your own state. Designed by AirfoilLabs Support forum for the King Air 350 XP12 Images are courtesy of AirFoilLabs This is only an X-Plane 12 aircraft! The AirFoilLabs King Air 350 XP11 is also available, but not both in the one package. ________________ Yes! the KING AIR 350i for X-Plane 12 by AirFoilLabs is NOW available from the X-Plane.Org Store here : KING AIR 350i for X-Plane 12 Price is US$49.95 Owners of the previous King Air 350 XP11 can get the new XP12 version for only $29.95. No coupons required, the discounted price will show when you are logged in. if you don't see the discount please contact X-Plane.OrgStore sales. Requirements X-Plane 12 (not compatible with X-Plane 11) Windows, Mac Intel, Mac Silicon, or Linux 4 GB VRAM Minimum - 8 GB+ VRAM Recommended Current version: 1.6 Beta (April 13th 2023) Requires the full X-Jet Installation via the AFL (AirFoilLabs Product Manager) ________________ News by Stephen Dutton 14th 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) All Right Reserved.

Aircraft Update - C172 NG Digital X-Plane 12 by AirfoilLabs This is Version 1.4.0-Beta of AirfoilLabs Cessna NG 172SP, and an aircraft with X-Plane 12 elements as part of the package. It is signed as a "Beta" version and not as a X-Plane 12 compliant aircraft, it works and flies (actually very well) in X-Plane 12, but as the development Beta goes on, this is not the final form of the aircraft for X-Plane 12. The C172SP NG Digital was introduced into X-Plane 11, early December 2021, so it is basically only 10 months old. It comes with a very extensive package of features (yes the feature list is one of the longest in X-Plane), but also brilliant modelling and quality detail. A full comprehensive review of the X-Plane 11 aircraft release is here: Aircraft Review : C172SP NG DIGITAL by AirfoilLabs With the introduction of the KingAir 350. AirfoilLabs also introduced their own plugin system called XJet. (most developers use the SASL System). Which can be a tricky thing to do and that proved to be just so as the Plugin on release was quite buggy in the KA 350 aircraft. But this is now a few years on, I found this time around that the XJet Plugin is now very refined (now up to version v2.0.0) To use the XJet System you have to download the "Product Manager" program and install it on your computer: Product Manager / Xjet 2..0.0) The installer can be downloaded in all Windows (.exe), Mac OS (.app) and Linux (.Jar) forms for your own type of operating System. Notable is that for X-Plane 12, is that you have to download a new "Product Manger" for X-Plane 12... which can be done when you update or purchase the C172 SP aircraft. So it is a completely new install for X-Plane 12. The "Product Manger" is installed in your X-Plane/Plugins folder, and is accessible via the Banner/Plugins Menu. If the aircraft is available it will show up in the Product Manager, the initial release version is v1.4.0-Beta, just select to load... First you must find the X-Plane 12 "Aircraft" install address, then insert your authorisation number (key), if correct you will get a "Activated" signal. Then you install the aircraft remotely which is around a download of 1.2Gb in size... to wrap up the installation, you have to agree to the "License Agreement". The Startup screen with a rotating aircraft scenario (You can disable this startup option if you want to) is still quite impressive. First a few notes... This review is in X-Plane 12 v12.7b (brand new Beta). Secondly I was only going to do a orientation flight (YBBN - Brisbane to YBCG-Gold Coast), but it looked so good I switched it around for it to be the main update review... it is "Dark" or darker that what I usually put out (Sorry about that), but the visuals deserved to be seen with the real weather exactly the same as outside my window, but in also being an early dawn flight. "It hits you between the eyes". WOW it was so dramatic, sensational with the AirFoilLabs C172 SP in X-Plane 12... Great morning for a flight! X-Plane 12's clouds here are overwhelmingly good, and yes as noted in being exactly like it is outside my window, heavy low cloud with breaks of light. X-Plane 12 lighting (external) is still not right here, so don't look at the taxi/landing lights as the final version. Notable is that the toe-brakes are now more refined, and not as so sharp, so softer means more control while taxiing and even for the initial start of the takeoff run. Just look at that centre image, the realism is now utterly simply unbelievable, "Viva X-Plane 12"... Once clear of the field (YBBN) you track south. The main feature (Besides X-Plane 12) in this release is the "External Camera Enhancements" and "Internal Camera Enhancements" (G-Forces), that can be found on the "Settings" menu panel. Note the lower new adjustment selection for the toe-brakes. On the External effect, you get a pull to the tail on the animation (note, if you start up in the earlier rotating aircraft scenario, it is best to turn the feature off, as it interferes with the rotation effect?) Internally you get movement to the G-Forces, and they are very similar to the XPRealistic Effects. We have complained about X-Plane's weak weather for as long as I can remember, but you have to admit X-Plane 12's weather engine here is bloody impressive! Real clouds with real immersion, I'm totally in love. X-Plane 12 features include a total rebuild of the Flight Model from the ground up for XP12, with new (dynamic) Airfoils. There are also new Weight & Balance corrections, Failures and the Wear (and tear) is better tuned and sensational X-Plane 12 Rain, Fog, and Ice effects are also now active on the aircraft. The modern FMOD system is now better in FMOD2, but still with the 320 sounds plus all the detailed layered engine samples and full audible failures. 