Stephen

NEWS! - Toliss previews coming A330-900
 

 
Back in April 2024, Toliss anounced their next project, and the winner was an A330. So here is a new preview and more details on that coming release. First it is the Airbus A330-900 neo (new engine option) variant. So that variant won't clash with the default X-Plane Laminar A330.
 
The Airbus A330neo is a wide-body airliner developed by Airbus from the original Airbus A330 (now A330ceo – "Current Engine Option"). A new version with modern engines comparable with those developed for the Boeing 787 was called for by current operators of the A330ceo. It was launched on 14 July 2014 at the Farnborough Airshow, promising 14% better fuel economy per seat. It is exclusively powered by the Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 which has double the bypass ratio of its predecessor.
 
The A330-900 covers 7,200 nmi (13,330 km; 8,290 mi) with 287 passengers. The -900 made its maiden flight on 19 October 2017 and received its EASA type certificate on 26 September 2018; it was first delivered to TAP Air Portugal on 26 November 2018 and entered service on 15 December.
 
The Toliss A339 aircraft will come equipped with a head-up display, new DRAIMS radio panels, and more. Most of the work on the aircraft has already been completed, and the team is now focusing on the final texturing. There is no announcement of a release date or price, but Toliss usually releases aircraft in the November timeframe, so late Oct to mid-Nov would be a good reference. The ToLiss Airbus A340-600 is priced at US$89.99, so that pricepoint would be a good guide for the coming A330-900.
 
With the preview ToLiss released a few images of the coming A339.
 

 
ToLiss Features include...
Accurate Systems ToLiss Fly-by-wire and autopilot module, with support for Alternate and Direct Law Unique feature: Control Surface hinge moment modelling allows the surfaces to float to the appropriate position after loss of all actuators on a surface or to not reach full deflection if running on a single actuator. fault injection interface allowing to inject custom selected failures, or randomly selected failure based on fault probabilities with over 210 failure modes available. Custom TCAS with resolution advisory function. Terrain on ND and Weather radar available (WX radar works with default X-plane weather engine) Brake temperature model based on the detailed physics of heat transfer between the individual brake components Hydraulics model with proper hydraulic flow computation as function of surface motion, flap/slat motion, gear extension etc. You will see this by the pressure dropping when flying on RAT Custom engine model for accurate thrust and fuel flow modelling including oil pressure and temperature model as well as many engine failure modes. Thrust and fuel flow modelled for each engine type. Special engine logics, such as dual cooling on the PW1127G engine, are also modelled. Detailed model of each ADIRU including alignment, small pressure sensor differences between the units, switching of sources for PFDs and Aps Quantitative bleed system modelling affecting engine fuel flow Electrical system simulation with correct bus reconfiguration and load distribution, simulated electrical transients as well as emergency generation from the blue hydraulic system. Fire detection simulation for engines and APU Custom radio navigation computations including ability to perform backup RADNAV tuning through the RMPs Custom air conditioning model supporting high altitude operations at airports like Cusco in Peru or La Paz in Bolivia without spurious warnings Flight warning system with ECAM actions supporting numerous system failure scenarios, e.g. engine failures, generator failures, hydraulic failures. Custom indicating system including DMC and SDAC simulation. Choice between Multifunctional runway lights or the classic landing light configuration Useability features
Situation loading and saving. It is possible to save the flight at any point in time and resume it another day. This can also be used, e.g., to save the position just before approach and practice just the approach many times. This feature reinstates the complete aircraft state (except communications with ATC, such as AOC and CPDLC messages or ground service states.) Autosaving allows recovering where you left off, should the X-Plane session end unexpectedly. Jumping waypoint-to-waypoint through the cruise phase: Shorten your flight to focus on the more interesting parts as you like. Integrated takeoff performance calculator supporting the use of flex temperature. 4 different start-up configurations from Cold and Dark to engines running and ready to go In-screen popup displays or use of x-plane windows for popups Interactive audio control panel to change ground services, fuel, loading, passengers etc. without breaking immersion Electronic flight bag on both sides with Avitab integration, weight and balance computation, take-off and landing performance calculator as well as a user customizable interactive checklist. Print function for AOC messages, CPDLC messages and selected FMGS functions ___________________________
 
News! by Stephen Dutton
30th August 2024
Copyright©2024: X-Plane Reviews
 
(Disclaimer. All images and text in this review are the work and property of X-PlaneReviews, no sharing or copy of the content is allowed without consent from the author as per copyright conditions) All Rights Reserved
 

 

NEWS! - Reality Expansion Pack for JustFlight PA28 Arrow III (XP12)
 

 
Simcoders have released a REP - Reality Expansion Pack for the JustFlight PA28 Arrow III. This is for only the X-Plane 12 version and non-turbo variant. PA-28R ARROW III XP12 you will need this aircraft to use his addon pack.
 
The idea of these "Reality Expansion Pack" REP packs are to bring a bit more of the everyday running of a GA light aircraft to life, and to also add in more functionality and extra features not found in the original package. Basically if you have used one REP pack then they are all the same with just the aircraft they are attached to in being different.
 
Features include:
Ultra Realistic Flight & Ground Dynamics**
- Realistic stall speeds & behavior
- Realistic climb speeds
- Realistic cruise speeds
- Realistic taxi behavior
**Complex Damages System**
- Triggered by the pilot actions
- Based on real world data
- Target every system in the aircraft
- Meant to teach you how to correctly manage an airplane
**Economic System**
- Can be enabled/disabled on the fly
- Earn virtual money when you fly
- Use virtual money to buy fuel and do maintenance/repairs
- Realistic fuel prices around the World
- Fully compatible with FSEconomy.
- More info
at <https://www.simcoders.com/reality-expansion-pack/economy>
**Interactive Walkaround**
- Cockpit checks
- Lights checks
- Aileron, rudder, elevator and flaps check
- Tire check and choks removal
- Tie-down removal
- Pitot tube check
- Engine cowl check
**Interactive towing**
- Push, pull and steer using the joystick
- Towbar simulation
**Realistic Lycoming IO-360-C1C Engine Logic**
- 100% Custom engine model
- Realistic propeller animations as never seen before on X-Plane
- Correct fuel consumption
- Oil System:
- Realistic oil viscosity
- Interchangeable oil type
- Oil pump failures
- Realistic oil filter
- Interchangeable spark plugs: default or fine-wire
- Spark plugs fouling
- Realistic Lean of Peak and Rich of Peak operations
- Injection Fuel System
- Realistic fuel pump behavior
- Realistic fuel filter
- Starter
- Realistic startup procedure
- Automatic startup procedure to help newbies
- Realistic engine temperatures
- Fuel Flooding simulation
- The engine parts are damaged if not managed correctly
**Realistic Landing Gear**
- The engine may be warmed up upon start with the provided electrical heater
- Once activated, the electrical heater runs even when you close the simulator
- A winterization kit let the airplane to operate at very cold temperatures
**Developed with love**
- Coded by real pilots
**Electrical & Avionics System**
- Realistic Battery
- The avionics are damaged if on when the engine starts/shuts down
**Native Virtual Reality Support**
- Complete support of new X-Plane SDK 3.0
- Menu visible in VR
- Windows visible in VR
**Learn with the in-flight tips**
- A non invasive tip with a suggestion about the conduct of the flight
is shown when you are not flying the airplane properly
- A non invasive tip with a suggestion on how to recover the problem
is shown when you damage the airplane
**Custom simulation of Hypoxia**
- Tunnel vision
- Hard breathing
**Stunning sounds**
- Fuselage wind sound
- Landing gear wind
- Independent touch down sounds
**Fuel Management Tool**
- Compatible with Justflight's weight and balance tool
**Popup Kneeboard**
- Complete normal operations checklist
- Complete emergency operations checklist
- Complete reference tables (speed, fuel consumption etc.)
- May be shown/hidden with mouse gestures
**Simulation state saving**
- Every single switch and lever position is restored when you reload
the aircraft
- The battery may discharge if you leave it on and then close X-Plane
- When X-Plane is launched, the engine and oil temperature are
restored basing on the time passed
**Maintenance Hangar**
- Engine maintenance tab
- Electrical systems maintenance tab
- Avionics tab
- Gauges tab
- Landing gear, brakes & tires tab
**Very easy on FPS**
- Written in C++ with no compromises
------------------------------------------------------------------------
### Extended features list
#### Developed by real pilots
The SimCoders.com team is made by real pilots. We code all our own
flight experience into REP and try to provide you the most amazing
experience in X-Plane.
#### Realistic and complex engine logic
The engine is meticulously reproduced by enhancing the new PT-6 turbine
model introduced by Laminar in X-Plane 11.
We started from the base model and override those parts of the engine
that needed some pimps to reach perfection.
#### Ultra Realistic Flight & Ground Dynamics
A custom flight dynamics engine is replacing part of the internal
X-Plane engine in order to enhance the realism of the simulation. You
will experience realistic speeds and fuel consumptions at every power
setting.
The correct drag during the landing gear operation is realistically
simulated.
The aircraft uses the correct distances to takeoff and landing and
reaches the correct vertical speed during climb.
The ground dynamics are enhanced by a realistic cross wind behavior.
#### Damages System
If you are a reckless flier you will experience many failures based on
the real Pilot's Operating Handbook.
#### Interactive pre-flight checklist and walkaround
Do your ground pre-flight checks using the interactive walkround module.
Check the wheel status, the elevators, the aileron and the rudder. Remove the
choks and the tie-downs.
#### Popup kneeboard
Follow the real Normal Operations Checklists to fly the airplane. Use
the Emergency Checklist when you experience a failure. Plan your flight
basing on the real performance tables.
The popup kneeboard is easy to use and contains all the informations you
need to conduct your flight.
#### Living Airplane
The airplane saves its state and restore it when you restart the
simulator.
An example? After loading your airplane into X-Plane, it will have a
warm engine depending on how much time has passed from the last session.
#### HeadShake integration
If you install HeadShake v1.5 or higher in your system, it will
communicate with REP to extend the simulation realism.
#### Maintenance Tool
You can perform the maintenance of your aircraft using the included
maintenance tool (also called Hangar View). Change the oil, check the
cylinders status, recharge the battery and more.
#### Realistic sounds set
Feel the wind flowing around the fuselage, the landing wheels screech
during an hard landing, the brakes squeaking and many more. The included
sounds are recorded on-board a real aircraft.
#### Custom settings window
A settings window allows you to enable or disable some of the software's
features.

 
Developed by Simcoders
Support forum for the REP JF PA28 Arrow lll

The PA-28R ARROW III XP12 is required for this addon to work. No aircraft included   Images are courtesy of Simcoders ________________________________________
 

 
The Reality Expansion Pack for JustFlight PA28 Arrow lll by Simcoders is now available from the X-Plane.OrgStore!... Here:
 
Reality Expansion Pack XP12 JustFlight PA28 Arrow lll Price is US$19.99
 
Requirements
X-Plane 12
Important: The JustFlight Piper Arrow III XP12 is required for this add-on. It will not work on other aircraft
Current version: 4.8.7 (August 27th 2024)
________________   News by Stephen Dutton
30th August 2024
Copyright©2024: X-Plane Reviews
 
Disclaimer. All images and text in this review are the work and property of X-PlaneReviews, no sharing or copy of the content is allowed without consent from the author as per copyright conditions) All Right Reserved.  

NEWS! - Toliss previews coming A330-900
 

 
Back in April 2024, Toliss anounced their next project, and the winner was an A330. So here is a new preview and more details on that coming release. First it is the Airbus A330-900 neo (new engine option) variant. So that variant won't clash with the default X-Plane Laminar A330.
 
The Airbus A330neo is a wide-body airliner developed by Airbus from the original Airbus A330 (now A330ceo – "Current Engine Option"). A new version with modern engines comparable with those developed for the Boeing 787 was called for by current operators of the A330ceo. It was launched on 14 July 2014 at the Farnborough Airshow, promising 14% better fuel economy per seat. It is exclusively powered by the Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 which has double the bypass ratio of its predecessor.
 
The A330-900 covers 7,200 nmi (13,330 km; 8,290 mi) with 287 passengers. The -900 made its maiden flight on 19 October 2017 and received its EASA type certificate on 26 September 2018; it was first delivered to TAP Air Portugal on 26 November 2018 and entered service on 15 December.
 
The Toliss A339 aircraft will come equipped with a head-up display, new DRAIMS radio panels, and more. Most of the work on the aircraft has already been completed, and the team is now focusing on the final texturing. There is no announcement of a release date or price, but Toliss usually releases aircraft in the November timeframe, so late Oct to mid-Nov would be a good reference. The ToLiss Airbus A340-600 is priced at US$89.99, so that pricepoint would be a good guide for the coming A330-900.
 
With the preview ToLiss released a few images of the coming A339.
 

 
ToLiss Features include...
Accurate Systems ToLiss Fly-by-wire and autopilot module, with support for Alternate and Direct Law Unique feature: Control Surface hinge moment modelling allows the surfaces to float to the appropriate position after loss of all actuators on a surface or to not reach full deflection if running on a single actuator. fault injection interface allowing to inject custom selected failures, or randomly selected failure based on fault probabilities with over 210 failure modes available. Custom TCAS with resolution advisory function. Terrain on ND and Weather radar available (WX radar works with default X-plane weather engine) Brake temperature model based on the detailed physics of heat transfer between the individual brake components Hydraulics model with proper hydraulic flow computation as function of surface motion, flap/slat motion, gear extension etc. You will see this by the pressure dropping when flying on RAT Custom engine model for accurate thrust and fuel flow modelling including oil pressure and temperature model as well as many engine failure modes. Thrust and fuel flow modelled for each engine type. Special engine logics, such as dual cooling on the PW1127G engine, are also modelled. Detailed model of each ADIRU including alignment, small pressure sensor differences between the units, switching of sources for PFDs and Aps Quantitative bleed system modelling affecting engine fuel flow Electrical system simulation with correct bus reconfiguration and load distribution, simulated electrical transients as well as emergency generation from the blue hydraulic system. Fire detection simulation for engines and APU Custom radio navigation computations including ability to perform backup RADNAV tuning through the RMPs Custom air conditioning model supporting high altitude operations at airports like Cusco in Peru or La Paz in Bolivia without spurious warnings Flight warning system with ECAM actions supporting numerous system failure scenarios, e.g. engine failures, generator failures, hydraulic failures. Custom indicating system including DMC and SDAC simulation. Choice between Multifunctional runway lights or the classic landing light configuration Useability features
Situation loading and saving. It is possible to save the flight at any point in time and resume it another day. This can also be used, e.g., to save the position just before approach and practice just the approach many times. This feature reinstates the complete aircraft state (except communications with ATC, such as AOC and CPDLC messages or ground service states.) Autosaving allows recovering where you left off, should the X-Plane session end unexpectedly. Jumping waypoint-to-waypoint through the cruise phase: Shorten your flight to focus on the more interesting parts as you like. Integrated takeoff performance calculator supporting the use of flex temperature. 4 different start-up configurations from Cold and Dark to engines running and ready to go In-screen popup displays or use of x-plane windows for popups Interactive audio control panel to change ground services, fuel, loading, passengers etc. without breaking immersion Electronic flight bag on both sides with Avitab integration, weight and balance computation, take-off and landing performance calculator as well as a user customizable interactive checklist. Print function for AOC messages, CPDLC messages and selected FMGS functions ___________________________
 
News! by Stephen Dutton
30th August 2024
Copyright©2024: X-Plane Reviews
 
(Disclaimer. All images and text in this review are the work and property of X-PlaneReviews, no sharing or copy of the content is allowed without consent from the author as per copyright conditions) All Rights Reserved
 

 

NEWS! - Concorde FXP starts v3.50 beta tests by Colimata
 

 
Colimata has issued an announcement that they have started the beta testing for the next version v3.50 for the excellent Concorde FXP. Colimata notes...
 
"The version 3.50 update has been in the works for quite a few months, now it is ready to enter the BETA test phase.
This phase will take 3-4 weeks. The finished update will be distributed at no additional cost for v3.12 owners."
 
Focus of v3.50 is on the Autoland, which now works as shown below, plus the addition of the coming xCIVA v2 from Philipp Ringler, which has yet not been released. Other focus features include; the Flightmodel, and internal, cockpit and external revisions. There will be a separate manual available for the v3.50 release.
 

 
There is a call for beta testers...

If you are an owner of Concorde FXP v3.12, you can participate in the BETA test phase.
There is room for a LIMITED number of people.
The updates are distributed via the handy and free SkunkCraft Updater v3 standalone client, available here:
https://forums.x-plane.org/index.php?/forums/topic/292710-skunkcrafts-updater-standalone-client/
By default Concorde FXP will not show up in the updater a config file is needed, that I will send.
Please complete the following questions and send it to [email protected]
+ Full name:
+ Order number:
+ Operating System:
+ Graphics Card:
+ VR headset if present:
+ Are you committed to not distribute the software and to keep communication internal:
+ Are you a user of CIVA v1 (by Philipp Ringler):
 
 
 The new update v3.50 release was noted in about 3-4 weeks, but before the Christmas season 2024 would be very nice.
___________________________
 
News! update by Stephen Dutton
30th August 2024
Copyright©2024: X-Plane Reviews
 
Disclaimer. All images and text in this review are the work and property of X-PlaneReviews, no sharing or copy of the content is allowed without consent from the author as per copyright conditions) All Right Reserved  

NEWS! - Toliss previews coming A330-900
 

 
Back in April 2024, Toliss anounced their next project, and the winner was an A330. So here is a new preview and more details on that coming release. First it is the Airbus A330-900 neo (new engine option) variant. So that variant won't clash with the default X-Plane Laminar A330.
 
The Airbus A330neo is a wide-body airliner developed by Airbus from the original Airbus A330 (now A330ceo – "Current Engine Option"). A new version with modern engines comparable with those developed for the Boeing 787 was called for by current operators of the A330ceo. It was launched on 14 July 2014 at the Farnborough Airshow, promising 14% better fuel economy per seat. It is exclusively powered by the Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 which has double the bypass ratio of its predecessor.
 
The A330-900 covers 7,200 nmi (13,330 km; 8,290 mi) with 287 passengers. The -900 made its maiden flight on 19 October 2017 and received its EASA type certificate on 26 September 2018; it was first delivered to TAP Air Portugal on 26 November 2018 and entered service on 15 December.
 
The Toliss A339 aircraft will come equipped with a head-up display, new DRAIMS radio panels, and more. Most of the work on the aircraft has already been completed, and the team is now focusing on the final texturing. There is no announcement of a release date or price, but Toliss usually releases aircraft in the November timeframe, so late Oct to mid-Nov would be a good reference. The ToLiss Airbus A340-600 is priced at US$89.99, so that pricepoint would be a good guide for the coming A330-900.
 
With the preview ToLiss released a few images of the coming A339.
 

 
ToLiss Features include...
Accurate Systems ToLiss Fly-by-wire and autopilot module, with support for Alternate and Direct Law Unique feature: Control Surface hinge moment modelling allows the surfaces to float to the appropriate position after loss of all actuators on a surface or to not reach full deflection if running on a single actuator. fault injection interface allowing to inject custom selected failures, or randomly selected failure based on fault probabilities with over 210 failure modes available. Custom TCAS with resolution advisory function. Terrain on ND and Weather radar available (WX radar works with default X-plane weather engine) Brake temperature model based on the detailed physics of heat transfer between the individual brake components Hydraulics model with proper hydraulic flow computation as function of surface motion, flap/slat motion, gear extension etc. You will see this by the pressure dropping when flying on RAT Custom engine model for accurate thrust and fuel flow modelling including oil pressure and temperature model as well as many engine failure modes. Thrust and fuel flow modelled for each engine type. Special engine logics, such as dual cooling on the PW1127G engine, are also modelled. Detailed model of each ADIRU including alignment, small pressure sensor differences between the units, switching of sources for PFDs and Aps Quantitative bleed system modelling affecting engine fuel flow Electrical system simulation with correct bus reconfiguration and load distribution, simulated electrical transients as well as emergency generation from the blue hydraulic system. Fire detection simulation for engines and APU Custom radio navigation computations including ability to perform backup RADNAV tuning through the RMPs Custom air conditioning model supporting high altitude operations at airports like Cusco in Peru or La Paz in Bolivia without spurious warnings Flight warning system with ECAM actions supporting numerous system failure scenarios, e.g. engine failures, generator failures, hydraulic failures. Custom indicating system including DMC and SDAC simulation. Choice between Multifunctional runway lights or the classic landing light configuration Useability features
Situation loading and saving. It is possible to save the flight at any point in time and resume it another day. This can also be used, e.g., to save the position just before approach and practice just the approach many times. This feature reinstates the complete aircraft state (except communications with ATC, such as AOC and CPDLC messages or ground service states.) Autosaving allows recovering where you left off, should the X-Plane session end unexpectedly. Jumping waypoint-to-waypoint through the cruise phase: Shorten your flight to focus on the more interesting parts as you like. Integrated takeoff performance calculator supporting the use of flex temperature. 4 different start-up configurations from Cold and Dark to engines running and ready to go In-screen popup displays or use of x-plane windows for popups Interactive audio control panel to change ground services, fuel, loading, passengers etc. without breaking immersion Electronic flight bag on both sides with Avitab integration, weight and balance computation, take-off and landing performance calculator as well as a user customizable interactive checklist. Print function for AOC messages, CPDLC messages and selected FMGS functions ___________________________
 
News! by Stephen Dutton
30th August 2024
Copyright©2024: X-Plane Reviews
 
(Disclaimer. All images and text in this review are the work and property of X-PlaneReviews, no sharing or copy of the content is allowed without consent from the author as per copyright conditions) All Rights Reserved
 

 

NEWS! - Aircraft Updated : B787 Aviator's Edition updated to v1.11.0 by Magknight
 

 
It has been a year since there has been any updates to the MagKnight B787 Aviators Edition, in fact not much ongoing development at all. First with the announcement with this release of the aircraft v1.11.0 : it now has native X-Plane 12 compatibility!
 
There has been a lot going on behind the scenes as noted by Magknight...
 
"With X-Plane 12 coming, we started working to update the addon to function within the new simulator. This coincided with when life came to meet us resulting in very little work being completed by the time X-Plane 12 was released. This was the start of the dormancy our users noticed. Myself and Matt kept the lights on in the hope of one day forming a new team and making the Magknight great again but with very little idea on who to call."
 
Developments now include joining forces with another development team, again quoted...
 
"Recently we were approached by another team in regards to partnering up to pick up where we left off and create our high-fidelity 787, Of course, we dove at the opportunity. Who this team is will follow in another announcement made by them. While working on this new 787, Matt, in need of a flight model test bed, threw the new.ACF file for the ‘C’ spec rebuild into the old X-Plane 11 787 and to the surprise of everyone, it worked. It fixed our largest issues in bringing the current X-Plane 11 spec 787 to X-Plane 12. With more time and work, This build of the 787 became quite stable completing several UK to Australia test sessions with no issues. As such, This build has taken the place of the long-dead ‘B’ spec or jokingly named Broken spec 787 of our first X-Plane 12 attempt. So where does this take us?"
 
Development notes and other versions are covered here as well.
 
"We will be releasing the ‘B’ spec now called the Aviators XP12 to you, This brings you the 787-9 with the -8 to follow very soon. If Matt and I can get the -10 that was half-finished to a complete stage, that will come too. The functionality is set at the peak of the X-Plane 11 builds with features formerly deactivated making their return such as Hoppie CPDLC and our cabin PA system."
 
Finally the announcement concludes with...
 
"“hopefully little to no extra cost to our existing users”.
 
Notable is that FlightFactor Aero are also developing the Boeing 787 Series of aircraft, if these developers are the new partners then that will make interesting reading, but the FF 787 development has also been ongoing for a while, as the feature set is also going to be as big as the FF Boeing 777, which is absolutely huge...  so the development agendas don't match.
 
Upgrade notes include;
- Repaired EFB W/B
- Reactivated Hoppie CPDLC
- Reactivated Cabin PA system 
- Introduced X-Plane 12 native compatibility
- Minor improvements to performance 
- New ‘C’ spec Flight Model 
- New control logic
- Controls override plugin to fix roll issues. 
- New Wing model
- Interim FBW augmentation mode
 
This v1.11.0 build unfortunately is not perfect, It has a few things to note, These being:
 
- Inaccurate Flaps reading on EICAS
- Unified GE/RR Thrust and performance 
- Functionality within MacOS and Linux can not be verified
- FMOD error on launch, Clicking understood moves past it
 
Work is still underway to rectify these issues.
 
A note to download the v1.11.0 update from the X-Plane.OrgStore, and to NOT run Skunkcrafts Updater. You need a clean version update here. And that there is now two separate versions of the Magknight B787, one for X-Plane 12 and one for X-Plane 11.
 
X-PlaneReviews are going to do a review on the Boeing 787 v1.11.0 soon, so watch this site for a detailed analysis of this upgrade.
_________________

 
Yes! the Boeing 787-900 Aviator Edition Dreamliner XP12 v1.11.0 by Magknight is now available from the X-Plane.Org Store here :
 
B787-9 Aviator Edition
Price is US$44.95 (You Save:$11.00(20%))
 
Current purchasers can go to their X-Plane.OrgStore account and download the new X-Plane 12 version 1.11.0
 
Requirements
(2 separate downloads included)
Windows, Mac or Linux 8 GB+ VRAM recommended Download Size:  1.1 GB Current version : XP12: 1.11 (August 27th 2024)   XP:11: 1.8 ________________
  News by Stephen Dutton
28th August 2024
Copyright©2024: X-Plane Reviews
 
Disclaimer. All images and text in this review are the work and property of X-PlaneReviews, no sharing or copy of the content is allowed without consent from the author as per copyright conditions) All Right Reserved.  

NEWS! - Aircraft Updated : B787 Aviator's Edition updated to v1.11.0 by Magknight
 

 
It has been a year since there has been any updates to the MagKnight B787 Aviators Edition, in fact not much ongoing development at all. First with the announcement with this release of the aircraft v1.11.0 : it now has native X-Plane 12 compatibility!
 
There has been a lot going on behind the scenes as noted by Magknight...
 
"With X-Plane 12 coming, we started working to update the addon to function within the new simulator. This coincided with when life came to meet us resulting in very little work being completed by the time X-Plane 12 was released. This was the start of the dormancy our users noticed. Myself and Matt kept the lights on in the hope of one day forming a new team and making the Magknight great again but with very little idea on who to call."
 
Developments now include joining forces with another development team, again quoted...
 
"Recently we were approached by another team in regards to partnering up to pick up where we left off and create our high-fidelity 787, Of course, we dove at the opportunity. Who this team is will follow in another announcement made by them. While working on this new 787, Matt, in need of a flight model test bed, threw the new.ACF file for the ‘C’ spec rebuild into the old X-Plane 11 787 and to the surprise of everyone, it worked. It fixed our largest issues in bringing the current X-Plane 11 spec 787 to X-Plane 12. With more time and work, This build of the 787 became quite stable completing several UK to Australia test sessions with no issues. As such, This build has taken the place of the long-dead ‘B’ spec or jokingly named Broken spec 787 of our first X-Plane 12 attempt. So where does this take us?"
 
Development notes and other versions are covered here as well.
 
"We will be releasing the ‘B’ spec now called the Aviators XP12 to you, This brings you the 787-9 with the -8 to follow very soon. If Matt and I can get the -10 that was half-finished to a complete stage, that will come too. The functionality is set at the peak of the X-Plane 11 builds with features formerly deactivated making their return such as Hoppie CPDLC and our cabin PA system."
 
Finally the announcement concludes with...
 
"“hopefully little to no extra cost to our existing users”.
 
Notable is that FlightFactor Aero are also developing the Boeing 787 Series of aircraft, if these developers are the new partners then that will make interesting reading, but the FF 787 development has also been ongoing for a while, as the feature set is also going to be as big as the FF Boeing 777, which is absolutely huge...  so the development agendas don't match.
 
Upgrade notes include;
- Repaired EFB W/B
- Reactivated Hoppie CPDLC
- Reactivated Cabin PA system 
- Introduced X-Plane 12 native compatibility
- Minor improvements to performance 
- New ‘C’ spec Flight Model 
- New control logic
- Controls override plugin to fix roll issues. 
- New Wing model
- Interim FBW augmentation mode
 
This v1.11.0 build unfortunately is not perfect, It has a few things to note, These being:
 
- Inaccurate Flaps reading on EICAS
- Unified GE/RR Thrust and performance 
- Functionality within MacOS and Linux can not be verified
- FMOD error on launch, Clicking understood moves past it
 
Work is still underway to rectify these issues.
 
A note to download the v1.11.0 update from the X-Plane.OrgStore, and to NOT run Skunkcrafts Updater. You need a clean version update here. And that there is now two separate versions of the Magknight B787, one for X-Plane 12 and one for X-Plane 11.
 
X-PlaneReviews are going to do a review on the Boeing 787 v1.11.0 soon, so watch this site for a detailed analysis of this upgrade.
_________________

 
Yes! the Boeing 787-900 Aviator Edition Dreamliner XP12 v1.11.0 by Magknight is now available from the X-Plane.Org Store here :
 
B787-9 Aviator Edition
Price is US$44.95 (You Save:$11.00(20%))
 
Current purchasers can go to their X-Plane.OrgStore account and download the new X-Plane 12 version 1.11.0
 
Requirements
(2 separate downloads included)
Windows, Mac or Linux 8 GB+ VRAM recommended Download Size:  1.1 GB Current version : XP12: 1.11 (August 27th 2024)   XP:11: 1.8 ________________
  News by Stephen Dutton
28th August 2024
Copyright©2024: X-Plane Reviews
 
Disclaimer. All images and text in this review are the work and property of X-PlaneReviews, no sharing or copy of the content is allowed without consent from the author as per copyright conditions) All Right Reserved.  

Update Review : E-Jet Family v1.1.0 by X-Crafts
When it was released in May 2023. X-Crafts E-Jet Family became the first really genuine X-Plane 12 aircraft, a release that showed the potential and even to show off the features of the next installment version of the X-Plane Simulator. It was so overwhelmingly good it easily won X-PlaneReviews aircraft of the year 2023.
 
It would of course be very easy for X-Crafts to rest on their laurels, but in fact they did the opposite in releasing four updates, One in v1.0.1 very quickly, to fix the throttle issues, then three really large and significant updates in June (v1.0.2), October (v1.0.3), then December (v1.0.4). These updates were not just simple affairs, but comprehensive changes to the aircraft in Systems, Autopilot, AutoThrottle, FMS, Sounds and general modeling fixes and refinements. So by the end of the year the E-Jet Family was even more refined and sensational than it was at it's release date.
 
But X-Crafts are not finished yet...  here is the next version update in v1.1.0, (this review was created under the "beta" phase). So it is time to climb into the E-Jet cockpit and to see what is new. Coming back to the aircraft is not a simple "get in and fly". Even experienced SimPilot's have to readjust to the aircraft's systems and even the quirks of flying the machine, Marko Mamula the developer of the E-Jet Series calls it "Refresher" and has created a 5-Minute Refresher course (or cheat sheet) to get you back into the groove, for me I call it a "Reorientation" or a quick orientation flight to get back into the groove, and yes I made loads of mistakes until I don't.
 
But this E-Jet Series is a serious aircraft, notable as a "Study" deep Simulation, so you will need to restudy or relearn the details before doing a serious flight, in other words carrying paying passengers. I do recommend to read Marko's cheat sheet, there is a lot of vital tips in there to make it 100% realistic, based of course on flying a real E-Jet aircraft.
 
First a quick reacquaintance with the E-Jet Family, and this is the E-190. In the full family there are the four variants E-170, E-175, E-190 and the long one E-195. A full view of all the variants and the details of the X-Crafts E-Jet Family is in our X-PlaneReviews release review; Aircraft Review : E-Jets Family by X-Crafts. The extra variant still coming in the future is the E 190 Lineage Business Jet.
 

 
Graphic real, the images show an almost real world photo feel to the aircraft, that is how really good this design is.
 
First thing I noticed were the pilots! I don't remember them in the release review, but they have now been added to this update. They are quite sensational, the most realistic pilots I can remember, animated by head and eyes, shake in turbulence, move with G forces on landing or turn their heads based on the pitch, roll and yaw. They both really do bring in a realism to the aircraft I have never seen before.
 

 
Back in the cockpit, the wow factor still seriously "WOWS"...  it is glorious in here.
 

 
Honestly, the earlier E-Jets I wasn't crazy about, I flew them now and again, but this is something else...  deep almost perfect simulation.
 
But to business...  First some Hardware fixes have been done; first fix was the Inability to toggle reverse thrust on TCA Throttles, then the Speed command not going lower than 140kts, and finally the TO CONFIG check will now work fine if flaps have been assigned to an axis in the hardware settings.
 
I found the ROUTE building very easy. The X-Crafts E-Jet uses the standard X-Plane .fms system for the route. For Departure and Arrival PROC (Procedures) the built in system is very good and comprehensive. It looks hard to set up, but it actually isn't, you can do the route and editing in about five minutes, but like I said the results are very comprehensive. Mamula recommends editing to clear any remaining -DISCONTINUITIES - in the flightplan, and I wholly recommend this as the system will insert vectors.
 

 
You can now also type the exact name of your CO ROUTE file into the scratchpad and then insert it into  CO ROUTE field to insert it directly instead of selecting it from the list.some text
The name must match the .fms file name exactly, without the file extension. For example, if the flight plan file name is KBOS-KJFK.fms, you should enter KBOS-KJFK into the scratchpad.  
Performance INIT is easily set up from the Tablet, with helpers "Weights&Balance", Takeoff Pref and Landing Pref. You have to insert most of the data into the FMS, but the info is all easily available. You can import from SimBrief the critical load data or you can manually insert the Payload and ZFW (Zero Fuel Weight). Then use the data to load the aircraft, it is recommended to "Load Aircraft".
 

 
PERF INIT has three pages, Page 1/3 is Fuel, Page 2/3 covers Cruise Altitude, TO CG (Takeoff Centre of Gravity) Weights and ISA DEV
 

 
Page 3/3 is the "Speed" page, and the "Default Speed Schedules". In v1.1.0 the E-Jet will now follow these speed stability enhancements very intimately, or their limits being far more focused, so it is now crucial to make sure they are correctly set, you can change all three; Climb Speed, Cruise Speed and Descent Speed via the OR options. There are a lot of other limits, like 10000ft Speed Limit like “250 below 10000”, that is defined on the CLIMB Page, so there are a lot of things to be aware of.
 

 
All panels now popout, it is noted that ALL pop out, but I found that you could only open one side PFD and MFD (Multi-Functional Display) and the central EICAS (Engine Indicating and Crew Alerting System) at the same time, or the other side. Added now however is that you have scaling of each panel and movement, a separate popout Window option is also now available, a sweet trick will quickly close any popout/window via the right mouse click.
 

 
Lighting has had some attention. The roof rear DOME lights have been refined and are now far brighter, certainly better in illuminating the cockpit. In power off or cold&dark situations the lighting will now be switched off. The cabin lighting is the same as before, but it feels slightly brighter on the (full) MAX setting.
 

 
Externally all the lighting now has the XP12.1.0 halo/bloom effects, and they are all very effective.
 

 
The biggest new feature in v1.1.0 is the "ILS AutoTune". If you wanted to note the most automated aircraft in the world, you would probably go for the Airbus A320 Series, but actually the Embraer Aircraft are even more automated, in fact you will use only a few button pushes from takeoff to landing. We will look at these and other systems soon. But another is the ILS AutoTune. This system will automatically sets the aircraft up for a ILS landing, at the point of 30 NM from the arrival airport. (it will also activate for VOR stations at approximately 150 NM).
 
When you set your arrival NAV 1 ILS Frequency (here 110.90 ILD)...  it appears in the PFD (NAV1) box in pink (meaning it is selected), when it turns to green it is then active. The AutoTune selection is also shown in the FMS as "FMS AUTO" in the NAV 1 box.
 

 
The autopilot will automatically switch from FMS as the source for the AP to V/L (VOR/Localizer) when the lateral deviation of the approach is less than 1 dot. This means that the pilot no longer has to manually tune in the ILS frequency or to switch from FMS to the LOC source manually, as it is now fully automatic.
 
If you do want to set the Freq manually, you can turn the AutoTune off. This is done by selecting the lower frequency (111.15) in the box, and the ON/OFF selection RK5. You can also insert both NAV 1 and NAV 2 frequencies to AutoTune, and at any time also just use the NAV 2 selector for standard VOR/DME selections (with the AutoTune switched off). AutoTuning only works with the Autopilot active, disconnecting the AP will then also disable the AutoTune.
 

 
If you are like me, it is a bit concerning at first as you are internally programmed to select the ILS (freq) as part of the Approach procedures, in to not do so creates an anxiety...  but once flown with the AutoTune working, you will soon adapt to the idea, and it means you only have to press the APP button on this vital phase of the flight.
____________
 
So let us see these systems in action...  Pushback and we are ready for engine start. The process is fully auto (like most on the E-Jets) with no bleeds to set or AirCon blocks. (the Embraer does still actually bleed to start the engines from the APU, but it is an automatic process). notes include that the Ignition has been fixed to happen at the correct N2 value (61.9º) in the update, so the start procedure is even more finely tuned.
 

 
The T.O. Config (Configuration) is important to be checked, it is set behind the throttles, and that the "Pitch Trim" (1.3UP) is correct on the lower right EICAS. Engine start up sounds and then running was always good, I would like more sounds adjustment than the three current settings, I expected more by now, but they haven't eventuated. However engine buzz has now been added, most notably audible over 85%N1 and in the cabin near the engines. Notable is that Mango Studios have just released an updated X-Crafts E-Jets Family Soundpack, that can extend the range, number and larger adjustment of the E-Jet Family sounds and aural spaces. Cost currently for the soundpack is US$15.99
 

 
In the taxiing phase the E-Jet is very nice place to be, a bit of thrust will move the E-190, then you don't need much more throttle to keep a nice speed of around 12kts-15knts. Rio de Janeiro/Galeão is busy today, with tons of traffic.
 

 
Once on the runway at the hold point, you have to set the TOGA switch on the lower throttles. There is a command selection which helps for your able to use the TOGA with an add on throttle (I use a Saitek X-56) which makes it more realistic. This then sets ready the LNAV and VNAV on the PFD, these are then both auto activated when you select the Autopilot, in then not only in switching you into your programmed flightplan, but also the Vertical and speed flightplan as well.
 

 
It is also VERY important to select the correct "Speed" selection, before it didn't matter, but the FMS Speed feature is now active in v1.1.0. The selector switch is set below the Speed dial, switching between FMS - MAN, for the selection of the "Default Speed Schedules" as noted earlier.
 

 
It is important to be aware of the sources and limits on the FMS speeds...   First there is the Manual waypoint speed entry (as defined by the user) 10000ft Speed Limit (“250 below 10000”. Defined on the CLIMB Page), the Departure Speed Limit or GO Around Speed Limit (Limiting speeds around airports), and the Flaps Speed limit (Set by the max flaps speed limits).
 
It is also important in having the right FMS-MAN selection ready at T.O. in MAN (in Green) is the "Manual" speed setting if you are not using the AUTO takeoff. If you are in wanting the AUTO flight, then the Speed selection needs to be selected in FMS (in Magenta), which will show you your T.O speed. Now you press the A/T button to arm the system, this is noted as "TO" on the PFD
 

 
All now set, we are ready to go... all you now have to do is power up the engines, to full TOGA power.
 

 
The E-Jet is nice to throttle up and then power on down the runway, v1, v2 and then v2 + 10 to rotate...
 

 
Pitch is around 11º, and hold it very tight as the aircraft goes into a "Positive Climb", as it will tend to droop as it leaves the runway. At over 400ft (I used 500ft) then press the AP (Autopilot) button, this then activates all the systems (LNAV, and VNAV) including the FMS altitude and speed markers, here we switch to 210 knts (magenta) to continue the climb.
 


 
If the flaps are still out, if so then the system will adhere to the flap limits automatically. Here (Flap 2) the speed limit is set to 225 knts, retract the flap and the speed changes to the next flap limit. Then the aircraft will set to the Climb Rate, here 250 knts all the way up to the transition altitude (16,000ft). Climb performance and TRS limits fine-tuning now also closely matches the real-world figures, for perfect numbers in the climb phase.
 


 
Once at the transition altitude the E-190 will level off, and will stay at HOLD at this altitude...  The FMS has three flight modes; first FLCH for climb and flight level changes, second ALT for Cruise mode, then finally PTH for the descent and approach phases.
 

 

 
...   once at the transition altitude the E-190 will level off, and will stay at this altitude until you adjust the Altitude (ALT) to the Cruise Level (FL340), then it automatically will start the climb again. The FMS system will automatically adjust for the best climb speed and Vertical fpm (feet per minute), and in adjusting the climb pitch on the go to get the perfect climb performance...
 

 
.... when required (here 31,500 ft) it will automatically switch between Speed (Knots) to .MACH number, also around the .MACH number change the system will also go to (Limited BANK) and the limits will be shown on the top of the Artificial Horizon PFD.
 

 
...   and finally at cruise altitude (TOC), the system will then adjust the speed to the correct Cruise (.M79) speed and show ALT the Cruise mode.
 

 
All this and every phase of the flight to altitude is computed and automatically done for you...   it is a very dynamic aircraft is the E-Jet.
 

 
As noted if the "ILS AutoTune" is activated, then approximately 150 nm from your destination the vertical and horizontal ILS bars appear, and the aircraft will be ready for the approach phase. When you reach One minute from TOD (Top of Descent), there will be an alert Chime to tell you to adjust the Altitude, plus a note in the FMS (RESET ALT SELECT), and the moment you change the altitude the aircraft will follow the descent path (angle) and you will start to descend. You will mostly set the altitude to 3,000 ft, the start altitude of the ILS beams, but you can also set 10,000ft or even 6,000ft depending on ATC instructions, again you always lower the set altitude to resume the descent.
 

 
In the descent mode the system will now show PTH (or PATH)...  it will follow the "Vert Prof" (Vertical Profile) as you descend with all the set Altitude limits (Restrictions) shown on the VP and MAP screens, the route data is very comprehensive, highly realistic to the E-190 aircraft.
 

 
It is crucial to make sure you have the correct vRefs set in the Landing PERF page on the FMS, as the system uses these numbers as a guide for the approach and landing phase, if wrong they will give you a very different pitch angle on the approach, so it is always best to recompute them on the Tablet (Landing Perf) before going into the approach phase of the flight.
 

 
Now into the landing circuit for SBSV / SSA, My speed was still at a 269 kts, a bit too fast for a scary cat like me. Now in reality you need not worry as the system will slow automatically to the correct speeds (I hung on and tested that aspect before). But if you want to artificially lower your approach speeds, then the best way is to use your flaps, or your flap speed limits, so going to say Flap 2 will slow you down to a more relaxing 160 knts
 

 
Gear down on the turn is very dramatic!
 

 
Now at Flap 4 I am now at 140 kts, and only one more action to do once I have completed the last º90 turn into approach, is to just press the APP (Approach) button, this will activate the final phase of the system, check the correct ILS Freq and set up the APP system to capture the ILS. Flap 4 and I'm at 140 knts.... then the system locks into the ILS (LOC/FPA) and I am on the descent path, its all a full AutoLanding system.
 

 
You will see APPR1 or APPR2 on top of the PFD. These selections depend on the BARO minimums type that you are using, say APPR 1 if barometric minimums is used for ILS CAT I Approaches or APPR 2 If radio altimeter minimums is used for ILS CAT II Approaches.
 
Now full flap and 130 kts landing speed...  If not very expert in flying then the set vRefs will do you fine, but although the 5º pitch isn't very high, the E-190 felt very nose up to me? So if you wanted to experiment with slightly different approach vrefs (speeds), it might give you a slightly better approach angle.
 

 
Finals and I'm over the landmass and into the field.
 

 
Again the E-190 will shout-out your heights then automatically go into a "Flare" mode, to a perfect sweet landing...  the rest, reversers, braking is still up to you.
 

 
I think our two new pilots would be impressed with that landing and roll-out.
 

 
So all the various flight profiles and procedures are greatly reduced to automatic status, the Embraer does fly itself for most of the flight profile, yes you still have to arm, adjust flaps and select APP functions, but overall the systems are fully automatic. X-Crafts have also built in a safety set of default numbers for the system, so if you miss a vital vRef, then the system will cover for you, but if you want to go pro and do your own numbers then it will follow that aspect, either way get it totally right, and it is totally brilliant.
____________
 
Summary
Released in May 2023, the X-Crafts E-Jet family is a new standard bearer of extreme quality Simulation of this excellent regional Jet Series. It is an award winning design that shows off the best aspects of the X-Plane 12 Simulator. It is the upper echelon of Simulation.
 
X-Crafts have covered three extensive updates in the year or so since the May 2023 release, but here is the first main significant version update in v1.1.0
 
Most of focus here in v1.10 is on automation, with focus on the VNAV aspects, with a clever "Autotune" system that detects and automates the systems for a ILS landing. So the Auto Speeds and Altitude (VNAV) are now fully functional. The E-Jet is a very automated aircraft (more than any Airbus), so the system will cover you from departure to arrival, with only a few interactions from the pilot flying, these are flap limits, recontinue climb and start descent, with only one operation from approach to roll-out via the APP selection. Manual flying is also still accessible. 
 
There have been a few hardware fixes, better lighting with cockpit and external lighting adjusted to X-Plane v12.1.0, better popout panels, improved the wing flex animations, the cabin curtain is no longer transparent from the service door and the Rubber around the door is not visible also from the outside and that nasty green edge on the cabin windows has also been fixed. The highlight is the very best animated pilots in X-Plane are now visual in the cockpit...  it's a big update, but most is hidden under the hood with the automation aspect.
 
The X-Crafts E-Jet is an astounding Simulation, now even more so with it's unique sophisticated systems, yes it is a Study style aircraft, and yes learning and application of the systems is required, but X-Crafts do give you tons of information and cheat sheets to understand and use the aircraft. It's highly addictive as well, but overall it is just the sheer absolute quality of everything about this aircraft in the ultimate detailing of everything that consistently astounds you, it is the gold class of Simulation, the best of the best.... Highly Recommended.
_____________________
 

 
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 Windows, MAC or Linux -  8 GB+ VRAM Recommended Current version: 1.1.0 (September 27th 2024)   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 June 2023.pdf E-Jets Family by X-Crafts - User Manual.pdf _____________________
 
Aircraft Beta Review by Stephen Dutton
28th September 2024
Copyright©2024: X-Plane Reviews
 
Review System Specifications: 
Windows  - 12th Gen IS1700 Core i7 12700K 12 Core 3.60 GHz CPU - 64bit -32 Gb single 1067 Mhz DDR4 2133 - PNY GeForce RTX 3080 10GB XLR8 - Samsung 970 EVO+ 2TB SSD - Bose Quiet comfort Headphones.
Software:   - Windows 11 Pro - X-Plane Version 12.04r3
Plugins: JustFlight-Traffic (X-Plane.OrgStore) US$52.99 : Global SFD plugin US$30.00
Scenery or Aircraft
- SBGL- Rio de Janeiro International v2 by Globallart (X-Plane.OrgStore) - US$29.95
- SBSV - Salvador/Bahia International Airport by Globallart (X-Plane.OrgStore) - US$19.95
 
(Disclaimer. All images and text in this review are the work and property of X-PlaneReviews, no sharing or copy of the content is allowed without consent from the author as per copyright conditions) All Rights Reserved
 

NEWS! - Scenery Released : RPVA Tacloban City Airport - Philippines by Airwil Sceneries
 

 
This is the sixth Filipino airport scenery from Airwil Sceneries, so now it is getting to be a nice collection in this remote destination. This one is RPVA Tacloban City Airport, also known as Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport, and is the main gateway to Eastern Visayas serving the general areaof Tacloban, Leyte Philippines. Being just about an hour away from Manila, Tacloban is another airport perfect for a short Philippine hop
 
RPVA is a Class 1 Major Domestic Airport is ranked as the seventh busiest airport in the Philippines.
 
his X-Plane scenery is as detailed as it can get with hundreds of custom made objects to carefully portray it's real life Flipino counterpart. From the detailed airport vicinity, to the Robinson's Tacloban Mall, Tacloban City Convention Center, Go Hotels, Hotel Costa Brava, Coca-Cola Tacloban, Banko Sentral ng Pilipinas, Wilcon and the Saint Joseph Parish. They are all carefully modeled to bring you the best Tacloban experience.
 

 
The value $10 to $12 prices to the quality of these excellent Filipino sceneries, make for a great collection of all six... start collecting now!
 
Images are courtesy of Airwil Sceneries
_______________________________

 
RPVA Tacloban City Airport - Philippines XP12 XP11 by Airwil Sceneries is NOW available! from the X-Plane.Org Store
 
RPVA Tacloban City Airport - Philippines
Priced at US$11.99
 
Requirements
X-Plane 12 or X-Plane 11 Windows, Mac or Linux 8GB+ VRAM Recommended Download Size: 3.8 GB Current version : 1.0 (August 25th 2024) ___________________________
 
News by Stephen Dutton
26th August 2024
Copyright©2024: X-Plane Reviews
 
(Disclaimer. All images and text in this review are the work and property of X-PlaneReviews, no sharing or copy of the content is allowed without consent from the author as per copyright conditions) All Rights Reserved
 

NEWS! - New Airport Released : LFNS-Sisteron, France by FSX3D
 

 
Another French airport converted to X-Plane 12 from FSX3D, and this one is a more focused airport in that it is mostly used for gliders. This airfield is located near Sisteron in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region and is primarily used for general aviation, including gliding and light aircraft operations. It’s a popular spot for gliding due to the favorable weather conditions and the terrain in the region.
 
More than 13,000 hours of glider flight were flown there in 2015. And activity is particularly strong here from March to October.
The Sisteron-Vaumeilh aerodrome hosted the world final of the Sailplane Grand Prix (SGP) organized by the International Aeronautical Federation from May 8 to 16, 2014.
 
Main feature of the scenery (besides the airfield) is the architectural heritage flagship of the Citadel of Sisteron. The Citadel (Mon His) consists of a wide range of military works from various periods. The keep and the rampart path, built on the narrow rocky spine, date from the 13th century, with the staging of bastioned buildings from the 16th.
 