360º dynamic sounds are also still spectacular, if the best in the business, so yes of course I really like them. G1000 custom features compatibility for XP12, including the new ATC boundaries, and I like the "GARMIN" titles as well for authenticity. Both PFD and MFD displays can not only pop-up (out), but can be separated and lose their bevels for Home Builders. We mentioned the new "Flight Model" before and basically I think it is excellent, but currently overshadowed by the Beta issues, as I find excessive wind (at all levels) is not currently realistic, so it is pretty hard to make judgements while being thrown around the cabin, ditto the internal lighting, which still feels too dark. Lighting fully adjusted it doesn't really affect the cabin much? But this is not a developers issue(s) but Laminar Beta issues, so ignore them. The cabin textures have been tweaked for X-Plane 12, and they feel basic compared to say Aerobask, but still in tune with a basic C172SP in trim. Overall the cabin fitout and detail is impressive. I hit the coast just south of Surfers (Paradise), then a turn right to line up to YBCG (Gold Coast) Rwy 14... Burleigh Hill, then Palm Beach and over Currumbin Creek, now on finals. I'm fighting excessive wind, but with only 2 knts on the instruments says something's not right with the Beta? "Steady, Steady", The AirfoilLabs C172SP is incredible to fly, you have complete control and a perfect balance to show off your flying skills, realism 101. It is why you do simulation. You want that totally realistic experience and the level of immersion goes up every year, but with X-Plane 12, you have jumped a graded few years into the future, but that futuristic realism is available here to you now. VR compatibility is now also initiated on the AirFoilLabs C172SP for X-Plane 12, so you can go even deeper if you have a Vertical Reality setup. Landing is tricky with the crosswind, but the revised Landing Gear forces have been given a tune-up in X-Plane 12 to give you more feel on the touch. Note the realistic exhaust effects, I like the way the effect changes to the power outputs. The menu options list is sensational, the best in the business. There are also 47 liveries provided with the 172, yes FORTY SEVEN. That covers most areas that has this aircraft still in operation. The USA gets the bulk of the action with 23 liveries, the rest are Europe (but only one G- Rego) and two in Australia. Four are shown here. At the bottom of the internal view icon is the "QuickLook" system. Here you can assign keys or a HAT SWITCH with the AirfoilLab's Camera Commands to navigate visually more quickly around internally in the aircraft, you can customise the view settings as well... it is just another take on the X-Plane Number views system, but with far more options. This has also been revised for X-Plane 12. "It's love at first flight"... _____________________ Summary Only ten months since it's X-Plane 11 release in December 2021, and here is the AirFoilLabs Cessna 172SP update version for X-Plane 12. Notable that this version (v1.4.0-Beta) is the X-Plane 12 Beta configuration, and not the full compatible version for X-Plane 12. The C172SP comes with a very extensive package of features (yes the feature list is one of the longest in X-Plane), but also brilliant modelling and high quality in detail. This X-Plane 12 update is free for current X-Plane 11 purchasers, but you have to download a new version of the "Product Manager" to install the aircraft for X-Plane 12. New features include; External Camera Enhancements and Internal Camera Enhancements (G-Forces), VR Capability, Toe Brake refinement, better internal textures, and no bezels on the G-100 avionics package. X-Plane 12 revisions include; New Flight Model (very good), New Airfoils, better Wear and Tear simulations, Rain, Fog and Ice, Landing Gear forces retuned and G-1000 X-Plane 12 capability. Although already a very highly featured package with a huge amount of detail, the AirFoilLabs C172SP delivers now even more in X-Plane 12. The Cessna looks sensational in the new X-Plane version, and flies far better as well. This was the most immersive and hugely realistic flight I have done yet in X-Plane 12. It was simply really overwhelmingly brilliant, those cloud and skyscapes bring home the real 3d effect of flying an aircraft in a simulator. I'm not going to shy away from the niggles of the Beta v12B7 here. They create over strong winds, dark interiors and shakes to the aircraft that are not realistic. But the brilliant totally overwhelms the niggles, this is the future of X-Plane Simulation, and the AirFoilLabs C172SP is a really big part of that overall experience, this possibly the very best Cessna 172SP for X-Plane, maybe even in Simulation. So what more could you ask for.... Highly Recommended! ________________________________ The C172SP NG DIGITAL v1.4.0 by AirfoilLabs is NOW available here at the X-Plane.OrgStore 172SP NG DIGITAL Price is US$49.95 This aircraft is X-Plane12 supported, but to note it is in Beta form. Requirements X-Plane 12 or X-Plane 11 - both versions included Windows, Mac Intel, Mac Silicon, or Linux 4 GB VRAM Minimum - 8 GB+ VRAM Recommended Current version: 1.4.0 Beta (October 11th 2022) Download for the AirfolLabs 172SP NG DIGITAL is done via an installer "AFL+Product+Manager+Windows+installer" To use the XJet System you have to download the "Product Manager" program and installed on your computer: Product Manager / Xjet 2..0.0) The installer can be downloaded in all Windows (.exe), Mac OS (.app) and Linux (.Jar) forms for your type of operating System. And the final install in X-Plane folder is 2.95gb. Authorisation is now done via the Product Manager. Updates are also done via the same Product Manager. Version 1.4.0-Beta Changelog: Version 1.4.0-Beta (October 10th 2022) Changelog.txt Designed by AirfoilLabs Support forum for the C172 NG Digital _____________________ Aircraft Review by Stephen Dutton 13th October 2022 Copyright©2022: X-Plane Reviews Review System Specifications:  Computer System: Windows - S1700 Core i7 12700K 12 Core 3.60 GHz CPU / 64bit -32 Gb single 1067 Mhz DDR4 2133 - ASUS GeForce GTX 1080 8Gb - Samsung Evo M2 2TB SSD - Sound : Yamaha Speakers YST-M200SP Software: - Windows 11 Pro - X-Plane 12.00B7 (This is a beta review). 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 - YBBN - Brisbane International by Orbx - YBCG - Gold Coast International by Axonos (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

I've never yet tested it, but the PM 2.0 should work for both, as it is independent of X-Plane, working with the X-Jet framework.

Yes!