Features:
-Ultra detailed car parks, taxiways and track
-PBR on all objects
-Ambient occlusion (Objects and ground)
-Wet track effects
-Dynamic lighting
-Compatibility Ortho4XP
-Compatibility AutoOrtho
-HD photorealistic ground
-South-Est Z17 (Ortho4XP 1.40)
-Autogen (Houses,Lights,Cars)
-Citadel Sisteron 3D
 

 
These cheap nifty French sceneries are great value, and now there are quite a few from FSX3D to collect. This one is perfect for your Gliding headquarters, and comes with the
 
mages are courtesy of FSX3D
_______________________________
 

 
LFNS-Sisteron, France by FSX3D is now available from the X-Plane.Org Store here:

LFNS-Sisteron, France
Price is US$12.99
 
Requirements
X-Plane 12 Windows, Mac or Linux 8 GB VRAM Minimum Download Size: 931 MB Current version : 1.0  (Aug 23rd 2024) ___________________________
 
News! by Stephen Dutton
26th August 2024
Copyright©2024: X-Plane Reviews
 
(Disclaimer. All images and text in this review are the work and property of X-PlaneReviews, no sharing or copy of the content is allowed without consent from the author as per copyright conditions) All Rights Reserved
 

NEWS! - Addon Released : Mango Studios 767 PW4000
 

 
I was very impressed of the engine conversion for the Rotate MD80 Series IAE V2500 Engine by Mango Studios. Here is another one and this time it is for FlightFactor Boeing 767 Series, but not for the -400 version. This is not a sound pack but the engine modification.
 
This is a Pratt & Whitney PW4000 Engine mod for the Flight Factor B767. The engine was completely modeled from the ground up, including all the real- vents, screws, fins, and flaps that the real engine from the real aircraft would have. Comes with pre-made liveries such as: Delta, American Airlines, Condor, Fedex, United, Austrian and UPS. A paintkit is also available.   Here is a nice video...  
 

 
It's only 7 bucks folks, but the FlightFactor Boeing 767 Series is required for this modification. Comes also with a manual and video tutorial to make installation super easy!   __________________
 

 
Yes!...   PW4000 Engine Add-on for FF 767 by Mango Studios is now Available from the X-Plane.Org Store here :
 
PW4000 Engine Add-on for FF 767 by Mango Studios
Price is US$6.99
 
Requirements
This is a Modification. The FlightFactor Boeing 767 professional is required for this package
Download Size: 452 MB Current version 1.0 (August 25th 2024) ___________________________
 
NEWS! by Stephen Dutton
26th August 2024
Copyright©2024: X-Plane Reviews
 
(Disclaimer. All images and text in this review are the work and property of X-PlaneReviews, no sharing or copy of the content is allowed without consent from the author as per copyright conditions) All Rights Reserved
 

 

NEWS! - Aircraft Announcement : Passenger McDonnell Douglas MD-11 by Rotate coming soon
 

 
It was promised, and now it is coming soon...  The Passenger version of the McDonnell Douglas MD-11 by Rotate. And yes it comes with a full passenger cabin.
 
The aircraft can be purchased as a stand alone aircraft, but current MD-11F (Freighter) owners will be able to buy the "Passenger' version with a discount price yet to be revealed. A combo package will also be available to buy both products in one purchase.
 
 
 
The McDonnell Douglas MD-11, which was once a widely used passenger aircraft, is now primarily used for cargo operations. The last major airline to operate the MD-11 in passenger service was KLM, which retired its fleet in 2014. Since then, no airlines have used the MD-11 for regular passenger service. There was only 200 MD-11s built, almost all left were converted to freighters.
 
The MD-11 was originally marketed with promises of greater range and fuel efficiency compared to its predecessor, the DC-10. However, early models failed to meet these expectations, falling short by as much as 600 nautical miles in range. The introduction of more efficient twin-engine aircraft like the Boeing 777 and Airbus A330 further highlighted the MD-11’s shortcomings. These newer aircraft offered similar or better range and payload capabilities with lower operating costs. The MD-11 however found a second life as a cargo aircraft, where its large cargo capacity and relatively long range became valuable.
 
The MD-11 passenger version by Rotate will be released soon.
___________________________
 
NEWS! by Stephen Dutton
26th August 2024
Copyright©2024: X-Plane Reviews
 
(Disclaimer. All images and text in this review are the work and property of X-PlaneReviews, no sharing or copy of the content is allowed without consent from the author as per copyright conditions) All Rights Reserved
 

 

NEWS! - Aircraft Released : PA44-180 Piper Seminole XP12 by AeroSphere
 

 
There is nothing like a nice twin, a General Aviation Twin-Engined aircraft.
 
The PA44-180 Piper Seminole is a light twin general aviation and trainer aircraft that is very popular among flight schools and GA due to its relatively low cost and ease of use. This twin engine workhorse, designed from the PA-28 Cherokee/Arrow was conceived to fit the niche in the twin engine trainer and business commuter market in the mid 70’s continuing in and out of production into the 21st century. It featured two counter-rotating Lycoming O-360 180hp engines at 2,700 RPM with constant speed, two bladed with an option for three, fully feathering propellers. Coming in at slightly larger than the Arrow's wingspan of 30 feet, the Seminole featured a 38-foot semi-tapered wingspan and a max takeoff and landing weight of 3,800 lbs. This light twin boasted a positive rate of climb with one engine inoperative up to 4,100 feet under standard conditions at max weight and with counter-rotating propellers, eliminated the critical engine during single engine flight. With elegant design lines and a T-tail configuration, the Seminole has proved its worth throughout history and to this day, training many multi-engine pilots while offering the assurance of safely arriving at destination. All things considered, the Seminole may be one of the best light twin airplanes ever produced for the training environment.    
 
AeroSphere Simulation's Piper Seminole was modeled using Piper’s POH, pictures, diagrams, dimensions and real-world flying experience to make the most realistic flight simulation experience possible. The cockpit was modeled after both the G1000 and the steam gauge version - which are the most popular models the aircraft is delivered in - while the avionics suite composes of popular, easy-to-use accessories that are commonly found in the Seminole aircraft.   Two Seminole models are included:  G1000 Variant   Steam Gauge Variant Features: 6 HD (4096 x 4096) liveries with a plain white palette that can be used for custom paint schemes VR friendly with Hotspots and click regions X-Plane 12 native rain effects and exterior 3D lighting Test flown by a Piper Seminole pilot for accurate flight characteristics Includes both the steam gauge cockpit and G1000 “glass” cockpit Garmin G1000, 530 & 430 All gauges are 3D Detailed flight model and interactive 3D virtual cockpit with animated knobs, buttons etc. cabin door, storm window and rear baggage compartment door Toggle button to remove/display yoke Many textures taken from the actual aircraft FMOD Custom Sounds  

 

 

 
Requires X-Plane 12.1 and higher Takes advantage of the new features in X-Plane version 12.1 such as the Johnson bar flap handle and the new G1000 data refs (the custom Piper engine gauge cluster on the G1000 with the gear indicator status lights is controlled by these new data refs such as waiting on the splash screen, reversionary mode etc… However, the engine gauges do not show on the “pop-up” version of the G1000, as these are still default). This is an X-Plane 12 aircraft only.  
Images and video are courtesy of AeroSphere Simulations
 
Design by AeroSphere
Support forum for the Piper Seminole _____________________________________
 

 
Yes! - PA44-180 Piper Seminole XP12 by AeroSphere Solutions is NOW available from the X-Plane.Org Store here :

PA44-180 Piper Seminole XP12
Price is only US$29.95 Retail Price:$35.00 You Save:$5.05(14%)  
Requirements
X-Plane 12  (not for XP11)
Windows, Mac, Linux
8 GB VRAM Recommended
Current version: 1.0 (August 25th 2024) ___________________________
 
NEWS! by Stephen Dutton
26th August 2024
Copyright©2024: X-Plane Reviews
 
(Disclaimer. All images and text in this review are the work and property of X-PlaneReviews, no sharing or copy of the content is allowed without consent from the author as per copyright conditions) All Rights Reserved
 

Aircraft Review : Schweizer S300CBi  Helicopter X-Plane 12 by Dreamfoil Creations
 
Without doubt the biggest pioneer in X-Plane Helicopters is Dreamfoil Creations. The list is too long to mention here of over a decade of development, but the Eurocopter AS350 B3+ and Bell 407 are brilliant examples of his work...  not to mention the brilliant plugins like DreamEngine sounds. Then Dreamfoil went quiet about three years ago, disappeared off the X-Plane Simulator radar.
 
There was another brilliant project released for X-Plane 11 by Dreamfoil Creations and that was a small gem of a ultra-light Schweizer S300CBi two-seater helicopter, now both DreamFoil and the S300CBi are back for X-Plane 12.
 

 
By all accounts this the S300CBi a small machine, almost more like a large backpack of strapping on an engine and rotor blades, James Bond style, than a fully fledged flying machine. But even when considering the compact size of the aircraft, it has the capacity to be not only a good working machine, carry two people and fly a fair distance, but I doubt I would want to spend 101 hours in a hover pattern in it.
 
The prototype of this machine first flew as far back 2nd October 1956. In other words only weeks before I was born, and that is nearly sixty seven years ago. That aircraft was the Hughes Model 269, and only by 9th April 1959 did the 269 actually receive certification. In 1964, Hughes introduced the slightly-larger three-seat Model 269B which it marketed as the Hughes 300.
 
The Hughes 300 was followed in 1969 by the improved Hughes 300C (sometimes known as the 269C), which first flew on 6 March 1969 and received FAA certification in May 1970. This new model introduced a more powerful 190 hp (140 kW) Lycoming HIO-360-D1A engine and increased diameter rotor, giving a payload increase of 45%, plus overall performance improvements. It was this model that Schweizer began building the 300C under license from Hughes in 1983. In 1986, Schweizer acquired all rights to the helicopter from McDonnell Douglas, which had purchased Hughes Helicopters in 1984. the helicopter was known for a short time as the Schweizer-Hughes 300C and then simply, the Schweizer 300C.
The basic design remained unchanged over the decades. Between both Hughes and Schweizer, and including foreign-licensed production civil and military training aircraft, nearly 3,000 units of the Model 269/300 have been built and flown over the last 50 years.
 
The CBi version available here is the fuel injected version of the 300CB that alleviates carburetor icing concerns in colder temperatures. The 300CBi also includes overspeed protection and an automatic rotor engagement during start-up, as well as a low rotor RPM warning system.
 
So here is the X-Plane 12 version of the S300CBi. If you had flown the original X-Plane 11 version you will find this new version very familiar. It is modeling and detail wise, but there is still a substantial twist on the basics to make the aircraft really shine in X-Plane 12.
 
First off is that the XP12 version has the new 4k PBR textures...  and "Wow"
 

 
I remember the quality was good, but the striking thing here is that the X-Plane 12 detail now feels levels above again over the X-Plane 11 version, you can almost touch those molded pressed metal panels and the rivet construction. Note the absolutely perfect window frame and door panel. The 32.5 gallons (123 liters) fuel tank is perfectly designed as well, most S300's have two for a full 65 Gal capacity, the frame is there, but the tank isn't attached? but wait it is! as the extra range auxiliary tank is now set as an option.
 

 
The highlight here is the amazing belt system running off the Lycoming HIO-360-D1A engine that connects to the tail rotor prop-shaft, in detail it is astounding in creation and animation, of course your life depends on any of those bands not breaking.
 

 
The whole guts of the machine is on show, beautifully created, you can spend hours dissecting it all and marveling at the intricate work here, as all detail is so complete. Even small items like the engine oil and air filters, piping and exhaust systems which are all exceptionally well done. Again you feel it all looks very different from the XP11 version, as everything pops out at you and simply cries "Realism". Same options are available with the exhaust, with "Short", "Long" and "Long+Tip" versions all available.
 

 
Rotor linkages and control rods are the heart of great helicopter design, and shows the skills of the developer. DreamFoil is certainly the best, and the expert work really shows here. As all the links are animated and perfectly done too, and they work (animated) from the cockpit all the way up to the rotor hub and out to the moving blades.
 

 
Move the controls, Cyclic, Collective and they all work perfectly. More clever stuff is also the rubber covers will also move in shape to the linkage movement...  the detail here is in the extreme with great texture work in that the assemblies are perfectly worn and highly realistic.
 



 
At the end of the long boom tail, the tail rotor assembly is just as highly detailed, with again those magnificent animated boots. Yaw movement (Rudder) is again animated and perfect.
 

 
Another change is that the rotor hub adjust, where you could move the rotor blades to a set position is now gone (or moved). It is replaced by a "Rotor Tie" menu, that can add on the blade, hub and windshield covers. You can also use the same point and click tool on each of the separate blades.
 

 
Another point and click menu will lower or raise the wheels, note the lovely spring and cover action to the skids.
 

 
Initially I found the cockpit windows too dark, almost black compared to the XP11 S300CBi? Then I found in the Menu, now there is a slider that will adjust the translucency of the windows from 0% to 100%, and I found that 50% opacity was about perfect (as before).
 

 
Doors of course can be opened, or removed altogether, either by touch or via the menu.
 

 
Cockpit
Internally the cockpit is the same, with the same seats and materials. But again everything is highlighted more by the higher quality textures and the excellent X-Plane 12 lighting...  Realism 101
 

 
Those seats are thin, but the vinyl seating covers are just so realistic in their shapes, stitching and light reflections. Quality headphones that are hanging on the center roof support can be used by clicking on them, and the external sound goes down (slightly) with their usage. Slender collectives both sit between the seats for either pilot or co-pilot use, and you can hide the control set (collective and cyclic) if you want to. Twist throttle movement is excellent.
 

 
Panel instruments are quite basic which would mean VFR rules only, turn on the power and the GPS Garmin GNS 430 powers up as does the Garmin GTX 32, which is the built in transponder unit.
 

 
Instruments are top row down is (left to right)....    Chronometer, Vertical speed, Speed (knots/MPH), Altitude, Engine RPM, Manifold Pressure.
 
But wait?
You can now also select (or insert) an Artificial Horizon (missing before), and that makes the V/S and Altitude instruments shuffle across and down to fit.
 

 
Another option is to replace the GNS 430 with a Bendix/King KY 98A that is usable for COMM 1 use.
 
A set of six gauges cover...   Fuel Gauge - Fuel Pressure Gauge - Cylinder Head Temperature, and lower, Oil Pressure Gauge (PSI) - Oil Temperature Gauge - Ammeter Gauge. Below the gauges is a hourly Hobbs Meter.
Lighting switchgear includes - both adjustable avionic and panel lighting, panel main switch, position and beacon switches. Fuel mixture and fuel shutoff knobs with electrical main key switch, Battery and Alternator switches are also lower right panel. All the Circuit Breakers (fuses) are active, and each function is fully listed in the manual.
 
To note that the Cylinder Head Temperature (CHT) here is driven by a custom algorithm which simulates more realistically the CHT behavior to give a more realistic flying experience, instead of it being just a dumb gauge.
 
The Panel at night is very nice (so was the XP11, but a bit too bright) here it is lit perfect.
 

 
Menu
For X-Plane 12 the menu system has been overhauled. Gone is the spinning dial menu, mainly because it was too limited for all the options. The menu now is a bit more a standard rank and file square, but it can hold far more features and options. You access the menu via a "hotspot" top right corner of the Instrument panel...
 

 
You can also access the menu externally by pressing a "hotspot" lower windshield.
 

 
Originally you had eight selections, but here you have two more in ten selections...  Menu items include: Smart livery - Stability - Customize - Report - Volume - Weights - Correlator - Quick Views - Extra - Settings. Missing is the POV (Point Of View) feature.
 
Smart Livery: There was Eleven liveries with the XP11 version. Installed here are Five liveries: White (default), Calypso, Grapite, Orange, Purple and Silver Blue. But on the X-Plane.Org there are another 25 selections!, so altogether there are 36 liveries to choose from. Note the Calypso, this livery comes with floats.
 
The new Smart Livery menu is of course different than the circular version before, in the choice, it is now on a horizontal scroll.
 

 


 
Stability: This feature allows you to specify the percentages for (Yaw, Roll and Pitch) in stability augmentation. The "Rigid Cruise" feature shares the same principle of Stability Augmentation, but instead of keeping in a fixed value, and it will progressively increase the values from Hover to Cruise, in so making long flights an easier task for general simmers....  in other words holds the aircraft to make it easier to fly.
 

 
Customize: There are a lot (loads) of options were you can customize the S300CBi...  top is the "Panel" options in the shown "Alt Indicator" and "Garmin 430" (or Bendix/King KY 98A)
 

 
Next are options for the "Covers & Tie(downs)", shortcuts include "All On" and "All Off", and "Doors" on/off
 

 
Next is the "Exhaust" options...  Short, Long and Long+Tip
 

 
"Wheels/Floats/Spray kit" these options first remove the wheels on the skids, put some very nice floats on the S300CBi, and finally install a very nice "Spray Kit" with twin mounted inboard tanks.
 

 
"Windshield Opacity" can be graded from 0% to 100%, note here is that the setting is not saved? so you have to adjust it at every new startup?
 

 
Next three options include a "GPU" (Ground Power Unit), but it is more of a Power Stick, called a Li-Ion start stick, which is stuck into the side of the machine. The second "AUX fuel tank" option, and an external "Hook" under the S300CBi.
 

 
"Governor Kit" allows you to have on the Collective a Governor, or a clean short collective. The Schweizer 300CBi is not equipped with governor from the factory, but in few cases owners do install the kit which is unofficial and may vary on functionality.
 

 
Last customized options include, a Yaw String in the cockpit window, and the Co-Pilot Cyclic and Rudder Pedals on/off
 

 
Report: Report gives you a status message about helicopter usage, it's useful to see if you have stressed the helicopter. Includes Fuel estimate – It's an estimate in hours of your current - Datcom Engine (engine hourmeter), Datcom Flight (flight hourmeter), Min and Max G's - This indicates the maximum and minimum values that helicopter structure has experienced, including during a crash. You can also reset "ALL" or "G".
 

 
Sounds: Sadly the original "DreamEngine" plugin sounds are now long gone. Now replaced with the same sounds, but under the FMOD XP12 system. This is the menu adjustment for eight different sound parameters, the slider adjustment is used to change the percentage %
 

 
Weights: The Weights menu shows you your: Pilot Weight, Pax Weight, Main Fuel Weight, Aux Fuel Weight - Fuel Estimate and Total (aircraft weight).
 

 
Colelator: More a developer tool, this shows the aircraft parameters and presets, with a debug option panel lower left.
 

 
Quick Views: this menu selection gives you ten pre-set views of the internal and external aspects of the S300CBi
 

 
Extra: There are two "Extra" options. The first is a one page (basic) "Checklist", you scroll it up and down at your convenience. Second option is the "Slung Window" or to see the position of your hung load from the hook.
 

 
Settings: There are four "Settings" available in...  "Units" Metric or Imperial. "External Spots" will put "animated hotspots" on the aircraft for actions like; Rotor Brake, Adding Fuel, Moving Wheels....  One action that has been moved from the top of the main rotor to the tail rotor, is the blade centre adjust. Here now you turn the tail, which moves the main rotor blades to the centre parked position.
 

 
GeForce...  This option allows you to adjust the "Lateral" and "Vertical" forces against the aircraft, and a slider or keypad is used to adjust the percentage %
 

 
Final "Settings" option is the "Rotor Particles" or the exhaust plume in on/off.
 
In the external view you get a pilot, not the most detailed human, and he is non-animated as well...  but he looks fine for the job in hand.
 

__________________
 
Flying the Schweizer S300CBi
I was expecting the Schweizer S300CBi to be very, very nervous or twitchy aircraft, as it is such a very small agile little insect of a machine. But in fact it was quite a well balanced and quite a stable aircraft to fly...  the trick is to manage your X-Plane and Dreamfoil settings to get the best balance and control...  playing with the yaw response curve can do wonders, also there is a "Cyclic Adjustment" below the front of the main pilot's seat, this actuator is a small electrical motor on cyclic base which can apply lateral and longitudinal forces, and you can adjust it via two rotating knobs.
 

 
Startup was quite easy. Power (Bat) and Alt switches on, make sure the mixture knob is in, turn the key and hold the starter switch for a short while... (the switch changes if you use the governor, on the short stick the start button is on the front)...  so starting is easy, lawnmowers are harder.
 

 
The Governor will correctly simulate the correlator behavior which is a link between the collective and the throttle to reduce pilot workload, when raising the collective it will also increase throttle or vice-versa. Also notable is the clutch which has 3 modes...  OFF – Manual, SLOW – Automatic engage in slow speed and FAST – An automatic engage used when belt system is already on a high temperature, like after a flight.
 
When the temps are up to their correct temperature then you can increase the RPM via the throttle grip, the RPM settles down around 2,700 rpm
 

 
The slim boom tail yaw can be twitchy at first until you feel it, then your away...   slight cyclic forward (not too much!) as you gain height moves you forward, when have enough ground, you can give the cyclic more of a forward push, so you can climb and collect speed at the same time, but don't over do it...  just nice and easy. Rate of climb is tops at 750 ft/min (3.82 m/s).
 

 
Anyway you don't want to go too high, as skimming the trees gives you the feeling of speed, as this critter doesn't really go that fast....  Maximum speed is only 95 kn (109 mph, 176 km/h) and your cruise speed is 86 kn (99 mph, 159 km/h), you could probably run faster.
 

 
Biggest advantage with the XP12 version is the addition of the Artificial Horizon... I found when I used to fly the S300CBi, it was it always flew a bit lop-sided, because it suited itself flying at this angle. Now I have a reference line to straighten the machine up correctly and it makes a huge difference in your flying...   in going straight!
 

 
Sounds are the same, but slightly more advanced than before in now being FMOD based, but there is still the same excellent 3D zoom with directional sound, with an authentic HO-360 engine sound in the rear, blade slap is great if you push the nose too high and volumetric cockpit sounds come with more noise if you don't wear your headset, or even louder if you open or remove the doors...
 
As you bank or roll, there is the need to push the cyclic slightly forward to keep the altitude correct, keep it centre, and you will climb. But that sweet flying aspect is still there, small cyclic movements does all the work, as this was the biggest attraction to the S300CBi, probably even better now with the superior X-Plane 12 dynamics. Range of the S300CBI is only 195 nmi, 360 km (204 miles).
 

 
Even though it is only a small container sized cabin. It is all very panoramic, as you feel open and every view is excellent, even the machinery twirling above your head is very noticeable. Certainly if you have a VR (Virtual Reality) headset, it would be levels better again.
 

 
Effective translational lift (ETL) here is excellent, as you reach into the lower speed zone, around 15 knots, but restraining the speed is quite tricky in trying to slow the Schweizer down...  it takes a little practise to get that aspect perfectly right, but Dreamfoil's aircraft were always based very highly on the skills, it is again here. Approaches are low and slow, then find that perfect ETL point as you go into the hover.
 

 
The S300CBi is still classed as a "light utility" machine, so it is very light in the feel, but you soon switch in...  get it wrong though, like I did in the last few feet and the absorbing skids will compress and soften the blow (and your ego)...  another great detail from Dreamfoil.
 

 
Probably need to do that one again.
 
Lighting
Cockpit and panel lighting is excellent, the panel as noted is not as bright as the XP11 version, but far better here.... both the instruments and Avionics that can be adjusted separately. External lighting is great with navigation (side rear boom) which are steady, and rear flash strobes.
 

 
There is a green spot map light on the rear bulkhead that can be fully adjusted in all axis and it is also very good.
 

 
Under the aircraft there is a spotlight, that is accessed by a hard to see switch on the front of the cyclic. The spotlight is also fully adjustable to get the right lighting angle via a pop-up slider.
 
Summary
One of the great X-Plane helicopter developers in Dreamfoil Creations has had a break for a few years. Now he is back with a transition aircraft to X-Plane 12 of one of his earlier excellent helicopters in the Schweizer S300CBi, a twin-seat Ultra-Light for X-Plane 11. 
 
This machine was very popular with the punters and chopper jockeys, because of it's sweet flying capabilities, and nothing has certainly changed in that area here, if anything the dynamics are even more heightened in X-Plane 12.
 
When one of the "Old Guard" comes up with a release you can see and feel the difference. Certainly Dreamfoil is a mastercraftsman, but the S300CBI is even more masterful and the extreme quality shows in every part of this helicopter now available in X-Plane 12. It comes with fully functioning systems and components in the rotors and the controls are to be marveled at here, in fact everything can be admired, as the whole machine is exquisitely crafted to the highest degree and takes advantage of all the X-Plane 12 features, a bonus is this is also one of the very best sweetest machines to have and fly. VR ready as well.
 
This is not just a straight conversion to X-Plane 12 of the S300CBi. As almost every area has had attention, notable the PBR textures to 4K, but the glass, sounds (now FMOD) and the details are all enhanced or transformed into a higher quality. The Menu is expanded as well, as long as your arm, and probably your leg as well, it is full of options and tools...  including the Smart Livery system (but different here), Stability, Covers/Ties, removable Doors, Floats and an excellent Crop Spray Kit, Aux Tank, Li-Ion start stick, Hook, Governor Kit and on it goes, and new is windshield Opacity. And all the external spots will give you access to the various parts of the aircraft, and Quick Views is in there as well.
 
Basically the "Master" is back, and again Dreamfoil delivers an exceptional Simulation machine in the Schweizer S300CBi. Fabulous investment, but skills are required to get the most out of this Ultra-Light Helicopter. Hopefully more of his Creations in the AS350 B3+ and the Bell 407 will follow the S300CBi into X-Plane 12, until then, you already have a Premier Helicopter Simulation here for the X-Plane Simulator with this amazing Schweizer machine.
__________________________
 

 
Yes! - the Schweizer S300CBi XP12 by Dreamfoil Creations is NOW available from the X-Plane.Org Store here :
 
Schweizer S300CBi XP12
Price is US$39.95 : On sale: $39.95 US$34.95
You Save:$5 (13%)
 
Requirements
X-Plane 12
Windows, Mac or Linux 8 GB+ VRAM Recommended Download Size: 445 MB Current version : 1.0 (November 20th 2023)   Designed by DreamFoil Creations Support forum for the S300CBi XP12   Installation
Installation of Schweizer S300CBi XP12 is done via a download of 423 Mb...   With a total installation size of 1.02Gb. (Excluding extra liveries)
  There is one basic Manual pdf (20 pages)
 

 
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 12.08b3 (This is a Beta review).
Plugins: Traffic Global - JustFlight-Traffic (X-Plane.OrgStore) US$52.99 : Global SFD plugin US$30.00
Scenery or Aircraft
- KFMY - Page Field - Fort Myers, Florida 1.0 by timbenedict3 (X-Plane.Org) - Free
___________________________
 
News by Stephen Dutton
25th November 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 Update Review : Tecnam P2006T v9.1 by vSkyLabs
 
The Tecnam P2006T is an Italian twin-engine, high-wing light aircraft developed by Tecnam (Costruzioni Aeronautiche TECNAM S.p.A). Its history reflects the evolution of general aviation needs, particularly for an affordable, versatile, and efficient twin-engine aircraft.
 
The Tecnam P2006T project began in the early 2000s as a response to the growing demand for a cost-effective twin-engine aircraft suitable for pilot training, private use, and light commercial operations. Tecnam was already known for producing high-quality light aircraft, aimed to create a twin-engine model that would be economical to operate and maintain while still offering modern avionics and safety features. The P2006T aircraft made its maiden flight on September 13, 2007. Its performance, particularly its ability to operate efficiently with lower horsepower engines, the design impressed many in the general aviation community.
 
Initially the Tecnam P2006T was released by vSkyLabs in May 2017, it has had a few revisions, and an early aircraft conversion to X-Plane 12. But here is the full revision of the aircraft to X-Plane 12, completing the conversion process.
 
Do all general aviation aircraft have to be upright? Here the single-engined Tecnam P2004 Bravo, grew into the twin-engined P2006T, with the design change then Tecnam were also to define the "Light Sports Aircraft" into a more sleeker and modern design that moved the company into another higher category. The highly streamlined shape and modern upswept wing fences, give the aircraft a more different feel and style than say a Cessna, Piper and Beechcraft. Very euro and Italian in look as well, the Tecnam just doesn't conform to the standard GA configuration.
 


 
Costruzioni Aeronautiche Tecnam is an Italian aeronautics manufacturer that was founded in 1986. The company has two primary activities in one is that it mainly makes aircraft parts for other manufacturers, and in two it makes its own range of light aircraft. It is in the first activity of making parts is in why the Italian company's name doesn't really roll off any aviation's bluffs tongue, like say Piaggio or Augsta, but it is still a manufacturer and it is in this their latest aircraft the P2006T that was certified in 2010 that is the company's push for mainstream sales.
 
The P2006T is currently the lightest twin-engined certified aircraft available, and is a four-seat aircraft with fully retractable landing gear and has liquid-cooled Rotax engines that can run on 92 octane unleaded automotive gasoline as well as 100LL (Avgas).
 
It is unusual in that the Rotax 912S3 horizontally opposed four-cylinder geared piston engines, 73.5 kW (98.6 hp) as each of the cylinder heads are liquid-cooled and there are no cooling vanes on the cylinder barrels (a la the Volkswagen Beetle). Thus both using cooling airflow through the nacelle, and a cooling radiator is required in each cowl. Electric starters are used to start the engines on the ground, but must also be used for an inflight restart, since the highly geared engines cannot be turned by airflow alone past the stopped propeller. Thus, for FAA certification, the company was required to add in a backup battery in addition to the standard battery.
 
There are two versions available here and both are part of the package from vSkyLabs, the Original "Analog", and the "Glass" G1000 version, included also is the P2006T MkII' option which includes the Garmin G1000 Nxi package. Both versions are noted separately in the "Flight Configuration Menu".
 

 
vSkyLabs uses the modeling to do the detailing. They are a very good modeler, but not of a very high wireframe count, so you get curves not not perfectly round corners, and instead straight lines... that said the proportions are well done, as is the shape.
 

  The Tecnam looks like a composite but it is actually an all metal construction, Italian styling gives it that smooth clean look that only Italian designers can. Rivets are indented, and not pronounced to give the feel of the construction, the actual rivets though are only art work.  

 
External textures have had a revision for better PBR in the normal mapping, its not a big change, but it is noticeable in the depth of the colour and shine, in other words very XP12. Wing detail is good, but the modeling is slightly wonky in parts, again the work needed to be finer and certainly in the inner sections, but the upright wing fence is nicely done.
 

 
Glass is very good, with great scratch marks for realism, again the glass edges, certainly around the far rear window which are all a bit average in requiring a finer radius, a common theme here.
 

 
The engine nacelles are unusual in shape, bulky and bulbous, but well done, except for the air inlets, as the sawn-holed shapes are highly visible in being very clunky.
 

 
Three position flaps 0º (Flaps up), 15º (Takeoff Position) and 40º (Landing Position) are basic but well done, as you can see the construction and link mechanism that operate the flap, all the flaps are electrically powered in the P2006T.
 

  The undercarriage is a clever arrangement. The rear gear sits on stubs on the side of the fuselage, and then retracts into the body of the aircraft, the stub nose wheel just slips into the nose, and nicely done with all the wheel linkages, hydraulic pipes and brake assemblies which are all covered here and the tyres look realistic.     In a quirk with the original Tecnam from vSkyLabs, that if you opened the pilot's left side door, then the right side passenger door would open at the same time? That has now long been fixed by "Hotspots" to open either door, but only from the inside (if you know the location, it will still work by opening the door externally, but not authentically by the handle), the rear door is also very tight, as it doesn't open very wide.     ... as with all vSkyLabs aircraft, there are no Menus, tabs or static elements, the point of the aircraft is in the dynamics of flight, and they are an ongoing development with consistent updates.   Instruments and Avionics The main feature on the vSkyLabs Tecnam are the twin choices of either the "Analog" or "Glass" (Garmin G1000) instruments and avionic set ups..   It is a well laid out modern instrument panel, flying instruments right and backup and engine readouts left. You can hide the basic Yokes, but only both and not individually.     The Standard Six instruments that are centred in line of sight of the flying pilot with the Airspeed Indicator, Artificial Horizon and the Attitude Indicator on the top row and the bank/turn coordinator, Heading Dial and Vertical Speed Indicators set out directly below, there is right the two large VOR OBS dials for VOR1 above and VOR2 below. Deep below is a pitch indicator. Centre panel is dominated by both a GNS530 (top) and a GNS 430 (below) that both pop out...     ...   You get an S-Tec FiftyFive X Autopilot set centre top. Centre panel bottom is a Decker ADF dial and transponder. Lower radio unit is the standard Garmin GMA347 (revised for this update).
 
Co-Pilot's instruments are more disarranged in their layout with only the Artificial Horizon and Airspeed Indicator centre with the Attitude Indicator set far below. The rest of the instruments cover Manifold pressure, Fuel pressure PSI (both engines), Temp, Amps/Volts (engines) and both fuel tanks deep below left.. A full set of two gauges cover the engine outputs with RPM (x100), CHT, Oil Temp and pressure.
 
Lower panels cover all switchgear with Pitot, AP, Main and RH Field left and lighting right, centre is the main Avionic and bus 1&2 switches. Flap indicator is the only function on the left lower panel.
  Updates in version v9.1 include that all the cockpit textures and normals reproduced here are increased by a factor of two for crisp gauges and labels resolution. Meaning a more clearer and sharper set of instruments and gauges. The Main Annunciation panel has been completely remodeled, re-textured and re-wired to new dedicated warning lighting system. You can test it as well via the "test" button.     Gears lights and indications and the GMA347 have also been as noted re-textured, modeled and wired to new dedicated lighting systems.   G1000 Avionics The second choice of avionic package is the Garmin G1000. Basically the Laminar Research G1000 inserted here in the P2006T. Yes it is upgraded, as Laminar updated the G1000 avionics in X-Plane version v12.1.0, as it now has the better start up screens and enhancements.     The G1000 installation here changes the layout quite considerably, as the main Standard Six instruments now become the backup instruments that are now spaced centre lower panel. Airspeed Indicator, Artificial Horizon and the Attitude Indicator are all that is now required with the Fuel Pressure (both engines) set left centre. Manifold pressure, RPM (x100), CHT, Oil Temp and pressure with Amps/Volts are now down low and all squeezed together on the right hand panel, but it somehow all works fine.
 
The Decker ADF dial  is now far left lower panel and a few of the main power switches are now moved on to the centre panel lower panel where they look better, standard lighting switchgear is right lower panel.
 
The G1000 displays do pop-out and can be resized (scaled) or made into pop-out windows (computer windows). 
    Most of the switchgear/avionics is transferred to the G1000 system in radio settings/transponder, autopilot controls, engine readouts and the main primary flight instruments (PFD).
 

  I'm a little confused about the "Nxi package". Yes the screens and details have been revised to a better G1000 3d modeling and PBR textures come with a higher resolution and brightness as per the Nxi. But you don't get the Nxi coloured runways or optional quick popup screens that allow you to insert both departure and arrival airports (changes) as part of the FPL (Flightplan). New however are the four new MFD screen options... Traffic Map, Stormscope, Weather Data and TAWS B.      The Terrain Awareness and Warning System (TAWS) is an on-board system used in aircraft to prevent unintentional impacts with the ground, often referred to as Controlled Flight Into Terrain (CFIT) accidents. The TAWS B system is slightly less comprehensive than TAWS A and is typically used in smaller aircraft like the Tecnam.   Earlier releases had a significant difference between the Analog and G1000 panel facias, before a graded khaki for the analog, and brighter steel for the G1000. Here they seems closer together in the graded khaki style. The steel version looked average anyway, so it is the better choice.     The lower mini-pedestal is nicely done with twin levers for Throttle, Carburettor Heat and Propeller (feather), It is misleading in thinking that the central two yellow are the PROP levers, and the two right outer levers are the MIXTURE, but there are no mixture levers in here, so you can't shut down the engines by cutting the fuel supply? rudder pedals have an odd yellow wear on them, but look authentic.     Side Circuit Breaker (Fuse) panels are all new, retextured and look very nice. But all are still inactive?   You can select (Hotspot) a AviTab, down left door pocket. The Tablet sits on the left hand Yoke, making it very handy and easy to use (see). It has all the usual AviTab functions including Navigraph if you have a subscription (Plugin Required).     The cabin is slightly different. First again retextured and it comes with better PBR. The colours basically stay the same, but the lovely grey version seats with the rear pockets have gone, all seats in both versions are now all white, with blue "Tecnam" logos, cabin cream colour is still the same, but the striking orange seatbelts now have replaced the older darker colours.     Under seat frame detail is excellent, and you get a hard case container in the luggage bay rear. Roof mounted Fuel Selectors, Fuel Pump and the Ignition/Starter switches which are required not only to start the aircraft but to shutdown the engines as well, and the props can be strangely odd in that they don't wind down but simply electric stop mid-rotation, The fuel tank switches are up here as well.   _________________ Flying the Tecnam P2006T Starting either engine is simple, simple...  Power on, Fuel tank selected, External lights on, set Avionics....  then just select the "Ignition" switches and press the red "Starter" button, and each engine will instantly start, with no hesitation or slow winding, your quickly running at idle speed. To switch off the engines, you just flick off the same switches, it feels very modern, even electric.    
Taxiing is nice, easy to keep the centreline...  if there is too much power (forward movement), you can adjust the propeller pitch angle via the two PROPELLER levers (the blue levers), and find your best "bite" for the best taxi speed you want, it works well here...
 

 
Taxi direction is best via the rudder pedals, as the yaw joystick is a bit too sharp, and only then only small fractional movements are required.
 

 
Power up and the two Rotaxs 912S3 horizontally opposed four-cylinder geared piston engines of 75 kW (100 hp) each, pulls you off the line quickly... there is no nasty asymmetric thrust as the Tecnam P2006T has Counter-Rotating Propellers, in one propeller rotates clockwise, and the other rotates counterclockwise. This allows you to stay arrow straight right down the centreline, you would be surprised how easy it tracks here with no counter forces.
 

 
Although the Tecnam is not classified as a Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) aircraft, at 65 knts your nose is ready to lift (Flaps T.O)...
 

 
...  this is not, or feels like a geriatric 50's based GA, but a thoroughly modern machine, it handles like one, clean, fast going through the air.
 

 
Gear animation is excellent, smooth and well done here...  climb out is 1,260 feet per minute (fpm), but 1,000 fpm is the most effective climb. Both the airfoils and performance has had an X-Plane 12 update. And you feel the difference once in the air, the Tecnam reacts and flies very well.     Sounds here are very good and are already FMOD directional dynamic. It is amazing how quickly new features mature and become part of the background in a very short time. It already has the FMOD 2.0 sound package since v9.0, so that sound focused area is already updated.   Dumb me... I couldn't activate the Autopilot (Flightplan)... twice? Once in the air I set the Tecnam on a heading south to connect into the FPL, both the G530 (analog) and G1000 (glass) have PROC (Procedures) if you need to use them, but this is a simple point to point flightplan.   You have to switch on the AP, but the switches are in different places on each version...  the AP switch on the analog is down on the lower left panel, and partly hidden by the Yoke. On the G1000 it is upper left of the PFD, yes I know, right in front of me, but I couldn't find it?          I was twiddling too much with either CDI (selector) to work out where the AP switch was...  so you need to study the layout of the chosen version of the set up before flight, so you get it right first time.     Lighting The lighting is quite different between P2006T versions. On the analog it is very nice. There is the usual backlit instruments (adjustable) and switchgear, but also the added red panel lighting (adjustable).     Illumination is nice on the roof switches and the cabin light works (but dullish), reflects on the front seats.     The G1000 is quite similar. The same standard (adjustable) panel lighting, and the nice red panel lighting (also adjustable)...  but those huge 10.4 inch displays throw off a lot of brightness, thankfully you can tone the brightness down (but only with both screens together).     Honestly the red glow looks better than in these images, as being more uniform. Same overhead setup, but you wish for a better (on both) cabin light, as the rear cabin is very dark?     External lighting is pretty basic. Both a Landing and Taxi light are in the left wing, Navigation lights and some very nice Strobes.     The Côte d'Azur looks amazing in the late afternoon, you can see the higher quality of X-Plane 12 quite clearly on the internal reflections of the Tecnam, X-Plane 12 can deliver great experiences when required. It is debatable on which version to fly...  I have always favored the analog, but I am in liking the G1000 version here a lot. The updated G1000 experience has created a better, more realistic immersion.     But for a small-twin the performance of the P2006T is impressive. Maximum speed is 287 km/h; 178 mph (155 kn) with a cruise speed of 250 km/h; 155 mph (135 kn) with a range of 1,374 km (854 mi; 742 nmi). However the already stated rate of climb is 1,260 ft/min or 250 ft/min on single engine and the service ceiling is 4,300 m (14,000 ft). So the Tecnam will go fast, but climbs slowly and to only 14,000ft. Most twins in this category can climb at 1600 - 1900 ft per min to 25,000ft.   It is only 160 kilometers (or about 100 miles) between Marseille and Nice, but still a nice scenic route, keeping to 4,000ft gives you a great vista of the coastline.     Now I go off the flightplan, as I have as noted set any arrival PROC (Procedures), but I still use the LOC (APP) to line up the Tecnam to Nice Rwy 04R (110.70 NA).     I know from experience that the 04R ILS is not set correctly, it sorts of aims you between both 04L and 04R, but lined up and at 2,000ft, I can clearly see the approach.   The speed area between the full flap and 60knts it is very tight, below and your in a stall, and it is only 15knts higher as your approach speed. So you have very little room to adjust the speed to keep the aircraft airborne and getting too much lift, or then either stalling into the runway. But there feels more margin than before in this speed zone with the v9.1 update, not much though, but still enough to give you more confidence.     Barely a few k's out from the 04R threshold I drop the gear, nice....     Now lined up on 04R, I always like the side (window) view when landing at Nice (LFMN), as it never fails to deliver a great scenic view  

 
75 knts over the threshold, and throttle adjustment feels great, (I reduced the PROP a little), then just slid down slowly to the runway surface when reducing the speed below 73 knts, again there are no forces working against you with asymmetric thrust, as the power balance is perfect for keeping the aircraft directly on the centre line.... touch is around 70 knts!     Yes I would have like a bit more flare there (nose up), but there is a big definite improvement in the handing and power control than what I remembered on the earlier vSkyLab Tecnams, more range for more control... it's very nice aerodynamically.   _________________   Liveries The liveries work and are the same on both versions, there is only six, a blank, Classic Stripes, I-SMP (Military), Blue-Red, Silver Grey and Yellow.     There is also a vSkyLabs (free) livery pack of another nine liveries that you can down load from the X-Plane.Org...     They include; AERONAUTICA MILITARE, CS-EAQ, EC-LHB, EC-LUM Guardia Civil, EC-OEY OneAir (recently published), F-HCLC Air Marine, LV-GVM, N260JL Clover Park and OE-FKN Geo Survey. _________________   Summary Updated to v9.1 for X-Plane 12, the vSkyLabs Tecnam P2006T is in some ways two aircraft in one. One being the Analog instrument version, the other the Glass Garmin G1000 with twin display avionics. and overall it is an extremely nice update to this very modern four-seater General Aviation aircraft, that feels almost electric in many ways.   Modelling is great without being that pure extreme tick all the boxes look, as curves are a bit straight, rather than curved, but you have to look close or be finicky to be aware of it. Internally the textures have all been upgraded in quality and PBR to the latest standards, and the cockpit is far better with new orange seatbelts that really stand out, both doors now work as well. The G1000 (X-Plane 12.1.0) update created a far better immersion of the G1000 avionics system, including four extra modes, and that version is installed here. XP12 dynamics, performance and new airfoils and all have been revised, and the aircraft totally feels far better for the adjustments in more range in the controls. Lighting has also been revised on both versions, but the cabin overhead light is still too dull or simply missing a rear cabin light. Sounds to FMOD 2 were updated earlier. Annunciation panel has also been completely revised and system now more realistically intergrated.   There are no menus or special features, but Vskylab's doesn't always do those sort of addon's anyway, and what you do get is an interesting aircraft in two types with the original analog aircraft and the G1000 glass cockpit version that is focused on the flying handling characteristics. VR (Virtual Reality) is a big plus here if you have the gear, as vSkyLabs are well diversed in this area.   It's a harder choice now? do you stick with the older Analog flying, or go to the far better and improved G1000 version, the old hands will obviously stay with the dials, but the G1000 is now certainly a more attractive proposition. I am a big supporter of the vSkyLab philosophy and the on going value and development that they deliver. Any aircraft from vSkyLab is an investment with consistent (free) updates, and this is a great interesting aircraft if not the usual run of the mill American design of the standard 4 seater light-twin General Aviation aircraft.   Recommended! _________________
 

 
Yes! - the Tecnam P2006T v9.1 by vSkyLabs is NOW available from the X-Plane.Org Store here :
 
Tecnam P2006T
Price is US$32.95 (Currently on sale for only US26.36!)
You Save:$6.59(20%)
 
Requirements
X-Plane 12 or X-Plane 11 Windows, Mac or Linux 8 GB+ VRAM Recommended Download Size: 563 MB Current version: 9.1  (XP12 - August 1st 2024)   AviTab Plugin is required for this aircraft   Note: In order to use and enjoy VR environment in X-Plane, user hardware and system specs should meet the required specifications for OS, CPU, GPU, MB and RAM which are specified both in the given VR hardware websites and at X-Plane.com.   Aircraft download is 576.91Mb, and unpacked then installed in your X-Plane "Aircraft" folder 718Mb   Documents HOW TO INSTALL
- How to INSTALL your VSKYLABS aircraft.pdf
- How to UPDATE your VSKYLABS aircraft.pdf
INSTRUCTIONS-MANUAL-POH
- S-TEC Autopilot Manual.pdf
- VSKYLABS Tecnam P2006T POH.pdf
- VSL Tecnam P2006T Essentials.pdf
- X-Plane G430 Manual.pdf
- X-Plane G530 Manual.pdf
- X-Plane G1000 Manual.pdf  
Designed by VSKYLABS Support forum for the P2006T _____________________
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 12.1.1
Plugins: Traffic Global - JustFlight-Traffic (X-Plane.OrgStore) US$52.99 : Global SFD plugin US$30.00
Scenery or Aircraft
- LFML- Airport Marseille XP by At (X-Plane.OrgStore) - US$24.99
- LFMN - Nice Cote d'Azur v2 by JustSim (X-Plane.OrgStore) - US$18.50
___________________________
 
Aircraft Review by Stephen Dutton
14th August 2024
Copyright©2024: X-Plane Reviews
 
(Disclaimer. All images and text in this review are the work and property of X-PlaneReviews, no sharing or copy of the content is allowed without consent from the author as per copyright conditions) All Rights Reserved
 

NEWS! - Laminar Research releases v12.1.2 beta 1
 

 
Is it me, or are Laminar Research's update releases getting very Microsoft FlightSim! Here is the latest in the "Caribbean Update"...  I mean that is an almost direct ripoff of MSFS "World Updates". it is on how Laminar tends to go on, it will be a copy store next!
 
At least the updates as promised are regular, instead of waiting months (sometimes months on months), the release timetable is now significantly faster, this is the second installment of X-Plane12.1.2 after the seven betas of v12.1.0 and the single release of X-Plane v12.1.1. This release is noted as a beta, so the tick box on the X-Plane installer app needs to be ticked to get the new version. Download size is a hefty 1.2Gb
 

 
Ships! Yes I'm using a lot of exclamation marks here...  but don't get carried away. These ships were due along with ports way back with the initial release of X-Plane 12 two years ago, so they were always in the works...  so what do you get? a LNG Carrier, Oil Tanker, Bulk Carrier, Container Carrier, Luxury Yacht, Sail Boats, Speed Boat and a Whaler. All of a sudden your lakes and coastline are full of boats and yachts (like the exploding number of Golf Courses). The number of boats shown depends on the "World Objects" Density setting within your Graphics Settings.
 

 
Notable is that Austin Meyer is surrounded by several sharks in a boat, certainly you can interpret that scenario anyway you want to.
 
Caribbean means several things. One it is all about the water. In the initial release the water was very translucent, showing the colours of various depths, very nice, but also shown was the translucent hulls of the ships and aircraft floats. That was corrected in v12.1.0, but too far in that you now lost the colours in tropical zones. In v12.1.2 that aspect has been again corrected with the right thick density in say the Northern waters, and the correct translucent in the tropical climates.
 
This aspect can be seen here at Sint Maarten...  coral shallow water on the left, but the deeper fuller on the right in the lagoon.
 

 
There are three new sceneries also provided in the release, again to highlight the Caribbean release.
 
Princess Juliana International Airport (TNCM)
Sint Maarten (is a constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in the Caribbean region of North America. With a population of 41,486 as of January 2019 on an area of 34 km2 (13 sq mi), it encompasses the southern 44% of the divided island of Saint Martin, while the northern 56% of the island constitutes the French overseas collectivity of Saint Martin. Sint Maarten's capital is Philipsburg.[8] Collectively, Sint Maarten and the other Dutch islands in the Caribbean are often called the Dutch Caribbean.
 

 
Juancho E. Yrausquin Airport (TNCS)
Juancho E. Yrausquin Airport is an airport on the island of Saba. It is famous for having one of the shortest commercial runways in the world with a length of just 1,312 ft (400 m). Our artists added a variety of custom buildings around the entire island as well as an orthographic overlay.
 

 
Gustaf III Airport (TFFJ)
Gustaf II Airport is located on the island of Saint Barthélemy, or St. Barth’s if you’re in the know. Due to TFFJ's short steep runway and a variety of obstacles, a special license is required to land at the airport. St. Barth’s lists as one of the most dangerous airports in the world.
 

 
Notable here is that you get to see the Bulk Carrier and the various small sail and whaler craft.
 

 
Gateway Airports
X-Plane 12.1.2 has reached a major milestone for Scenery Gateway. it now ships with 20,000 3D Airports thanks to the stunning work of the X-Plane community of designers. (but can someone do Bahrain OBBI, please)
 
Dual Jetways
What good are two boarding doors if your jetway only attaches to one?! By popular demand, now Laminar have added support for dual jetways. Aircraft/airport authors now also have the ability to update their products for this feature (to work)
 

 
New Library Objects
Newly added objects are now also available and have been added to the general airport library, such as some passenger stairs, airport buses and a Ground Power Unit.
 

 
Additional Camera Commands
With our General Aviation pilots especially in mind, Laminar have added in four new camera commands that will help you to look around quickly, especially when flying an approach. All can be set with custom commands.
 
The first two commands allow you to tilt the cockpit view by 45 degrees to the left and right. Executing the command again will tilt the view by another 45 degrees. We also added some commands to look up and down. Instead of 45 degrees, the camera will tilt 30 degrees and just as the other commands, you can execute the command again to look 60 or 90 degrees up and down.
Command Description sim/view/rot_cockpit_left_45 Rotate cockpit view: tilt 45 degrees left. sim/view/rot_cockpit_right_45 Rotate cockpit view: tilt 45 degrees right. sim/view/rot_cockpit_up_30 Rotate cockpit view: tilt 30 degrees up. sim/view/rot_cockpit_down_30 Rotate cockpit view: tilt 30 degrees down. Support for VirtualFly Hardware
There is now support for VirtualFly Hardware with 12.1.2, as it supports of four of the additional products VirtualFly have in X-Plane:
 
Switcho Engines Ignition Switcho Engines Electrical Switcho Lights Switcho Trims  
Fixes and Enhancements
There has been a few extra fixes as well with the X-Plane 12.1.2 update..
 
- Replay System
We have focused effort on improving the stability of our replay system for this release. Yes and Laminar needed to! as the replay system was very cranky and created a lot of CTD (Crash to Desktop), but the worse issue is the consistent nasty shudders while in playback... hope it is fixed?
- Local Web API
When the WebServer cannot bind to port 8086 a warning will be shown to the user, but X-Plane will continue to start normally.
- Scenery
Laminar updated the Eiffel Tower in Las Vegas. Not related to this release is the addition of the Las Vegas MSG Sphere, looks brilliant!
 

 
Aircraft
- General
We fixed a problem regarding rain drops on windshields (XPD-15751).
- Cirrus Vision SF50
We fixed an engine behavior bug in the Cirrus VisionJet. Previously, if you started the engine, shut it down and then immediately tried to start it again, nothing happened.
- Beta ALIA VTOL
The ALIA 250 now has gauges for all four batteries on its display.
 
So there you go, the "Caribbean Update" or X-Plane 12.1.2. The update is an excellent one, but noted currently as a "Beta". It comes with some major additions to the Simulator, and fixes to the Water (tones) and Replay. With highly detailed default scenery for Princess Juliana International Airport (TNCM), Juancho E. Yrausquin Airport (TNCS) and Gustaf III Airport (TFFJ) (St Barts). Added also were Duel airport airbridges and more Library Objects (Buses, Passenger Stairs, GPU), and the highlight in the highly detailed Ships, Boats, Yachts and Austin Meyer being chased by Sharks!
____________________
 
X-Plane 12 Minimum Requirements
CPU: Intel Core i3, i5, i7, or i9 CPU with 4 or more cores, or AMD Ryzen 3, 5, 7 or 9. (Those with other CPUs should try the demo before purchasing.) Memory: 8 GB RAM Video Card: a Vulkan 1.3-capable video card from NVIDIA or AMD with at least 2 GB VRAM If your system is borderline, we encourage you to try the demo first. The full version of the simulator will perform exactly the same as the demo—neither better nor worse. X-Plane 12 Recommended Requirements
CPU: Intel Core i5 8600k or Ryzen 5 3500 or better, or Apple Silicon Memory: 16-24 GB RAM or more Video Card: a DirectX 12-capable video card from NVIDIA or AMD with at least 4 GB VRAM (GeForce GTX 1070 or better, or similar from AMD) Supported Video Cards:
    NVIDIA: NVIDIA GeForce 900 or newer, driver version 510 or newer     AMD: AMD Radeon RX 500 or newer, driver version Adrenaline 22.2.1or newer Supported Operating Systems:
    OS X: OS X 10.15 or newer (e.g. Catalina, Big Sur, or Monterey)     Windows: Windows 10 or 11, 64-bit     Linux: Varies         If you want to run on Linux, you will need to try X-Plane on your distribution to see if it is compatible. We have developers using Ubuntu 20.04 LTS and newer successfully, however we don’t provide support for specific distributions.         We require the proprietary driver from NVIDIA to run X-Plane. We require the Mesa drivers, version 22.0 or newer, for AMD to run X-Plane.  
Release announcement is here: What’s new in X-Plane 12.1.2? (Beta)
 
Download the free demo of X-Plane 12 and experience all of these improvements for yourself.
_____________________
 
X-Plane 12 is purchased directly from Laminar Research for currently US$79.99 and the download file size is 85 GB
 
X-Plane 12
Price is US$79.99
_____________________
 
NEWS! by Stephen Dutton
15th August 2024
Copyright©2024: X-Plane Reviews
 
Images are courtesy of Laminar Research
 
(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 Update Review : Tecnam P2006T v9.1 by vSkyLabs
 
The Tecnam P2006T is an Italian twin-engine, high-wing light aircraft developed by Tecnam (Costruzioni Aeronautiche TECNAM S.p.A). Its history reflects the evolution of general aviation needs, particularly for an affordable, versatile, and efficient twin-engine aircraft.
 
The Tecnam P2006T project began in the early 2000s as a response to the growing demand for a cost-effective twin-engine aircraft suitable for pilot training, private use, and light commercial operations. Tecnam was already known for producing high-quality light aircraft, aimed to create a twin-engine model that would be economical to operate and maintain while still offering modern avionics and safety features. The P2006T aircraft made its maiden flight on September 13, 2007. Its performance, particularly its ability to operate efficiently with lower horsepower engines, the design impressed many in the general aviation community.
 
Initially the Tecnam P2006T was released by vSkyLabs in May 2017, it has had a few revisions, and an early aircraft conversion to X-Plane 12. But here is the full revision of the aircraft to X-Plane 12, completing the conversion process.
 
Do all general aviation aircraft have to be upright? Here the single-engined Tecnam P2004 Bravo, grew into the twin-engined P2006T, with the design change then Tecnam were also to define the "Light Sports Aircraft" into a more sleeker and modern design that moved the company into another higher category. The highly streamlined shape and modern upswept wing fences, give the aircraft a more different feel and style than say a Cessna, Piper and Beechcraft. Very euro and Italian in look as well, the Tecnam just doesn't conform to the standard GA configuration.
 


 
Costruzioni Aeronautiche Tecnam is an Italian aeronautics manufacturer that was founded in 1986. The company has two primary activities in one is that it mainly makes aircraft parts for other manufacturers, and in two it makes its own range of light aircraft. It is in the first activity of making parts is in why the Italian company's name doesn't really roll off any aviation's bluffs tongue, like say Piaggio or Augsta, but it is still a manufacturer and it is in this their latest aircraft the P2006T that was certified in 2010 that is the company's push for mainstream sales.
 
The P2006T is currently the lightest twin-engined certified aircraft available, and is a four-seat aircraft with fully retractable landing gear and has liquid-cooled Rotax engines that can run on 92 octane unleaded automotive gasoline as well as 100LL (Avgas).
 
It is unusual in that the Rotax 912S3 horizontally opposed four-cylinder geared piston engines, 73.5 kW (98.6 hp) as each of the cylinder heads are liquid-cooled and there are no cooling vanes on the cylinder barrels (a la the Volkswagen Beetle). Thus both using cooling airflow through the nacelle, and a cooling radiator is required in each cowl. Electric starters are used to start the engines on the ground, but must also be used for an inflight restart, since the highly geared engines cannot be turned by airflow alone past the stopped propeller. Thus, for FAA certification, the company was required to add in a backup battery in addition to the standard battery.
 
There are two versions available here and both are part of the package from vSkyLabs, the Original "Analog", and the "Glass" G1000 version, included also is the P2006T MkII' option which includes the Garmin G1000 Nxi package. Both versions are noted separately in the "Flight Configuration Menu".
 

 
vSkyLabs uses the modeling to do the detailing. They are a very good modeler, but not of a very high wireframe count, so you get curves not not perfectly round corners, and instead straight lines... that said the proportions are well done, as is the shape.
 

  The Tecnam looks like a composite but it is actually an all metal construction, Italian styling gives it that smooth clean look that only Italian designers can. Rivets are indented, and not pronounced to give the feel of the construction, the actual rivets though are only art work.  

 
External textures have had a revision for better PBR in the normal mapping, its not a big change, but it is noticeable in the depth of the colour and shine, in other words very XP12. Wing detail is good, but the modeling is slightly wonky in parts, again the work needed to be finer and certainly in the inner sections, but the upright wing fence is nicely done.
 

 
Glass is very good, with great scratch marks for realism, again the glass edges, certainly around the far rear window which are all a bit average in requiring a finer radius, a common theme here.
 

 
The engine nacelles are unusual in shape, bulky and bulbous, but well done, except for the air inlets, as the sawn-holed shapes are highly visible in being very clunky.
 

 
Three position flaps 0º (Flaps up), 15º (Takeoff Position) and 40º (Landing Position) are basic but well done, as you can see the construction and link mechanism that operate the flap, all the flaps are electrically powered in the P2006T.
 

  The undercarriage is a clever arrangement. The rear gear sits on stubs on the side of the fuselage, and then retracts into the body of the aircraft, the stub nose wheel just slips into the nose, and nicely done with all the wheel linkages, hydraulic pipes and brake assemblies which are all covered here and the tyres look realistic.     In a quirk with the original Tecnam from vSkyLabs, that if you opened the pilot's left side door, then the right side passenger door would open at the same time? That has now long been fixed by "Hotspots" to open either door, but only from the inside (if you know the location, it will still work by opening the door externally, but not authentically by the handle), the rear door is also very tight, as it doesn't open very wide.     ... as with all vSkyLabs aircraft, there are no Menus, tabs or static elements, the point of the aircraft is in the dynamics of flight, and they are an ongoing development with consistent updates.   Instruments and Avionics The main feature on the vSkyLabs Tecnam are the twin choices of either the "Analog" or "Glass" (Garmin G1000) instruments and avionic set ups..   It is a well laid out modern instrument panel, flying instruments right and backup and engine readouts left. You can hide the basic Yokes, but only both and not individually.     The Standard Six instruments that are centred in line of sight of the flying pilot with the Airspeed Indicator, Artificial Horizon and the Attitude Indicator on the top row and the bank/turn coordinator, Heading Dial and Vertical Speed Indicators set out directly below, there is right the two large VOR OBS dials for VOR1 above and VOR2 below. Deep below is a pitch indicator. Centre panel is dominated by both a GNS530 (top) and a GNS 430 (below) that both pop out...     ...   You get an S-Tec FiftyFive X Autopilot set centre top. Centre panel bottom is a Decker ADF dial and transponder. Lower radio unit is the standard Garmin GMA347 (revised for this update).
 
Co-Pilot's instruments are more disarranged in their layout with only the Artificial Horizon and Airspeed Indicator centre with the Attitude Indicator set far below. The rest of the instruments cover Manifold pressure, Fuel pressure PSI (both engines), Temp, Amps/Volts (engines) and both fuel tanks deep below left.. A full set of two gauges cover the engine outputs with RPM (x100), CHT, Oil Temp and pressure.
 
Lower panels cover all switchgear with Pitot, AP, Main and RH Field left and lighting right, centre is the main Avionic and bus 1&2 switches. Flap indicator is the only function on the left lower panel.
  Updates in version v9.1 include that all the cockpit textures and normals reproduced here are increased by a factor of two for crisp gauges and labels resolution. Meaning a more clearer and sharper set of instruments and gauges. The Main Annunciation panel has been completely remodeled, re-textured and re-wired to new dedicated warning lighting system. You can test it as well via the "test" button.     Gears lights and indications and the GMA347 have also been as noted re-textured, modeled and wired to new dedicated lighting systems.   G1000 Avionics The second choice of avionic package is the Garmin G1000. Basically the Laminar Research G1000 inserted here in the P2006T. Yes it is upgraded, as Laminar updated the G1000 avionics in X-Plane version v12.1.0, as it now has the better start up screens and enhancements.     The G1000 installation here changes the layout quite considerably, as the main Standard Six instruments now become the backup instruments that are now spaced centre lower panel. Airspeed Indicator, Artificial Horizon and the Attitude Indicator are all that is now required with the Fuel Pressure (both engines) set left centre. Manifold pressure, RPM (x100), CHT, Oil Temp and pressure with Amps/Volts are now down low and all squeezed together on the right hand panel, but it somehow all works fine.
 
The Decker ADF dial  is now far left lower panel and a few of the main power switches are now moved on to the centre panel lower panel where they look better, standard lighting switchgear is right lower panel.
 
The G1000 displays do pop-out and can be resized (scaled) or made into pop-out windows (computer windows). 
    Most of the switchgear/avionics is transferred to the G1000 system in radio settings/transponder, autopilot controls, engine readouts and the main primary flight instruments (PFD).
 

  I'm a little confused about the "Nxi package". Yes the screens and details have been revised to a better G1000 3d modeling and PBR textures come with a higher resolution and brightness as per the Nxi. But you don't get the Nxi coloured runways or optional quick popup screens that allow you to insert both departure and arrival airports (changes) as part of the FPL (Flightplan). New however are the four new MFD screen options... Traffic Map, Stormscope, Weather Data and TAWS B.      The Terrain Awareness and Warning System (TAWS) is an on-board system used in aircraft to prevent unintentional impacts with the ground, often referred to as Controlled Flight Into Terrain (CFIT) accidents. The TAWS B system is slightly less comprehensive than TAWS A and is typically used in smaller aircraft like the Tecnam.   Earlier releases had a significant difference between the Analog and G1000 panel facias, before a graded khaki for the analog, and brighter steel for the G1000. Here they seems closer together in the graded khaki style. The steel version looked average anyway, so it is the better choice.     The lower mini-pedestal is nicely done with twin levers for Throttle, Carburettor Heat and Propeller (feather), It is misleading in thinking that the central two yellow are the PROP levers, and the two right outer levers are the MIXTURE, but there are no mixture levers in here, so you can't shut down the engines by cutting the fuel supply? rudder pedals have an odd yellow wear on them, but look authentic.     Side Circuit Breaker (Fuse) panels are all new, retextured and look very nice. But all are still inactive?   You can select (Hotspot) a AviTab, down left door pocket. The Tablet sits on the left hand Yoke, making it very handy and easy to use (see). It has all the usual AviTab functions including Navigraph if you have a subscription (Plugin Required).     The cabin is slightly different. First again retextured and it comes with better PBR. The colours basically stay the same, but the lovely grey version seats with the rear pockets have gone, all seats in both versions are now all white, with blue "Tecnam" logos, cabin cream colour is still the same, but the striking orange seatbelts now have replaced the older darker colours.     Under seat frame detail is excellent, and you get a hard case container in the luggage bay rear. Roof mounted Fuel Selectors, Fuel Pump and the Ignition/Starter switches which are required not only to start the aircraft but to shutdown the engines as well, and the props can be strangely odd in that they don't wind down but simply electric stop mid-rotation, The fuel tank switches are up here as well.   _________________ Flying the Tecnam P2006T Starting either engine is simple, simple...  Power on, Fuel tank selected, External lights on, set Avionics....  then just select the "Ignition" switches and press the red "Starter" button, and each engine will instantly start, with no hesitation or slow winding, your quickly running at idle speed. To switch off the engines, you just flick off the same switches, it feels very modern, even electric.    
Taxiing is nice, easy to keep the centreline...  if there is too much power (forward movement), you can adjust the propeller pitch angle via the two PROPELLER levers (the blue levers), and find your best "bite" for the best taxi speed you want, it works well here...
 

 
Taxi direction is best via the rudder pedals, as the yaw joystick is a bit too sharp, and only then only small fractional movements are required.
 

 
Power up and the two Rotaxs 912S3 horizontally opposed four-cylinder geared piston engines of 75 kW (100 hp) each, pulls you off the line quickly... there is no nasty asymmetric thrust as the Tecnam P2006T has Counter-Rotating Propellers, in one propeller rotates clockwise, and the other rotates counterclockwise. This allows you to stay arrow straight right down the centreline, you would be surprised how easy it tracks here with no counter forces.
 

 
Although the Tecnam is not classified as a Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) aircraft, at 65 knts your nose is ready to lift (Flaps T.O)...
 

 
...  this is not, or feels like a geriatric 50's based GA, but a thoroughly modern machine, it handles like one, clean, fast going through the air.
 

 
Gear animation is excellent, smooth and well done here...  climb out is 1,260 feet per minute (fpm), but 1,000 fpm is the most effective climb. Both the airfoils and performance has had an X-Plane 12 update. And you feel the difference once in the air, the Tecnam reacts and flies very well.     Sounds here are very good and are already FMOD directional dynamic. It is amazing how quickly new features mature and become part of the background in a very short time. It already has the FMOD 2.0 sound package since v9.0, so that sound focused area is already updated.   Dumb me... I couldn't activate the Autopilot (Flightplan)... twice? Once in the air I set the Tecnam on a heading south to connect into the FPL, both the G530 (analog) and G1000 (glass) have PROC (Procedures) if you need to use them, but this is a simple point to point flightplan.   You have to switch on the AP, but the switches are in different places on each version...  the AP switch on the analog is down on the lower left panel, and partly hidden by the Yoke. On the G1000 it is upper left of the PFD, yes I know, right in front of me, but I couldn't find it?          I was twiddling too much with either CDI (selector) to work out where the AP switch was...  so you need to study the layout of the chosen version of the set up before flight, so you get it right first time.     Lighting The lighting is quite different between P2006T versions. On the analog it is very nice. There is the usual backlit instruments (adjustable) and switchgear, but also the added red panel lighting (adjustable).     Illumination is nice on the roof switches and the cabin light works (but dullish), reflects on the front seats.     The G1000 is quite similar. The same standard (adjustable) panel lighting, and the nice red panel lighting (also adjustable)...  but those huge 10.4 inch displays throw off a lot of brightness, thankfully you can tone the brightness down (but only with both screens together).     Honestly the red glow looks better than in these images, as being more uniform. Same overhead setup, but you wish for a better (on both) cabin light, as the rear cabin is very dark?     External lighting is pretty basic. Both a Landing and Taxi light are in the left wing, Navigation lights and some very nice Strobes.     The Côte d'Azur looks amazing in the late afternoon, you can see the higher quality of X-Plane 12 quite clearly on the internal reflections of the Tecnam, X-Plane 12 can deliver great experiences when required. It is debatable on which version to fly...  I have always favored the analog, but I am in liking the G1000 version here a lot. The updated G1000 experience has created a better, more realistic immersion.     But for a small-twin the performance of the P2006T is impressive. Maximum speed is 287 km/h; 178 mph (155 kn) with a cruise speed of 250 km/h; 155 mph (135 kn) with a range of 1,374 km (854 mi; 742 nmi). However the already stated rate of climb is 1,260 ft/min or 250 ft/min on single engine and the service ceiling is 4,300 m (14,000 ft). So the Tecnam will go fast, but climbs slowly and to only 14,000ft. Most twins in this category can climb at 1600 - 1900 ft per min to 25,000ft.   It is only 160 kilometers (or about 100 miles) between Marseille and Nice, but still a nice scenic route, keeping to 4,000ft gives you a great vista of the coastline.     Now I go off the flightplan, as I have as noted set any arrival PROC (Procedures), but I still use the LOC (APP) to line up the Tecnam to Nice Rwy 04R (110.70 NA).     I know from experience that the 04R ILS is not set correctly, it sorts of aims you between both 04L and 04R, but lined up and at 2,000ft, I can clearly see the approach.   The speed area between the full flap and 60knts it is very tight, below and your in a stall, and it is only 15knts higher as your approach speed. So you have very little room to adjust the speed to keep the aircraft airborne and getting too much lift, or then either stalling into the runway. But there feels more margin than before in this speed zone with the v9.1 update, not much though, but still enough to give you more confidence.     Barely a few k's out from the 04R threshold I drop the gear, nice....     Now lined up on 04R, I always like the side (window) view when landing at Nice (LFMN), as it never fails to deliver a great scenic view  

 
75 knts over the threshold, and throttle adjustment feels great, (I reduced the PROP a little), then just slid down slowly to the runway surface when reducing the speed below 73 knts, again there are no forces working against you with asymmetric thrust, as the power balance is perfect for keeping the aircraft directly on the centre line.... touch is around 70 knts!     Yes I would have like a bit more flare there (nose up), but there is a big definite improvement in the handing and power control than what I remembered on the earlier vSkyLab Tecnams, more range for more control... it's very nice aerodynamically.   _________________   Liveries The liveries work and are the same on both versions, there is only six, a blank, Classic Stripes, I-SMP (Military), Blue-Red, Silver Grey and Yellow.     There is also a vSkyLabs (free) livery pack of another nine liveries that you can down load from the X-Plane.Org...     They include; AERONAUTICA MILITARE, CS-EAQ, EC-LHB, EC-LUM Guardia Civil, EC-OEY OneAir (recently published), F-HCLC Air Marine, LV-GVM, N260JL Clover Park and OE-FKN Geo Survey. _________________   Summary Updated to v9.1 for X-Plane 12, the vSkyLabs Tecnam P2006T is in some ways two aircraft in one. One being the Analog instrument version, the other the Glass Garmin G1000 with twin display avionics. and overall it is an extremely nice update to this very modern four-seater General Aviation aircraft, that feels almost electric in many ways.   Modelling is great without being that pure extreme tick all the boxes look, as curves are a bit straight, rather than curved, but you have to look close or be finicky to be aware of it. Internally the textures have all been upgraded in quality and PBR to the latest standards, and the cockpit is far better with new orange seatbelts that really stand out, both doors now work as well. The G1000 (X-Plane 12.1.0) update created a far better immersion of the G1000 avionics system, including four extra modes, and that version is installed here. XP12 dynamics, performance and new airfoils and all have been revised, and the aircraft totally feels far better for the adjustments in more range in the controls. Lighting has also been revised on both versions, but the cabin overhead light is still too dull or simply missing a rear cabin light. Sounds to FMOD 2 were updated earlier. Annunciation panel has also been completely revised and system now more realistically intergrated.   There are no menus or special features, but Vskylab's doesn't always do those sort of addon's anyway, and what you do get is an interesting aircraft in two types with the original analog aircraft and the G1000 glass cockpit version that is focused on the flying handling characteristics. VR (Virtual Reality) is a big plus here if you have the gear, as vSkyLabs are well diversed in this area.   It's a harder choice now? do you stick with the older Analog flying, or go to the far better and improved G1000 version, the old hands will obviously stay with the dials, but the G1000 is now certainly a more attractive proposition. I am a big supporter of the vSkyLab philosophy and the on going value and development that they deliver. Any aircraft from vSkyLab is an investment with consistent (free) updates, and this is a great interesting aircraft if not the usual run of the mill American design of the standard 4 seater light-twin General Aviation aircraft.   Recommended! _________________
 

 
Yes! - the Tecnam P2006T v9.1 by vSkyLabs is NOW available from the X-Plane.Org Store here :
 
Tecnam P2006T
Price is US$32.95 (Currently on sale for only US26.36!)
You Save:$6.59(20%)
 
Requirements
X-Plane 12 or X-Plane 11 Windows, Mac or Linux 8 GB+ VRAM Recommended Download Size: 563 MB Current version: 9.1  (XP12 - August 1st 2024)   AviTab Plugin is required for this aircraft   Note: In order to use and enjoy VR environment in X-Plane, user hardware and system specs should meet the required specifications for OS, CPU, GPU, MB and RAM which are specified both in the given VR hardware websites and at X-Plane.com.   Aircraft download is 576.91Mb, and unpacked then installed in your X-Plane "Aircraft" folder 718Mb   Documents HOW TO INSTALL
- How to INSTALL your VSKYLABS aircraft.pdf
- How to UPDATE your VSKYLABS aircraft.pdf
INSTRUCTIONS-MANUAL-POH
- S-TEC Autopilot Manual.pdf
- VSKYLABS Tecnam P2006T POH.pdf
- VSL Tecnam P2006T Essentials.pdf
- X-Plane G430 Manual.pdf
- X-Plane G530 Manual.pdf
- X-Plane G1000 Manual.pdf  
Designed by VSKYLABS Support forum for the P2006T _____________________
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 12.1.1
Plugins: Traffic Global - JustFlight-Traffic (X-Plane.OrgStore) US$52.99 : Global SFD plugin US$30.00
Scenery or Aircraft
- LFML- Airport Marseille XP by At (X-Plane.OrgStore) - US$24.99
- LFMN - Nice Cote d'Azur v2 by JustSim (X-Plane.OrgStore) - US$18.50
___________________________
 
Aircraft Review by Stephen Dutton
14th August 2024
Copyright©2024: X-Plane Reviews
 
(Disclaimer. All images and text in this review are the work and property of X-PlaneReviews, no sharing or copy of the content is allowed without consent from the author as per copyright conditions) All Rights Reserved
 

Behind the Screen : July 2024
 
Someone noted in the forums that Laminar Research had cancelled X-Plane 10 or created an abandonware on the Simulator version? It's not true of course, X-Plane 10 can actually be purchased for a Digital Download of $29.99, in fact you can go back as far as X-Plane 8 if you have the disks or purchase them. Which is interesting, why would you?
 
There are several reasons, the guy above is obviously running old hardware (networked to 5 computers), an interesting concept, but he has also created his own age-fence, having to run old software on old hardware. Yes it costs a lot of money (I know) to keep up to date with hardware to run the latest version with the consistent "Vulkan Errors" hanging over your head if your Graphic Card is not powerful enough.
 
X-Plane has never had an vintage or obsolete list like Apple, if your old disks work, then you could fly any X-Plane version, obviously this does come with with limitations and hardware, I personally don't know if there are emulators out there to run vintage software on modern machines? myself it has been an interesting journey though computer hardware and software eras.
 
I have had Apple computers since the original Macintosh era of a 512 mb machine, and the various types through the 80' and 90's. But during my editing career created by the formation of the G3 Machintosh and Final Cut Pro (1999) or Digital Non-Linear Editing (NLE). To get a combo like that cost all of AUS$5000, as other systems were in the AUS$50,000 dollar range, it was however still highly restricted by 12 Gb hard drives, restricting you to only about 30 min of editing time, before taking another 10 hours to render, you didn't do mistakes, as a mistake cost you another 10 hours to re-render the footage...  the good ole days.
 
But my point is that during the time you built up a collection of tools (in this case related to film editing), and the actual FCP versions themselves. Personally I would still rather edit on the original timeline version of FCP than the iMovie based current FCP. So if I wanted to use all those excellent tools you had to keep the same hardware to match them, or run them. I moved up to the Power Macintosh G5, and fortunately all the G3 software ran on the G5 with upgrades to OSX 10. But after that you slipped down the order in losing precious software tools with every new Mac release, starting with "Tiger 10.4", but then all became totally obsolete with "Leopard 10.5". If I wanted my perfect hardware system with all my tools, then the G5 soldiered on, and and on for over a decade and a half. Luckily you could later add on (tons) extra storage space, but the performance (rendering) was stuck in a timewarp (but the G5 was far faster than the G3), but if you were only editing a 60min video, it was always acceptable. My 24" 2009 aluminum enclosure iMac ran both FCP and my first X-Plane (XP9), and was only reluctantly retired to go Windows.
X-Plane demands a lot of processing power was the reason, but updating Mac's is not done at all either. But one story was interesting. In the early release of SSD's (Solid State Drive) I put one in my 2009 iMac, transforming the machine to survive another four years with the expanded speed, but graphic cards were off the table unlike the fortunes and the wide open options of Windows. I'm looking at that 2009 iMac now, doing another job of storing music and being a broadcast hub, yes FCP still works (just), but all the support video equipment is now either broken or gone. 
 
We all have our computer stories. But the rule is you are trapped with a duel upgrade timeline. The hardware OS has to exactly match the software version you are running, if either are out of sync then you are struggling with a lopsided or even non-working system. That aspect can be expensive, or you are stuck like the guy above in a timewarp, with nowhere to go but to your wallet.
 
The X-Plane I am flying now is nothing like the version I built up in the early days, and I worked extremely hard on building up all those various elements to create a realistic on-line world, but in reality (even though a lot of the old (XP10) scenery does actually work). What I fly and use in this current simulator is world's away from the flying a decade ago, however I did get a taste of the old days twice recently.
 
Doing the excellent South Pacific Tahiti scenery, I found there was no ATR 72-500, the aircraft run by Air Tahiti to use in part of the review. The aircraft is the ATR72-500 v1.2 Riviere 1.2.0 updated by henkfix, and this was the replacement for the review.
 
The shock was how dated the ATR72 was. It is a standard PlaneMaker version, and it came with all the foibles and flaws of PlaneMaker. It was certainly a jump back in time. And the dawning realisation of the issues and problems I had encountered a decade ago, was not actually me or the way I flew...   I then realised, that the way that PlaneMaker interprets the X-Plane dynamics, honestly is actually not that good. I found very quickly the ATR was hard to start, even in this crude simplistic environment, then the old issue of the Autopilot not locking into the route in the FMC (FMS)... it all came back, and the horror of it all. Like I said, I thought it was (at the time) my own inexperience that was why I couldn't intergrate or fly the ATR well. But it's not, it's the original PlaneMaker design, notable to me was the fact that the underlying system has not actually changed at all.
 
Modern X-Plane 12 aircraft use Plugins (mostly SASL) to get around and hide these now very crude backend systems, but do you ever remember an update specifically relating to PlaneMaker, a little touch here and changes there obviously to accept the newer X-Plane version, but not much else is going on back here. 
 
The second aircraft was Peter's A380-800. Again an aircraft that originally was created back in the same X-Plane 10 era. Notably Peter Hagar had updated areas to meet the X-Plane 12 era...  but the core elements were still there, one was banks (rolls). When the A380 came to a waypoint, the aircraft would do a hard sharp 45º turn to the next heading, very PlaneMaker and not at all very realistic, so it dated the design. Plus all the sky holes in the modeling, this is again a limitation of PlaneMaker not the developer, yes even modern X-Plane aircraft can get sky holes, but here it was extremely noticeable as they were everywhere, and you even had the sky showing on (through) the OHP. The old style liveries with separate .png daytime and .lit night layers that were so hard to edit and created fusions of both files on the aircraft in the intermediate point as they clashed at dusk, editing them (fixing) sent me again back to a time now forgotten, but I had spent many an hour doing the same photoshop fixes back then, it was a very big memory trip back in time to that earlier era, thankfully the skills of the time past remained effective.
 
Ten years ago this was the X-Plane norm, so you just excepted it as part of the Simulator and flying in X-Plane. It was the surprise now on how all very crude it was, and is. The ATR was a pain to fly, I worked it and actually did complete the flight from Bora Bora to Papeete, a small bonus on the other side of the PlaneMaker coin is that a decade old aircraft would still fly in it's basic form, but you saw the yawning gap. Most would say, well what do you expect after a decade or so of Simulation advancement? and I accept that argument.   
 
So the combination of advancement ran though my flying over the last few months. The split between the old and to be discarded, and the new. Again the revolution of file processed in that in between time. I have hard drives full of past aircraft and scenery, now dated and basically unwanted. And actually my X-Plane aircraft fleet, even the scenery folder is far smaller than those earlier times.
 
The difference is the quality of the aircraft and scenery, in numbers it is far fewer than then, but they wholly deliver a far more intimate and quality experience...  you then in the past experimented everything, but are now far more discerning on what you use and fly in the Simulator.
 
Yes certainly the change between X-Plane versions can create a lot of obsolete (abandonware) aircraft, even scenery, and god bless Carenado, but you rebuild it all in a different way and in a different environment.
 
So there are a lot of things you like to hold on to that worked so well for you in the past, like my FCP system, but in time it did become that word "Vintage", as did the computers that ran the software, and now it is all just "Obsolete". And yet I don't like the Apple turnover of perfectly good tools being discarded just to add in more functions after only a few years, or to maybe only sell you a new iPhone for only profits. If the iPhone still works then why should you have to throw it away, even if Apple says no, or not usable anymore, it's all a bit of a tech waste, but 3G anybody.
 
But overall there is not much difference between the two platforms, X-Plane and Apple...  Windows users however can probably run Microsoft FlightSim ver 2.0, and quite happily...  See you all next month.
 
Stephen Dutton
5th August 2024
Copyright©2024 X-Plane Reviews
 

Scenery Review - HECA Cairo International, Egypt XP12 by TaiModels
 
I have a list! and I have held that list for over the decade or so that I have being flying in the X-Plane Simulator and doing reviews... I'm very happy to say that over the corresponding years, a lot of my intended destinations have been covered or have been filled in for me from that list to fulfill my ambitions of traveling to the far, far corners of the X-Plane planet. I admit, a lot of the received scenery has broadened my horizons and giving me much pleasure, the list was part of my motto "Building my X-Plane world one airport at a time"...  but back to that list.
 
As the decade wore on, as noted the list got shorter...  but one airport scenery absolutely and stubbornly refused to fill in, or to give me a strategic central hub for a network that covers the Middle-East and Africa, that Airport was HECA or Cairo International, in Eygpt.
 
Why? drove me nuts, again why was there no decent quality HECA in X-Plane? and so I waited and waited, and to a point I actually gave up on the idea a few years ago. Yes there was a few freeware HECA's developed, but in reality they were really all quite crappy, not worth the flight to Eygpt to experience them, so for all my time in the X-Plane Simulator, I have never visited Cairo...  never been there.
 
So when TaiModels released their HECA Cairo International for the other mob (MSFS2020), I was quite jealous, now they had a HECA and X-Plane didn't... I looked at the pretty video forlornly, I was not a happy bunny.... but, but, if TaiModel's had done a MFSF version, then just, just maybe then they would do an X-Plane 12 version, and yes they now have done that, and released HECA Cairo International for X-Plane 12!
 
The X-Plane Simulator now finally has a Cairo International African destination to choose from.
 
First impressions show to a point why developers have shunned HECA, it is a sprawling disconnected and complex layout, surrounded by the high density districts of Masr El Gedida and El Nozha in the Eastern Area. One side of the airport is in the Nile Valley, the other is in the Eastern Desert.
 

 
During World War II, the United States Army Air Forces (USAAF) built John Payne Field Air Force Base to serve the Allied Forces, rather than take over the existing Almaza Airport located 5 kilometres (3.1 mi) away. Payne Field was a major Air Transport Command air cargo and passenger hub, connecting westwards through Benghazi Airport (during the war known as Soluch Airfield) to Algiers airport on the North African route to Dakar Airport, in French West Africa.
 
When American forces left the base at the end of the war, the Civil Aviation Authority took over the facility and began using it for international civil aviation. In 1963, Cairo International Airport replaced the old Heliopolis Airport, which had been located at the Hike-Step area in the east of Cairo.
 
In reality HECA can currently be divided between the old Terminal 1 in the north and the newer Terminal 2 and 3 complex in the South.
 

 
Cairo International Airport
مطار القاهرة الدولي
Maṭār El Qāhira El Dawli
IATA: CAI - ICAO: HECA

05L/23R - 3,300m (10,830ft) Asphalt
05C/23C - 4,000m (13,120ft) Asphalt
05R/23L - 4,000m (13,123ft) Asphalt
Elevation AMSL382 ft / 116 m
 

 
Terminal 1 is the oldest terminal currently in operation, having been inaugurated on 18 March 1963 by President Gamal Abdel Nasser. Over the years, the terminal witnessed several expansion projects; a second hall was constructed between 1977–79 and a third one was completed in 1980. In the early 2000s, work commenced on the renovation of the ground floor, along with the addition of an expanded departure hall containing a mezzanine floor, thereby allowing more natural light into the terminal, the old exterior was also recladded. All phases of the project were completed by the end of 2003.   I love old terminals, and was expecting a part of the "Old" Cairo Airport to part of the scenery, but as noted the area has been since renovated, not the usual being torn down and rebuilt, but actually recladding the old building with a modern facade. In the TaiModels version it comes across a bit like a modern hospital, clean, plainly cladded and even a bit emptyish.   Front and centre there is a globe that represents Cairo’s strategic location as a hub connecting Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and Asia.This iconic structure is not only a landmark for the airport, but also a symbol of Egypt’s historical and contemporary significance in global travel and trade.    
 
The Terminal 1 arrival hall facade was very significant in design, it's still sort of still there in shape, but now also newly recovered and clad externally. It looks good, but I miss the old style design buried under there.
 

 
TaiModels does interiors, here it is only the front T1 departure lounge, which is dominated by a huge Egyptian boat which are deeply embedded in Egyptian mythology.
 

 
There are no concourses or satellite terminals here, just three stand areas with the parking range of 1 to 30, so you have a bit of the old Cairo feel here in front of the Terminal, which is enhanced by the huge old lighting towers from the 60's
 

 
Each "Hall" at Terminal does a different operation. Hall 1 (the main one) is the Departure Hall, Hall 2 is an Arrival Hall, Hall 3 is a Domestic Flight terminal and Hall 4 is a VIP reception building. Hall 2 is well modeled internally, with the arrival baggage claim areas, and the matrix roof structure is skillfully done.
 

 
This VIP separate building is reserved for VIPs, dignitaries and special services, and it offers a more private and luxurious experience, with dedicated check-in, security, and lounge facilities.
 

 
Behind landside there are also more eminent structures from the old days, the significant Obelisk is a well-known landmark that travelers often notice when arriving at or departing from the CAl airport. Also the large mosque which is really well done.
 

 
The central Landside area is well filled in, but...   around Terminal 1 it all feels a bit empty. The objects are mostly just placed on the Lo-Res textures and then have had palm trees added. Airside is wide and open, and again the large areas feels sterile. There are a few (very few) animated service vehicles, and little clutters of Cargo Containers, but mostly it is all just this open space around a busy area? Both areas needed (needs) far more detailed clutter and fill to be authentic, and to create that buzzy feel of this important area historic area...  TaiModels have done this impressive work in the past (Sydney YSSY), but it is lacking here.
 

 
Linking the "Old" to the "New" in Terminal areas is an animated Cairo Airport Automated People Mover, which is the first of its kind in the Middle East, it is totally driverless on a route length of 1857 meters. The Capacity of the train is 2000 Passengers per hour per direction. The APM is modeled and animated here between T1 and T3.
 

 

 
Terminal 2 was inaugurated in 1986 with 7 boarding gates (image above). It then primarily served European, Gulf and East Asian airlines. The terminal was closed in April 2010 for complete and extensive renovations starting in 2012 and lasting 36 months. The architecture of the building limited the opportunities for further expansion, which necessitated the entire building to be closed for major structural overhaul at an estimated cost of approximately $400 million,
 
The renovated terminal 3 is operating jointly now with the newer Terminal 2 as one integrated terminal via an air bridge, thus, reinforcing the role of Cairo International Airport as a major regional hub.
 

 
The detail of T2 is exceptionally good by TaiModels, I will admit, this sort of lattice work is their major strength, and it is very complex and well done in the arrival area, certainly notable is the fine roof. Internally T2 is very detailed, if a bit human empty, but certainly worthy of a look around.
 

 
Although the arrival entrance is in one section, you access the gates via another terminal and concourse opposite (via an underground walkway). Internally it is all very well detailed with the main hall and the concourses are all shown, there is a very nice Arabic feel to this side of the terminal....
 

 
E1 to E14 covers 12 airbridges and connecting towers, which are very similar to the arrangements at German (Frankfurt/Munich) airports
 

 
Stand E11 can cater an Airbus A380/B748 (Code F) with three airbridges provided...    All airbridges are very well designed here and are all SAM (Scenery Animation Manager) powered. But as we know SAM has been abandoned by it's developers. You can use OpenSAM as a replacement, its not perfect, but it does work.
 

 
The ramp towers are impressive, as is the excellent facade motif and glass panel detail.
 

 

 
Terminal 3 - given the projected growth, and the limited ability to expand Terminal 2, the Egyptian Ministry of Civil Aviation began construction of Terminal 3 in 2004. The terminal was officially inaugurated on 18 December 2008 and opened for commercial operations on 27 April 2009. The facility is twice as large as the current two terminal buildings combined, with the capacity to handle 11 million passengers annually (6 million international and 5 million domestic) once the first phase is completed. It is adjacent to Terminal 2, and the two terminals are initially connected by a bridge.
 

 
The feel and design of Terminal 3 is very different, with a more coloured earthy Stucco textured facade as part of the usual glass and steel, the arrival entrance however is a massive matrix of support beams, stupendously done here by TaiModels, and must have taken ages to do all this complex detail. Designed by Dar Al-Handasah (Shair and Partners), this structural arrival zone is certainly the highlight of the HECA scenery.
 

 
The detail continues internally...  with an arrivals hall fully decorated and detailed in an Eygptian feel and theme, including centre the prominent statue of the ancient Egyptian deity Horus. 
 

 
Behind up a level, the check-in areas are also well defined with rows and rows of check-in desks, mostly Eithad branded.
 

 
Connecting rear to the two concourses is a large atrium, here also it has been modeled, but not to the extent of the arrivals area...
 

 
Externally the graphic facade has porthole windows, with 3d graphics for ultimate realism. the walkway bridges are also excellent with both the textured Stucco and the steel/glass walkways, it is really well conceived.
 

 
The Stucco motif design continues into both Concourses A and B, with Gates A1 to A23 and Gates B1 to B24 covering both arms. The (animated SAM) airbridge detail is excellent, and all the bridges being Commercial International Bank (CIB) branded for authenticity 
 

 
In the mix there are two more Class F A380 gates on each pier in G5 and F5, and overall the gate detail is very good, but not with much detailed ground clutter. Internally the concourses are also detailed, all with some great Eygptian advertising detail.
 

 
With its hub at the airport centered on T3, EgyptAir's operations were overhauled with the full transfer of its operations (international and domestic) into the new terminal between 27 April and 15 June 2009. To implement the Star Alliance "Move Under One Roof" concept, all Alliance members serving the airport were relocated to the terminal by the first of August 2009.
 
Seasonal Flights Terminal  - on 20 September 2011, Prime Minister Sharaf inaugurated the new Seasonal Flights Terminal (ST), located west of Terminal 3. During the start-up phase EgyptAir operates its daily flight to Medina from the new Terminal. All Hajj traffic of EgyptAir will move to the ST while Saudia's Hajj flights will still operate from Terminal 1.
 
The ST terminal has an annual capacity of 3.2 million passengers with 27 check-in counters and 7 gates with a common gate and single security concept, the first in Cairo. It is designed to handle 1,200 passengers per hour. Passengers will be bussed to remote aircraft stands around Terminal 3. Its purpose is to ease operational strains on the existing terminals during pilgrim seasons.
 

 
Terminal 4 ST is done in the same earthy Stucco style as T3, so it blends in well with the area, there is a very nice blast fence on the apron that covers stands 305 to 312. There is also a nice clutter area of ramp service vehicles and equipment set between The ST and Terminal 3 areas, one of the few in the scenery.
 

 
Cairo Cargo City is the primary cargo facility at Cairo Airport, equipped with state-of-the-art technology and infrastructure. It includes multiple terminals operated by different entities, such as EgyptAir Cargo, which is the cargo division of EgyptAir. The cargo facility is set east, mid-way between the old and new terminal areas. Note the Old (right) and new (left) control towers
 

 
HECA processes about 300,000 to 400,000 tons of cargo annually. This figure includes both international and domestic cargo, with a mix of freight carried by dedicated cargo flights. Most freight is perishables (fruits, vegetables, and flowers), pharmaceuticals, textiles, machinery, and electronics. The Cargo facility is good, but in areas it feels a little empty (for a busy cargo hub) that needed a bit more (a lot more) clutter detailing.
 

 
CAI has actually three control towers. The Main Control Tower (the new one). Approach and Departure Control (the old one) and the original tower on top of Terminal 1 to cover the northeast ramps.
 

 
The main control tower at Cairo International Airport is approximately 56 meters (183 feet) tall. It was built and officially opened in 2009, and is part of the newer extensive development and modernisation efforts at HECA, which included the construction of Terminal 3. It's main job is to oversee these Terminal 2 and 3 zones plus the  runways 05C/23C and 05R/23L. The design is very Arabic, tall and slim, and includes a modeled control room interior at the top with an animated radar on the roof.
 

 
There is Integrated Communication, as the three towers are linked together by a sophisticated communication network that allows the controllers to coordinate their activities seamlessly. The central tower (original) is noted as the "Supplementary Tower" and used for Arrival and Departure, and the (North/East Tower) the "Secondary Control Tower" over the northeast aprons and runway 05L/23R. There is a lot of excellent detail on the Sec Tower, with mobile cell and standard aerials, and again an animated rotating radar.
 

 
Centre of the landside area is the main CAI radar that has a radius of about 60-80 nautical miles around the airport. Nicely well modeled here, and with again the large red animated receiver that can be seen from any part of the airport.
 

 
Infrastructure is very good, with the EygptAir's main headquarters being situated here.
 

 
The ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization ) have a regional office here and the building is represented, also there is the "Aero Sport Halls”, refers to sports and recreational facilities managed by EgyptAir. These facilities are part of the EgyptAir Sporting Club for employees and their families.
 

 
There is a Le Méridien Cairo Hotel, which is directly connected to T3...
 

 
... and the Le Passage Cairo and Novotel Cairo Airport hotels, both here are very basic in 3d and wrap textures. Note, the old Operations centre under the Sup tower is now used as the EgyptAir Training Academy, as seen far left here.
 

 
As you can see here in the images, the modeling has been placed on the textures, but little ground detail was added to fill or clutter the visual aspect, there are trees and fauna, but still to little of that aspect.
 
EygptAir Maintenance. Being the main hub for Eygpt's premier airline. EygptAir has had a Dedicated Maintenance Division at CAI since the 1970s, EgyptAir had to formally established its maintenance and engineering division as a separate entity within the company to service its increasingly complex fleet.
 
Here the complex maintenance base is set around both sides of taxiway J, with the earlier base on the western central section, and the newer section to the east. The oldest drive-through hangar is still here, and glorious it is in EygptAir's logos of Horus, the ancient Egyptian sky god. Horus is traditionally represented as a falcon in the design.
 

 
There are a few more large maintenance hangers on the eastern side, these designs are more modern and have nice arabic motifs set in the doors, mostly though this area is just collections of various buildings and other facilities with a few hangars thrown in.
 

 
Both Terminal area entrances are good, with nice advertising on the T1 approach and a sign arch on the T2/T3 entrance.
 

 
Cairo Pyramids. By now your asking if the famous Eygptian Pyramids of Giza, dated from 2560 BCE are part of the TaiModels scenery? well they are not sadly, but that doesn't say you should not have them as part of the experience....  there is a freeware download by Chris Noe "Egyptian Pyramids & the Sphinx on the Giza plateau", and they are quite recent in design. The track is west of HECA, heading to the Nile Valley and Cairo City.
 

 
The autogen works for you in creating the mass of the Cairo urban sprawl, it looks almost realistic in arrivals from the west. TaiModels have noted in refining the autogen around HECA, to create that urban feel around the airport, and that aspect it is quite successful here.
 

 
Ground Textures. Outwardly the textures look a little flat, but up close (in say taxi mode) they are not that bad, the bright sunlight here can wash out the detail as well. So they are quite knobbly and grooved with detail, with a fair bit of light grunge on closer inspection. Noticeable however though are the hard straight edges that are not at all realistic?
 

 
If you are willing to explore and look at the detail, there is a lot of nice faded and worn areas and lineage in here...  PBR reflective (wet) active textures and burnt-in ambient occlusion are active as the scenery is X-Plane 12 only, but not really a main feature element in Egypt, so you will get no snow or ice here, no flowers either, as being out in the desert the areas can look a a little bland to the eye, as X-Plane never did desert scenarios very well.
 

 
Lighting. HEAC Cairo in the dusk is actually very nice...   all runways are ICAO standard illumination quality in X-Plane 12
 

 
Again Terminal 1 feels like a hospital in the dark, but the overall apron lighting is an unusual yellowly-greenish tinge...  which looks very good, are and very say "old Eygptian", the lighting towers are again a highlight.
 

 
The arrival area of T1 is excellent, as are all the Halls here, and the EygptAir Headquarters stands out as well.
 

 
Internally inside the Halls it is nicely brightly lit, very rare, and it works well.
 

 
The CAI Control Tower is visible from all the approaches, in a shimmy blue feature, as it overlooks the T2 and T3 complexes.
 

 
A highlight is the awning structure at the T2 arrivals area, brilliantly done, looks amazing...  the internally T2 is not as brightly lit as T1, so feels a little duller.
 

 
Around the T2 concourses it again has that yellowish tinge lighting, in most bays the lighting is good, but the towers are a bit dull as is the lighting around the parking areas that need a bit more lighting detail to bring it alive...  where it is done, mostly via the floor detail, it looks very good.
 

 
You are expecting T3 to be well done with it's lighting, and your not disappointed here...
 

 
Internally the lighting is the same brightness as T1, so it works well in all areas from the external view and from the inside.
 

 
The Le Méridien Cairo Hotel looks nicer at night, with the nicely lit connecting covered walkway to T3. Mid apron storage areas are also nicely lit.
 

 
Navigation lighting is good, clear, and abundant, but with no ground reflections. At least there is some fade in the signs for realism.
 

 
Welcome to Egypt!
 

 
Summary
This Cairo International Airport HECA by TaiModels is the very first payware scenery for the X-Plane Simulator...  "Why did we have to wait so long?".
 
To a point you can see why nobody wanted to develop the most important hub in Africa/Middle East. As CAI is a sprawling disconnected area full of hundreds of objects. It has three different styles of terminals and Halls, three control towers, headquarters of EgyptAir and big Cargo and Maintenance facilities. Originally a WW2 United States Army Air Forces (USAAF) base, CAI it has been a commercial airport since 1963.
 
TalModels modeling and design is excellent, certainly with the very complex Terminal 2 and T3...  Terminal 1 however which was recladded and not rebuilt, so here it comes across a bit too plain and clean, more a hospital than a terminal...  however all the four Halls and VIP terminal have been included, including also the entrance Obelisk and mosque. All three control towers are well done, with internal detail and animated radars, as there is highly internal detail in every terminal building. Ground textures are good and have active PBR reflections, burnt-in ambient occlusion. But the straight hard side lines against the bland desert are very visible. Night lighting is overall very good, but apron areas and bays need a bit more detailed side lighting, internally though the lighting is bright and the T2 and T2 arrival areas are spectacular highlights. This scenery is X-Plane 12 only
 
The question here though is the TaiModels approach, as we have seen before. Central important areas like the Terminals and basics are very highly developed, the internal areas here especially so. But outside and boundary features are always lacking. At CAI the aprons and ramps feel very empty and desolate, some areas are not even finished with the lack of clutter and detail.And there is not even provided the expected Egyptian Pyramids to compliment the scenery, small things, but important. The note is this internal detailing is all very nice, but it is on the ramps and at the terminal bays is where we mostly interact with airport scenery, and it is here in those areas that I find it all a bit lacking. Overall though it is a great Cairo Airport to use and enjoy.... and CAI has finally arrived on X-Plane.
__________________________
 

 
The HECA Cairo International, Egypt XP12 by Taimodels is NOW available! from the X-Plane.Org Store
 
HECA Cairo International, Egypt
Priced at US$27.49
 
Requirements
X-Plane 12  (not for XP11) Windows, Mac or Linux 8 GB+ VRAM Recommended Download Size: 2 GB Current version : 1.0 Released July 29 2024   Installation
Installation of HECA Cairo International, Egypt is done via download of 1.87 Gb...
 
There is just one folder to install
HECA_Cairo_Iternational_Airport_Taimodels With a total installation size of 3.31Gb.
 
SAM Plugin - Scenery Animation Manager - Suite 3.0 or higher is required for this scenery, or use OpenSAM as a replacement
  There are no Documents provided by TaiModels
____________________________
 
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 12.07r1 (This is a Release Candidate review).
Plugins: Traffic Global - JustFlight-Traffic (X-Plane.OrgStore) US$52.99 : Global SFD plugin US$30.00
Scenery or Aircraft
-Egyptian Pyramids & the Sphinx on the Giza plateau by Chris Noe -Free-
____________________________
 
Scenery Review by Stephen Dutton
4th August 2024
Copyright©2024: X-Plane Reviews
 
(Disclaimer. All images and text in this review are the work and property of X-PlaneReviews, no sharing or copy of the content is allowed without consent from the author as per copyright conditions) All Rights Reserved
 

 

Behind the Screen : July 2024
 
Someone noted in the forums that Laminar Research had cancelled X-Plane 10 or created an abandonware on the Simulator version? It's not true of course, X-Plane 10 can actually be purchased for a Digital Download of $29.99, in fact you can go back as far as X-Plane 8 if you have the disks or purchase them. Which is interesting, why would you?
 
There are several reasons, the guy above is obviously running old hardware (networked to 5 computers), an interesting concept, but he has also created his own age-fence, having to run old software on old hardware. Yes it costs a lot of money (I know) to keep up to date with hardware to run the latest version with the consistent "Vulkan Errors" hanging over your head if your Graphic Card is not powerful enough.
 
X-Plane has never had an vintage or obsolete list like Apple, if your old disks work, then you could fly any X-Plane version, obviously this does come with with limitations and hardware, I personally don't know if there are emulators out there to run vintage software on modern machines? myself it has been an interesting journey though computer hardware and software eras.
 
I have had Apple computers since the original Macintosh era of a 512 mb machine, and the various types through the 80' and 90's. But during my editing career created by the formation of the G3 Machintosh and Final Cut Pro (1999) or Digital Non-Linear Editing (NLE). To get a combo like that cost all of AUS$5000, as other systems were in the AUS$50,000 dollar range, it was however still highly restricted by 12 Gb hard drives, restricting you to only about 30 min of editing time, before taking another 10 hours to render, you didn't do mistakes, as a mistake cost you another 10 hours to re-render the footage...  the good ole days.
 
But my point is that during the time you built up a collection of tools (in this case related to film editing), and the actual FCP versions themselves. Personally I would still rather edit on the original timeline version of FCP than the iMovie based current FCP. So if I wanted to use all those excellent tools you had to keep the same hardware to match them, or run them. I moved up to the Power Macintosh G5, and fortunately all the G3 software ran on the G5 with upgrades to OSX 10. But after that you slipped down the order in losing precious software tools with every new Mac release, starting with "Tiger 10.4", but then all became totally obsolete with "Leopard 10.5". If I wanted my perfect hardware system with all my tools, then the G5 soldiered on, and and on for over a decade and a half. Luckily you could later add on (tons) extra storage space, but the performance (rendering) was stuck in a timewarp (but the G5 was far faster than the G3), but if you were only editing a 60min video, it was always acceptable. My 24" 2009 aluminum enclosure iMac ran both FCP and my first X-Plane (XP9), and was only reluctantly retired to go Windows.
X-Plane demands a lot of processing power was the reason, but updating Mac's is not done at all either. But one story was interesting. In the early release of SSD's (Solid State Drive) I put one in my 2009 iMac, transforming the machine to survive another four years with the expanded speed, but graphic cards were off the table unlike the fortunes and the wide open options of Windows. I'm looking at that 2009 iMac now, doing another job of storing music and being a broadcast hub, yes FCP still works (just), but all the support video equipment is now either broken or gone. 
 
We all have our computer stories. But the rule is you are trapped with a duel upgrade timeline. The hardware OS has to exactly match the software version you are running, if either are out of sync then you are struggling with a lopsided or even non-working system. That aspect can be expensive, or you are stuck like the guy above in a timewarp, with nowhere to go but to your wallet.
 
The X-Plane I am flying now is nothing like the version I built up in the early days, and I worked extremely hard on building up all those various elements to create a realistic on-line world, but in reality (even though a lot of the old (XP10) scenery does actually work). What I fly and use in this current simulator is world's away from the flying a decade ago, however I did get a taste of the old days twice recently.
 
Doing the excellent South Pacific Tahiti scenery, I found there was no ATR 72-500, the aircraft run by Air Tahiti to use in part of the review. The aircraft is the ATR72-500 v1.2 Riviere 1.2.0 updated by henkfix, and this was the replacement for the review.
 
The shock was how dated the ATR72 was. It is a standard PlaneMaker version, and it came with all the foibles and flaws of PlaneMaker. It was certainly a jump back in time. And the dawning realisation of the issues and problems I had encountered a decade ago, was not actually me or the way I flew...   I then realised, that the way that PlaneMaker interprets the X-Plane dynamics, honestly is actually not that good. I found very quickly the ATR was hard to start, even in this crude simplistic environment, then the old issue of the Autopilot not locking into the route in the FMC (FMS)... it all came back, and the horror of it all. Like I said, I thought it was (at the time) my own inexperience that was why I couldn't intergrate or fly the ATR well. But it's not, it's the original PlaneMaker design, notable to me was the fact that the underlying system has not actually changed at all.
 
Modern X-Plane 12 aircraft use Plugins (mostly SASL) to get around and hide these now very crude backend systems, but do you ever remember an update specifically relating to PlaneMaker, a little touch here and changes there obviously to accept the newer X-Plane version, but not much else is going on back here. 
 
The second aircraft was Peter's A380-800. Again an aircraft that originally was created back in the same X-Plane 10 era. Notably Peter Hagar had updated areas to meet the X-Plane 12 era...  but the core elements were still there, one was banks (rolls). When the A380 came to a waypoint, the aircraft would do a hard sharp 45º turn to the next heading, very PlaneMaker and not at all very realistic, so it dated the design. Plus all the sky holes in the modeling, this is again a limitation of PlaneMaker not the developer, yes even modern X-Plane aircraft can get sky holes, but here it was extremely noticeable as they were everywhere, and you even had the sky showing on (through) the OHP. The old style liveries with separate .png daytime and .lit night layers that were so hard to edit and created fusions of both files on the aircraft in the intermediate point as they clashed at dusk, editing them (fixing) sent me again back to a time now forgotten, but I had spent many an hour doing the same photoshop fixes back then, it was a very big memory trip back in time to that earlier era, thankfully the skills of the time past remained effective.
 
Ten years ago this was the X-Plane norm, so you just excepted it as part of the Simulator and flying in X-Plane. It was the surprise now on how all very crude it was, and is. The ATR was a pain to fly, I worked it and actually did complete the flight from Bora Bora to Papeete, a small bonus on the other side of the PlaneMaker coin is that a decade old aircraft would still fly in it's basic form, but you saw the yawning gap. Most would say, well what do you expect after a decade or so of Simulation advancement? and I accept that argument.   
 
So the combination of advancement ran though my flying over the last few months. The split between the old and to be discarded, and the new. Again the revolution of file processed in that in between time. I have hard drives full of past aircraft and scenery, now dated and basically unwanted. And actually my X-Plane aircraft fleet, even the scenery folder is far smaller than those earlier times.
 
The difference is the quality of the aircraft and scenery, in numbers it is far fewer than then, but they wholly deliver a far more intimate and quality experience...  you then in the past experimented everything, but are now far more discerning on what you use and fly in the Simulator.
 
Yes certainly the change between X-Plane versions can create a lot of obsolete (abandonware) aircraft, even scenery, and god bless Carenado, but you rebuild it all in a different way and in a different environment.
 
So there are a lot of things you like to hold on to that worked so well for you in the past, like my FCP system, but in time it did become that word "Vintage", as did the computers that ran the software, and now it is all just "Obsolete". And yet I don't like the Apple turnover of perfectly good tools being discarded just to add in more functions after only a few years, or to maybe only sell you a new iPhone for only profits. If the iPhone still works then why should you have to throw it away, even if Apple says no, or not usable anymore, it's all a bit of a tech waste, but 3G anybody.
 
But overall there is not much difference between the two platforms, X-Plane and Apple...  Windows users however can probably run Microsoft FlightSim ver 2.0, and quite happily...  See you all next month.
 
Stephen Dutton
5th August 2024
Copyright©2024 X-Plane Reviews
 

Scenery Review - HECA Cairo International, Egypt XP12 by TaiModels
 
I have a list! and I have held that list for over the decade or so that I have being flying in the X-Plane Simulator and doing reviews... I'm very happy to say that over the corresponding years, a lot of my intended destinations have been covered or have been filled in for me from that list to fulfill my ambitions of traveling to the far, far corners of the X-Plane planet. I admit, a lot of the received scenery has broadened my horizons and giving me much pleasure, the list was part of my motto "Building my X-Plane world one airport at a time"...  but back to that list.
 
As the decade wore on, as noted the list got shorter...  but one airport scenery absolutely and stubbornly refused to fill in, or to give me a strategic central hub for a network that covers the Middle-East and Africa, that Airport was HECA or Cairo International, in Eygpt.
 
Why? drove me nuts, again why was there no decent quality HECA in X-Plane? and so I waited and waited, and to a point I actually gave up on the idea a few years ago. Yes there was a few freeware HECA's developed, but in reality they were really all quite crappy, not worth the flight to Eygpt to experience them, so for all my time in the X-Plane Simulator, I have never visited Cairo...  never been there.
 
So when TaiModels released their HECA Cairo International for the other mob (MSFS2020), I was quite jealous, now they had a HECA and X-Plane didn't... I looked at the pretty video forlornly, I was not a happy bunny.... but, but, if TaiModel's had done a MFSF version, then just, just maybe then they would do an X-Plane 12 version, and yes they now have done that, and released HECA Cairo International for X-Plane 12!
 
The X-Plane Simulator now finally has a Cairo International African destination to choose from.
 
First impressions show to a point why developers have shunned HECA, it is a sprawling disconnected and complex layout, surrounded by the high density districts of Masr El Gedida and El Nozha in the Eastern Area. One side of the airport is in the Nile Valley, the other is in the Eastern Desert.
 

 
During World War II, the United States Army Air Forces (USAAF) built John Payne Field Air Force Base to serve the Allied Forces, rather than take over the existing Almaza Airport located 5 kilometres (3.1 mi) away. Payne Field was a major Air Transport Command air cargo and passenger hub, connecting westwards through Benghazi Airport (during the war known as Soluch Airfield) to Algiers airport on the North African route to Dakar Airport, in French West Africa.
 
When American forces left the base at the end of the war, the Civil Aviation Authority took over the facility and began using it for international civil aviation. In 1963, Cairo International Airport replaced the old Heliopolis Airport, which had been located at the Hike-Step area in the east of Cairo.
 
In reality HECA can currently be divided between the old Terminal 1 in the north and the newer Terminal 2 and 3 complex in the South.
 

 
Cairo International Airport
مطار القاهرة الدولي
Maṭār El Qāhira El Dawli
IATA: CAI - ICAO: HECA

05L/23R - 3,300m (10,830ft) Asphalt
05C/23C - 4,000m (13,120ft) Asphalt
05R/23L - 4,000m (13,123ft) Asphalt
Elevation AMSL382 ft / 116 m
 

 
Terminal 1 is the oldest terminal currently in operation, having been inaugurated on 18 March 1963 by President Gamal Abdel Nasser. Over the years, the terminal witnessed several expansion projects; a second hall was constructed between 1977–79 and a third one was completed in 1980. In the early 2000s, work commenced on the renovation of the ground floor, along with the addition of an expanded departure hall containing a mezzanine floor, thereby allowing more natural light into the terminal, the old exterior was also recladded. All phases of the project were completed by the end of 2003.   I love old terminals, and was expecting a part of the "Old" Cairo Airport to part of the scenery, but as noted the area has been since renovated, not the usual being torn down and rebuilt, but actually recladding the old building with a modern facade. In the TaiModels version it comes across a bit like a modern hospital, clean, plainly cladded and even a bit emptyish.   Front and centre there is a globe that represents Cairo’s strategic location as a hub connecting Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and Asia.This iconic structure is not only a landmark for the airport, but also a symbol of Egypt’s historical and contemporary significance in global travel and trade.    
 
The Terminal 1 arrival hall facade was very significant in design, it's still sort of still there in shape, but now also newly recovered and clad externally. It looks good, but I miss the old style design buried under there.
 

 
TaiModels does interiors, here it is only the front T1 departure lounge, which is dominated by a huge Egyptian boat which are deeply embedded in Egyptian mythology.
 

 
There are no concourses or satellite terminals here, just three stand areas with the parking range of 1 to 30, so you have a bit of the old Cairo feel here in front of the Terminal, which is enhanced by the huge old lighting towers from the 60's
 

 
Each "Hall" at Terminal does a different operation. Hall 1 (the main one) is the Departure Hall, Hall 2 is an Arrival Hall, Hall 3 is a Domestic Flight terminal and Hall 4 is a VIP reception building. Hall 2 is well modeled internally, with the arrival baggage claim areas, and the matrix roof structure is skillfully done.
 

 
This VIP separate building is reserved for VIPs, dignitaries and special services, and it offers a more private and luxurious experience, with dedicated check-in, security, and lounge facilities.
 

 
Behind landside there are also more eminent structures from the old days, the significant Obelisk is a well-known landmark that travelers often notice when arriving at or departing from the CAl airport. Also the large mosque which is really well done.
 

 
The central Landside area is well filled in, but...   around Terminal 1 it all feels a bit empty. The objects are mostly just placed on the Lo-Res textures and then have had palm trees added. Airside is wide and open, and again the large areas feels sterile. There are a few (very few) animated service vehicles, and little clutters of Cargo Containers, but mostly it is all just this open space around a busy area? Both areas needed (needs) far more detailed clutter and fill to be authentic, and to create that buzzy feel of this important area historic area...  TaiModels have done this impressive work in the past (Sydney YSSY), but it is lacking here.
 

 
Linking the "Old" to the "New" in Terminal areas is an animated Cairo Airport Automated People Mover, which is the first of its kind in the Middle East, it is totally driverless on a route length of 1857 meters. The Capacity of the train is 2000 Passengers per hour per direction. The APM is modeled and animated here between T1 and T3.
 

 

 
Terminal 2 was inaugurated in 1986 with 7 boarding gates (image above). It then primarily served European, Gulf and East Asian airlines. The terminal was closed in April 2010 for complete and extensive renovations starting in 2012 and lasting 36 months. The architecture of the building limited the opportunities for further expansion, which necessitated the entire building to be closed for major structural overhaul at an estimated cost of approximately $400 million,
 
The renovated terminal 3 is operating jointly now with the newer Terminal 2 as one integrated terminal via an air bridge, thus, reinforcing the role of Cairo International Airport as a major regional hub.
 

 
The detail of T2 is exceptionally good by TaiModels, I will admit, this sort of lattice work is their major strength, and it is very complex and well done in the arrival area, certainly notable is the fine roof. Internally T2 is very detailed, if a bit human empty, but certainly worthy of a look around.
 

 
Although the arrival entrance is in one section, you access the gates via another terminal and concourse opposite (via an underground walkway). Internally it is all very well detailed with the main hall and the concourses are all shown, there is a very nice Arabic feel to this side of the terminal....
 

 
E1 to E14 covers 12 airbridges and connecting towers, which are very similar to the arrangements at German (Frankfurt/Munich) airports
 

 
Stand E11 can cater an Airbus A380/B748 (Code F) with three airbridges provided...    All airbridges are very well designed here and are all SAM (Scenery Animation Manager) powered. But as we know SAM has been abandoned by it's developers. You can use OpenSAM as a replacement, its not perfect, but it does work.
 

 
The ramp towers are impressive, as is the excellent facade motif and glass panel detail.
 

 

 
Terminal 3 - given the projected growth, and the limited ability to expand Terminal 2, the Egyptian Ministry of Civil Aviation began construction of Terminal 3 in 2004. The terminal was officially inaugurated on 18 December 2008 and opened for commercial operations on 27 April 2009. The facility is twice as large as the current two terminal buildings combined, with the capacity to handle 11 million passengers annually (6 million international and 5 million domestic) once the first phase is completed. It is adjacent to Terminal 2, and the two terminals are initially connected by a bridge.
 

 
The feel and design of Terminal 3 is very different, with a more coloured earthy Stucco textured facade as part of the usual glass and steel, the arrival entrance however is a massive matrix of support beams, stupendously done here by TaiModels, and must have taken ages to do all this complex detail. Designed by Dar Al-Handasah (Shair and Partners), this structural arrival zone is certainly the highlight of the HECA scenery.
 

 
The detail continues internally...  with an arrivals hall fully decorated and detailed in an Eygptian feel and theme, including centre the prominent statue of the ancient Egyptian deity Horus. 
 

 
Behind up a level, the check-in areas are also well defined with rows and rows of check-in desks, mostly Eithad branded.
 

 
Connecting rear to the two concourses is a large atrium, here also it has been modeled, but not to the extent of the arrivals area...
 

 
Externally the graphic facade has porthole windows, with 3d graphics for ultimate realism. the walkway bridges are also excellent with both the textured Stucco and the steel/glass walkways, it is really well conceived.
 

 
The Stucco motif design continues into both Concourses A and B, with Gates A1 to A23 and Gates B1 to B24 covering both arms. The (animated SAM) airbridge detail is excellent, and all the bridges being Commercial International Bank (CIB) branded for authenticity 
 

 
In the mix there are two more Class F A380 gates on each pier in G5 and F5, and overall the gate detail is very good, but not with much detailed ground clutter. Internally the concourses are also detailed, all with some great Eygptian advertising detail.
 

 
With its hub at the airport centered on T3, EgyptAir's operations were overhauled with the full transfer of its operations (international and domestic) into the new terminal between 27 April and 15 June 2009. To implement the Star Alliance "Move Under One Roof" concept, all Alliance members serving the airport were relocated to the terminal by the first of August 2009.
 
Seasonal Flights Terminal  - on 20 September 2011, Prime Minister Sharaf inaugurated the new Seasonal Flights Terminal (ST), located west of Terminal 3. During the start-up phase EgyptAir operates its daily flight to Medina from the new Terminal. All Hajj traffic of EgyptAir will move to the ST while Saudia's Hajj flights will still operate from Terminal 1.
 
The ST terminal has an annual capacity of 3.2 million passengers with 27 check-in counters and 7 gates with a common gate and single security concept, the first in Cairo. It is designed to handle 1,200 passengers per hour. Passengers will be bussed to remote aircraft stands around Terminal 3. Its purpose is to ease operational strains on the existing terminals during pilgrim seasons.
 

 
Terminal 4 ST is done in the same earthy Stucco style as T3, so it blends in well with the area, there is a very nice blast fence on the apron that covers stands 305 to 312. There is also a nice clutter area of ramp service vehicles and equipment set between The ST and Terminal 3 areas, one of the few in the scenery.
 

 
Cairo Cargo City is the primary cargo facility at Cairo Airport, equipped with state-of-the-art technology and infrastructure. It includes multiple terminals operated by different entities, such as EgyptAir Cargo, which is the cargo division of EgyptAir. The cargo facility is set east, mid-way between the old and new terminal areas. Note the Old (right) and new (left) control towers
 

 
HECA processes about 300,000 to 400,000 tons of cargo annually. This figure includes both international and domestic cargo, with a mix of freight carried by dedicated cargo flights. Most freight is perishables (fruits, vegetables, and flowers), pharmaceuticals, textiles, machinery, and electronics. The Cargo facility is good, but in areas it feels a little empty (for a busy cargo hub) that needed a bit more (a lot more) clutter detailing.
 

 
CAI has actually three control towers. The Main Control Tower (the new one). Approach and Departure Control (the old one) and the original tower on top of Terminal 1 to cover the northeast ramps.
 

 
The main control tower at Cairo International Airport is approximately 56 meters (183 feet) tall. It was built and officially opened in 2009, and is part of the newer extensive development and modernisation efforts at HECA, which included the construction of Terminal 3. It's main job is to oversee these Terminal 2 and 3 zones plus the  runways 05C/23C and 05R/23L. The design is very Arabic, tall and slim, and includes a modeled control room interior at the top with an animated radar on the roof.
 

 
There is Integrated Communication, as the three towers are linked together by a sophisticated communication network that allows the controllers to coordinate their activities seamlessly. The central tower (original) is noted as the "Supplementary Tower" and used for Arrival and Departure, and the (North/East Tower) the "Secondary Control Tower" over the northeast aprons and runway 05L/23R. There is a lot of excellent detail on the Sec Tower, with mobile cell and standard aerials, and again an animated rotating radar.
 

 
Centre of the landside area is the main CAI radar that has a radius of about 60-80 nautical miles around the airport. Nicely well modeled here, and with again the large red animated receiver that can be seen from any part of the airport.
 

 
Infrastructure is very good, with the EygptAir's main headquarters being situated here.
 

 
The ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization ) have a regional office here and the building is represented, also there is the "Aero Sport Halls”, refers to sports and recreational facilities managed by EgyptAir. These facilities are part of the EgyptAir Sporting Club for employees and their families.
 

 
There is a Le Méridien Cairo Hotel, which is directly connected to T3...
 

 
... and the Le Passage Cairo and Novotel Cairo Airport hotels, both here are very basic in 3d and wrap textures. Note, the old Operations centre under the Sup tower is now used as the EgyptAir Training Academy, as seen far left here.
 

 
As you can see here in the images, the modeling has been placed on the textures, but little ground detail was added to fill or clutter the visual aspect, there are trees and fauna, but still to little of that aspect.
 
EygptAir Maintenance. Being the main hub for Eygpt's premier airline. EygptAir has had a Dedicated Maintenance Division at CAI since the 1970s, EgyptAir had to formally established its maintenance and engineering division as a separate entity within the company to service its increasingly complex fleet.
 
Here the complex maintenance base is set around both sides of taxiway J, with the earlier base on the western central section, and the newer section to the east. The oldest drive-through hangar is still here, and glorious it is in EygptAir's logos of Horus, the ancient Egyptian sky god. Horus is traditionally represented as a falcon in the design.
 

 
There are a few more large maintenance hangers on the eastern side, these designs are more modern and have nice arabic motifs set in the doors, mostly though this area is just collections of various buildings and other facilities with a few hangars thrown in.
 

 
Both Terminal area entrances are good, with nice advertising on the T1 approach and a sign arch on the T2/T3 entrance.
 

 
Cairo Pyramids. By now your asking if the famous Eygptian Pyramids of Giza, dated from 2560 BCE are part of the TaiModels scenery? well they are not sadly, but that doesn't say you should not have them as part of the experience....  there is a freeware download by Chris Noe "Egyptian Pyramids & the Sphinx on the Giza plateau", and they are quite recent in design. The track is west of HECA, heading to the Nile Valley and Cairo City.
 

 
The autogen works for you in creating the mass of the Cairo urban sprawl, it looks almost realistic in arrivals from the west. TaiModels have noted in refining the autogen around HECA, to create that urban feel around the airport, and that aspect it is quite successful here.
 

 
Ground Textures. Outwardly the textures look a little flat, but up close (in say taxi mode) they are not that bad, the bright sunlight here can wash out the detail as well. So they are quite knobbly and grooved with detail, with a fair bit of light grunge on closer inspection. Noticeable however though are the hard straight edges that are not at all realistic?
 

 
If you are willing to explore and look at the detail, there is a lot of nice faded and worn areas and lineage in here...  PBR reflective (wet) active textures and burnt-in ambient occlusion are active as the scenery is X-Plane 12 only, but not really a main feature element in Egypt, so you will get no snow or ice here, no flowers either, as being out in the desert the areas can look a a little bland to the eye, as X-Plane never did desert scenarios very well.
 

 
Lighting. HEAC Cairo in the dusk is actually very nice...   all runways are ICAO standard illumination quality in X-Plane 12
 

 
Again Terminal 1 feels like a hospital in the dark, but the overall apron lighting is an unusual yellowly-greenish tinge...  which looks very good, are and very say "old Eygptian", the lighting towers are again a highlight.
 

 
The arrival area of T1 is excellent, as are all the Halls here, and the EygptAir Headquarters stands out as well.
 

 
Internally inside the Halls it is nicely brightly lit, very rare, and it works well.
 

 
The CAI Control Tower is visible from all the approaches, in a shimmy blue feature, as it overlooks the T2 and T3 complexes.
 

 
A highlight is the awning structure at the T2 arrivals area, brilliantly done, looks amazing...  the internally T2 is not as brightly lit as T1, so feels a little duller.
 

 
Around the T2 concourses it again has that yellowish tinge lighting, in most bays the lighting is good, but the towers are a bit dull as is the lighting around the parking areas that need a bit more lighting detail to bring it alive...  where it is done, mostly via the floor detail, it looks very good.
 

 
You are expecting T3 to be well done with it's lighting, and your not disappointed here...
 

 
Internally the lighting is the same brightness as T1, so it works well in all areas from the external view and from the inside.
 

 
The Le Méridien Cairo Hotel looks nicer at night, with the nicely lit connecting covered walkway to T3. Mid apron storage areas are also nicely lit.
 

 
Navigation lighting is good, clear, and abundant, but with no ground reflections. At least there is some fade in the signs for realism.
 

 
Welcome to Egypt!
 

 
Summary
This Cairo International Airport HECA by TaiModels is the very first payware scenery for the X-Plane Simulator...  "Why did we have to wait so long?".
 
To a point you can see why nobody wanted to develop the most important hub in Africa/Middle East. As CAI is a sprawling disconnected area full of hundreds of objects. It has three different styles of terminals and Halls, three control towers, headquarters of EgyptAir and big Cargo and Maintenance facilities. Originally a WW2 United States Army Air Forces (USAAF) base, CAI it has been a commercial airport since 1963.
 
TalModels modeling and design is excellent, certainly with the very complex Terminal 2 and T3...  Terminal 1 however which was recladded and not rebuilt, so here it comes across a bit too plain and clean, more a hospital than a terminal...  however all the four Halls and VIP terminal have been included, including also the entrance Obelisk and mosque. All three control towers are well done, with internal detail and animated radars, as there is highly internal detail in every terminal building. Ground textures are good and have active PBR reflections, burnt-in ambient occlusion. But the straight hard side lines against the bland desert are very visible. Night lighting is overall very good, but apron areas and bays need a bit more detailed side lighting, internally though the lighting is bright and the T2 and T2 arrival areas are spectacular highlights. This scenery is X-Plane 12 only
 
The question here though is the TaiModels approach, as we have seen before. Central important areas like the Terminals and basics are very highly developed, the internal areas here especially so. But outside and boundary features are always lacking. At CAI the aprons and ramps feel very empty and desolate, some areas are not even finished with the lack of clutter and detail.And there is not even provided the expected Egyptian Pyramids to compliment the scenery, small things, but important. The note is this internal detailing is all very nice, but it is on the ramps and at the terminal bays is where we mostly interact with airport scenery, and it is here in those areas that I find it all a bit lacking. Overall though it is a great Cairo Airport to use and enjoy.... and CAI has finally arrived on X-Plane.
__________________________
 

 
The HECA Cairo International, Egypt XP12 by Taimodels is NOW available! from the X-Plane.Org Store
 
HECA Cairo International, Egypt
Priced at US$27.49
 
Requirements
X-Plane 12  (not for XP11) Windows, Mac or Linux 8 GB+ VRAM Recommended Download Size: 2 GB Current version : 1.0 Released July 29 2024   Installation
Installation of HECA Cairo International, Egypt is done via download of 1.87 Gb...
 
There is just one folder to install
HECA_Cairo_Iternational_Airport_Taimodels With a total installation size of 3.31Gb.
 
SAM Plugin - Scenery Animation Manager - Suite 3.0 or higher is required for this scenery, or use OpenSAM as a replacement
  There are no Documents provided by TaiModels
____________________________
 
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 12.07r1 (This is a Release Candidate review).
Plugins: Traffic Global - JustFlight-Traffic (X-Plane.OrgStore) US$52.99 : Global SFD plugin US$30.00
Scenery or Aircraft
-Egyptian Pyramids & the Sphinx on the Giza plateau by Chris Noe -Free-
____________________________
 
Scenery Review by Stephen Dutton
4th August 2024
Copyright©2024: X-Plane Reviews
 
(Disclaimer. All images and text in this review are the work and property of X-PlaneReviews, no sharing or copy of the content is allowed without consent from the author as per copyright conditions) All Rights Reserved
 

 

NEWS! - Aircraft Updated : Tecnam P2006T v9.1 by vSkyLabs
 

 
You have to admit, vSkyLabs have been very busy of late, with currently one or even two updates a month...  Here is the latest, the Tecnam P2006T, now updated to v9.1.
 
The Tecnam P2006T is an Italian high-winged twin-engined all-metal light aircraft, built by Costruzioni Aeronautiche Tecnam based in Capua, Italy, near Naples. The P2006T is the lightest twin-engined certified aircraft available. It is a four-seat aircraft with fully retractable landing gear and powered by liquid-cooled Rotax engines that can run on 92 octane unleaded automotive petroleum as well as Avgas 100LL.
 
Interestingly there are two versions and three avionics models as part of the vSkyLabs P2006T package. The standard avionics configurations of the real-world P2006T includes an analog IFR version, a Garmin G950/G1000 IFR version, and a 'P2006T MkII' option which includes the Garmin G1000 Nxi package.
  The analog cockpit version of the VSKYLABS Tecnam P2006T is equipped with a dual GNS configuration (Garmin 530 + 430), which makes it fully capable of advanced flight planning and navigation. When it comes to its instrumentation, it is a fully capable IFR aircraft, with dual NAV and COMM systems and displays.   New features include: Flight dynamics:
Airfoils update. Aircraft performance validation and tuneups for latest X-Plane 12 flight model improvements. Graphics improvements:
Both variants cockpit textures and normals reproduced and increased by a factor of two for crisp gauges and labels resolution. Enhanced G1000 3-d modeling and PBR textures. Main Annunciation panel (analog variant) remodeled, re-textured, re-wired to new dedicated warning lighting system. Rudder trim indicator (both variants) - remodeled and re-wired to new dedicated lighting systems. Gears lights and indications - remodeled, re-textured and re-wired to new dedicated lighting system. Comm-box (GMA347) - all lights re-textured, modeled and wired to new dedicated lighting system. Gauges night lights tuneups. Lighting panel 3-d engineering and textures improvements. Systems
Increased display resolution for G1000 display (PFD/MFD). Increased display resolution for GNS530. Bug fix for DME2 tuneup in G1000 variant. MP gauge re-calibration in G1000 variant. Added 'push-to-sync' feature to the heading bug knob. Interaction:
RH pilot seat is now defined as PAX
 

 

 


 
This project is part of the VSKYLABS 'Test-Pilot' series, designed specifically for use with X-Plane cutting edge Experimental Flight Model.
  This aircraft is also available for X-Plane 11 (obviously with out the dynamics and effects of X-Plane 12). This update is free to all current Tecam P2006T owners, just go to your X-Plane.OrgStore Account.
 
Images are courtesy of vSkyLabs...
 
The Tecnam P2006T v9.1 update by vSkyLabs is now available from the X-Plane.OrgStore
_____________________________________
 

 
Yes! - the Tecnam P2006T v9.1 by vSkyLabs is NOW available from the X-Plane.Org Store here :
 
Tecnam P2006T
Price is US$32.95 (Currently on sale for only US26.36!)
You Save:$6.59(20%)
 
Requirements
X-Plane 12 or X-Plane 11 Windows, Mac or Linux 8 GB+ VRAM Recommended Download Size: 563 MB Current version: 9.1  (XP12 - August 1st 2024) ___________________________
 
News by Stephen Dutton
2nd August 2024
Copyright©2024: X-Plane Reviews
 
(Disclaimer. All images and text in this review are the work and property of X-PlaneReviews, no sharing or copy of the content is allowed without consent from the author as per copyright conditions) All Rights Reserved
 

 

Aircraft Review : Robinson R66 Turbine XP12 v3.0 by vSkyLabs
 
The Robinson R66 Turbine is a light helicopter produced by Robinson Helicopter Company in Torrance, California, USA. They produce three light helicopter models, including the R22, R44, and R66 models.
 
The R22 is available to all X-Plane 12 users, as it is part of the default fleet that comes with the simulator. The R44 Raven ll comes from vSkyLabs, as does this model, the bigger brother R66 Turbine.
 
The R66 is slightly faster and a far smoother machine than the piston-powered Robinson R44 from which it is derived. The RR300 engine is more compact and lighter than the Lycoming O-540 six-cylinder piston engine that powers the R44—the R66 also has a lower empty weight than the R44.[The turbine RR300 has a simplified single-stage centrifugal compressor which makes it less expensive and results in lower maintenance costs.
 
The largest of the R series is a single-engined helicopter with two-bladed main and tail rotors, and a fixed skid landing gear. The R66 is constructed from advanced composites, aluminum alloy (sheet), and chromoly steel. Like the R44, the R66 has both electromechanical instruments and the optional digital glass avionic cockpit.
 
The Robinson R66 Turbine was released by vSkyLabs first for X-Plane 12, in fact it was the very first available simulation converted for the newly upgraded X-Plane version, but there is an XP11 version available as part of the package.
 

 
Although on sight, the R44 and R66 look the same, there are a few visual differences to accommodate the Rolls-Royce RR300 turbine engine of approximately 300 shaft horsepower (shp). So outwardly the R66 looks cleaner than the more grilled R44. It is also the only Robinson aircraft to have a baggage compartment.
 
Modeling wise there is not much between the two models from vSkyLabs, again there isn't what you would call that ultra-realism feel, like with untextured handles and aerials, then if even a more model bland style with say none of any real world wear or tear feel, so the R66 feels pristine factory brand new. The detailing is however very good, and realistic, as there is that X-Plane 12 depth and shine, or better PBR that is updated here than with the XP11 version.
 
But you can't discount that vSkyLabs is a good if great modeler, because he is, as the detail and shaping does stand out remarkably. The nose is all new in this v3.0 version...
 

 
...   as is the Glass, which is excellent, nicely tinted, reflections and comes with newly added plexiglass scratches makes it all look totally authentic.
 

 
The R66 features two main rotor blades attached to the rotor hub. These blades are made of composite materials for high-strength and reduced weight. Each blade is approximately 33.5 feet (10.2 meters) long.  Routine blade maintenance checks are required typically every 100 flight hours, with replacements quite frequent due to cracks or corrosion. Those airfoils are all new for for v3.0
 

 
The hub here is simplistic in it's design, with a lower swashplate assembly that transfers pilot control inputs to the rotor blades, allowing for changes in the blade pitch. The Pitch Links are connected to the swashplate to perform these actions. Robinson Helicopters also has a feature called a "Teetering Rotor System" This system allows the rotor blades to teeter, or seesaw, which helps in balancing the aerodynamic forces and reducing stress on the rotor hub.
 

 
All the link movement here is animated by vSkyLabs, and the intricate movement detail of all the links and swashplate is excellent.
 
Collective Movement
 

 
Pitch Movement
 

 
Roll Movement
 

 
Tail rotor assembly has the same intricate detail and has full yaw movement. It has built in anti-torque control for better directional stability.
 

 
Tail Rotor Effectiveness (LTE)...  for the R66 is very susceptible of conditions that can be affected by tail rotor effectiveness, such as high winds or with certain flight maneuvers. So getting it wrong by overflying the aircraft will create this loss of tail rotor effectiveness , that can then easily lead to an uncontrollable spin and loss of control of the aircraft.
 
There are four occupants shown in the R66, a Pilot and three Passengers and the Pilot is fully arms and legs animated to the controls...   all four of the occupants are extremely well modeled and are very life-like with classy headsets.
 

 
Clever is the payload weight on the X-Plane "Weight, Balance & Fuel" menu...   here you can adjust the correct weight for each separate passenger, once set below 120 lbs, then the passenger disappears. The Pilot's weight is set at 165-170 lbs. The Fuel load can be set here as well with two tanks, Main 73.6 gallons (278.7 liters) and Aux 16.9 gallons (64.0 liters)
 

 
All four doors are opened manually externally or internally by "Hotspots" on each door handle, but unlike the vSkyLabs R44, you can't make all the doors disappear here on the R66. You can also set the door (opening/closing) to keyboard commands.
 
There are four emergency float packs on the skids, but they are only for show, you can also hide them by pressing the skids "Hotspot". or again a command.
 

 
The cabin is very well equipped, nicely fitted out in great details. The seats are very low-back, unlike most helio seats which tend to be very tall, but the view  and the feeling of space is better because of this lo-design, in without the usual rear closed in effect with the tall front seats.
There are three seats in the rear unlike the R44's twin seating arrangement. Seats are lovely, grey leather and look very comfortable. it's not a carpet flooring in here, but a sort of matting vinyl, it comes with the R66 logo in white. The Circuit Breaker/Fuse box is set under the left seat, and it is fully active, and you can "pop" any of them them to your heart's content.
 

 
Excellent overhead ventilation assembly hangs the four quality headsets when not in use. It is still tight in here though.
 

 
The R66 instrument housing is quite different from the R44 version, more bulbous to cater for the very different avionic layout, very nicely done though with a lovely curved shape to the rear..
 

 
The instrument facia layout is completely different from the earlier R66, there is now a large Garmin style (default) G1000 avionic top, and the smaller G530 is set below...  on power up the avionics will go through a system start (updated with X-Plane v12.1.0)
 

 
Both G1000 and G530 panels popout for ease of use, and they can be scaled and moved anywhere on the screen...  The default on the G1000 is the PFD (Primary Flight Display), but by pressing the red P/MFD button (10 down right), the display will change to the MFD (Multifunctional Display) or MAP layout, again there is a startup screen when initially switching to the MFD. The G1000 is COMM1 and NAV 1, the lower G530 is the COMM2 and NAV 2 settings.
 

 
There are analog (backup instruments) either side of the twin GPS avionics. Top left row is the Speed (knts), Vertical Speed (V/S) and bottom a clock, OAT/Voltmeter and small AMPS gauge...   Right row are the Duel Tachometer (RPM (N2) RRPM, Engine Torque Meter %, Oil-Temp and Oil-Pressure gauges, and bottom a Fuel QTY (quantity), There are also two more gauges for Main Gas Temperature and RPM% N1.
 
Lower instrument panel is a Genesys Helisas which is an integrated avionics system designed for small helicopters. It is a 3-Axis Autopilot that provides control over roll, pitch, and yaw, enhancing stability and reducing pilot workload. other functions include Altitude HOLD and Heading HOLD.
 

 
Centre there is the electrical switch panel, Lighting, Avionics, GEN (Generator) and BATTERY (power), the knob right is the Fuel Shutoff knob with animated guard (there is another (main) fuel off between the front seats, set bottom is a Garmin GTX335 ADS-B Transponder.
 
There is a Annunciator test button top right (white) that does a test of all the systems including the Helisas.
 

 
All Robinson's use the T-Bar Cyclic, but this is the Twin-Grip that can be set for each pilot to use, with built in Frequency selector PPT and AP disconnect switch and HYD switch, the main landing light switch is set mid-column. Notable is the revolving Speed placard on the T-Bar and you can hide the T-Bar via pressing the cover lower. Oddly you can't hide the T-Bar in here like you can with the R44.
 

 
You can though have a single grip to the right like on the R44. Set lower is the collective, basically a very simple handle with a built in starter button.
 

 
Most vSkyLabs Robinson's have used a hang on panel to the main pedestal for the AviTab (Tablet)...  here new it is set left in a hard-case laptop...  it is a high quality tablet, however a bit wasted just for using AviTab (Plugin required).
 

 
Sunvisors work (drop down) via a "Hotspot" on the lower edge...
 

 
...    as with all vSkyLabs aircraft, there are no Menus, or tabs...  there is however a check list when you press the POH, lower right, it puts the list in front of the pilot's face VR style, he also grows an extra arm and hand to hold it?
 

 
Flying the R66 Turbine
Starting is driven by a single starter-generator. During start, the GCU latches the starter to ON until it N1 reaches 58% RPM, and the pilot is not required to hold the start button in during engine start which is positioned on the end of the collective.
Above 58% N1, the starter-generator is being switched out of the starter-mode. The engine then still continues to spool up to idle power, the generator switch however should not be switched ON until idle RPM stabilises (the generator will set a load on the spooling engine, and may reduce PRM). An auto start? pretty close, as the R66 does most if all the work for you.
 

 
It is a very authentic start up procedure, the sounds are great to...  as it is a totally new Multi-Layer FMOD (2) sound package in here, so it feels better than the R44 aurally, so the startup procedure is very good, as is the twin'blade thrush when rotating, notable also is a new good (loud) blade slap effect when you push the aircraft to it's limits.
 
I found it hard to find the throttle control? but the collective is split via the two separated  "Hotspots", the rear is the throttle control, the front zone is the collective lift placement...   now turn the throttle to full power, "No Worries" as the system will not allow any overpowering of the engine limits, you can see the system at work as it absorbs the turbine output, then resettles itself to the best configuration for flight.
 
 
 
....   you can feel that anti-torque control working for you, the R66 is more stable (feels heavier) than the R44 in the controls, it shouldn't, but it is not as nervous to control once off the ground, as you not fighting a niggly tailrotor with the rudder pedals...  note now the new dust effects that came with X-Plane12.1.0. they are really excellent in realism...
 

 
I think the linear smooth turbine power helps here, providing a better power output that makes your life easier. Dip the nose, and little more collective and you are moving forward and up....  "So Smooth", this R66 is not a rattler, it feels like a grown up machine.
 

 
Although the R66 was tuned early to  X-Plane 12, this v3.0 release has had a lot more work done. There are new updated airfoils, but also a retuning tuning of all the engine power gradients, torque, throttle governor and the handling characteristics in the hover mode...  It shows, or more like feels far better and now being very much closer to the real thing....  okay, brilliant to fly, even for a novice.
 

 
Initial rate of climb is 1,000 ft/min (5.1 m/s), but that depends on the weight, as any passenger or large fuel load (both tanks) makes a significant feel to the aircraft (payload) and the performance. That feel aspect is important here, as you will need to fly or adjust to the R66 differently with the weight. Transitioning from a hover to forward flight is smooth here (ETL), and you will gain speed and height quickly.
 

 
Cruise speed is around 110 kn (130 mph, 200 km/h), with a never exceed speed of 140 kn (160 mph, 260 km/h). The Range is 350 nmi (400 mi, 650 km), and the service ceiling an amazing 14,000 ft (4,300 m).
 

 
Robinson redesigned the R66 tail in the 2020s to a symmetrical horizontal stabilizer, to hopefully reduce the danger of mast bumping accidents, such as in during low-G conditions maneuvers. This type of maneuver is more dangerous in a two bladed helicopter, and is severely warned against, however, rare but tragic accidents have led to further investigation and improvements to the flight envelope.
 
I like to fly low and smooth, and the Robinson R66 is great for this style of flying, as you can curve (roll) into the turns and power yourself along at almost treetop height, creating a buzz and excitement that only low helicopter flying can do. Do I like the large G1000 PFD? well it is not actually in your line of sight, were as a good Artificial Horizon is synced in right front of you, so you tend to fly looking slightly side ways and down to see the instruments...  but it is big enough to see from a distance.
 

 
The autopilot in the R66 it is not a Stability Augmentation System (SAS) per se...    as it doesn't fundamentally work in stability augmentation by damping oscillations or smoothing out the control inputs. It is here more of a simple direction and altitude hold system. So you will climb to your required height and set a forward speed and then activate the HeliSAS. Once locked into a altitude and speed, you can adjust your forward speed with the collective to go faster or slower. But to change altitude, you will need to disconnect out of the ALT mode, reset your height, then reset the ALT mode to HOLD the reset altitude, there is no Vertical Speed, there is a button VRT, but no V/S adjustment (knob).
 

 
But for those that lack helicopter skills or want to fly a fair distance, the HeliSAS then is very easy to use, as it takes the stress out of the pilot's hands...  let us be honest, this is a basic helicopter to fly, basic all round, but it does deliver a good simulation with the dynamics of which vSkyLabs are renowned for.
 
Centre left of the instrument panel is the AUX (Auxliary) fuel tank...  first you can see how much fuel is in the AUX tank (situated in the baggage hold) is by pressing the "Quantity" button. Basically it is a fuel transfer system, switch the "Pump On" to transfer the fuel to the main tank, any overflow is then sent back to the AUX tank.
 

 
Forward view is panoramic, with the massive glass area, so your views out are outstanding. Note the Whisky Compass that jiggles with the movement, a VSL feature.
 

 
In 2018, BC Helicopters team (Mischa Gelb, Ruben Dias and Diogo Dias), flew around the world in the R66 helicopter, in an effort called 'EPIC Global Heli World Tour'. The mission lasted 97 days, in which the team covered 30,000 miles, stopping in 45 countries and flying over 5 continents. It established 2 new world records (fastest Antipode RTW on a helicopter, and longest RTW on a helicopter). The vSkyLabs R66 default livery is included here, which is the EPIC 'C-GEAK' call-sign and paint scheme, which was approved for use by BC Helicopters.
    Slowing and descending are tricky. Even with the collective almost to the floor the R66 will still fly high and straight, as a bit of "Autorotation" is working here (or against you). So to descend you need to actually point the nose down, but that just builds up more speed?     So you have to plan early to get down to the right height and speed for landing, so a bit of practise here helps...  again the differences between the R44 with that extremely light wagging tail, and the more forceful yaw push from the R66, helps in the forward control in the final loss of lift phase via the Effective Translational Lift back to the hover mode, as it creates a smoother transition... or a steadier approach.     Again the more forceful liner power allows more control once in the hover (as noted refined in this v3.0 version), easier also to manoeuvre to the slightest movement of the T-Bar...   

 
...  upwash is not too bad, so you can also use it to your advantage, as using it effectively in the last phase to find your landing position and it will then keep the R66 steady or stable at the final descent point.
 
Confident! I was able to lower the R55 almost to the ground, just a few feet off it, hold the hover, then finally let it settle down... easy peasy.
 

 
Did I say "Smooth", yes it is turbine smooth, with these great dynamics that X-Plane 12 provides.
 
Lighting
The lighting is very basic. Externally there are those two mega watt landing lights and navigation lights, that reflect brilliantly on the skids. Strobes are also tail beacons as well in both red and white, but you can switch on either.
 

 
just one knob on the instrument panel to adjust the instrument lights, it's good though as this is a nice looking panel at night, there is a cockpit spot light, roof rear, selected by the switch.
 

 
Liveries
Only three liveries, and basically all in the same style, Cream, Gold and the EPIC version.
 

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Summary
The Robinson R66 is a five-seat light helicopter produced by Robinson Helicopter Company, and it is based on the four-seater R44. The R66 is slightly faster, lighter and a far smoother machine than the piston-powered Robinson R44 from which it is derived. The Rolls Royce R300 turbine engine is also more compact and lighter than the Lycoming O-540 six-cylinder piston engine that powers the R44
 
Note that you are purchasing an ongoing project with any vSkyLabs aircraft and all the development is ongoing, so this is not a 100% fully developed project.
 
Overall most vSkyLabs aircraft are all mostly basic, but they are also fully detailed to the extreme. There are also no menus or static objects or extensive features, as the focus is totally on the dynamics and flying performance, updated here in v3.0 to their full (revised) X-Plane 12 dynamics.
The only interactions are with the few interaction hotzones that; lock the mixture, move the throttle, change altimeters, opening the four doors, you have a 3d checklist and hide half of the T-Bar Cyclic control column for a single control yoke. AviTab intergration and exceptional VR-Virtual Reality is also available.
 
X-Plane 12 updates includes, deep tuning of engine power gradients, torque, throttle governor and the handling characteristics in the hover. Updated airfoils, newly remodeled front panel plate with high resolution instrument holes, enhanced 3-d modeling of RPM, Engine Torque, MGT and N1 gauges. Added scratched windshield and Cockpit panel PBR tune-up for the latest X-Plane 12.1.0 rendering standards. Cyclic T-Bar stick can also be shortened for single pilot operation.
Removed is the avionics extension screen from the front/RH side of the cockpit and replaced with a (AviTab) Laptop. Better lighting and external livery PBR tuneups.
 
Dynamically this v3.0 it a step forward in most of the performance, over not only the R44, but the earlier version as well.
 
So another nice helicopter from VSkyLab's updated to X-Plane 12 to compliment the R44, you want of course more in features, menus and details, but that is not what VSkyLab's is about...  it is all about the flying pure and simple, and in that area the Robinson R66 really delivers with a SAS (basic autopilot), and a far more smoother, powerful turbine experience...  recommended.
 
Now available from the X-Plane.OrgStore or directly from vSkyLabs
___________________
 

 
Yes! the Robinson R66 Turbine Project - VSKYLABS 'Test-Pilot' Series is now available from the X-Plane.Org Store here :

Robinson R66 Turbine Project - VSKYLABS 'Test-Pilot'
On sale: $32.95 US$26.36
You Save:$8.59(25%)
 
Project Main Features:
VSKYLABS 'Test-Pilot' Project. Highly defined flight dynamics model of the Robinson R66 Turbine helicopter Highly detailed model of the Robinson R66 helicopter. Robust simulation of the R66 drive train and RR300 Turbo-shaft engine: Utilizes X-Plane's new and advanced free turbine simulation.  Autorotation capable. Comprehensive systems: Drive system, Hydraulics flight controls, Engine Anti-ice, Starter-generator and ignition system, Fuel system, Auxiliary fuel system, Electrical system with functional CB panel, Lighting, Annunciator panel, Cabin heater, Rotor brake and more. Fully functional VR (Virtual Reality) Ready: highly interactive cockpit environment including levers, switches, fuel cut-off / shut-off guards, 3D checklist viewer, modular cyclic and more. Equipped with Robinson's 'later' advanced panel: a perfect mix of the traditional analog gauges and glass cockpit display. R66 Auxiliary fuel system. Fully featured G1000 (modified). Autopilot Built-in Avitab Compatibility (Avitab plugin not included). Multi-Layer FMOD sound pack. The project is under constant development: development road-map is including flight model refinements, enhanced systems depth, additional liveries and other improvements. Skunkcraft Autoupdater is included: project updates are fast and efficient! Requirements:
X-Plane 12 or X-Plane 11
Fully Optimized for XP12 Windows, Mac or Linux 8 GB+ VRAM Recommended Current version:  3.0 (June 29th 2024)   AviTab Plugin is required for this aircraft   Note: In order to use and enjoy VR environment in X-Plane, user hardware and system specs should meet the required specifications for OS, CPU, GPU, MB and RAM which are specified both in the given VR hardware websites and at X-Plane.com.   Aircraft download is 262 Mb, and unpacked then installed in your X-Plane  Aircraft folder 436 Mb   Documents How to INSTALL your VSKYLABS aircraft.pdf How to UPDATE your VSKYLABS aircraft.pdf VSKYLABS Robinson R66 POH.pdf VSL R66 Essentials.pdf
 
Designed by VSKYLABS Support forum for the Robinson R66 by VSKYLABS _____________________
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 12.1.1
Plugins: Traffic Global - JustFlight-Traffic (X-Plane.OrgStore) US$52.99 : Global SFD plugin US$30.00
Scenery or Aircraft
- KCLT- Charlotte Douglas International Airport UHD by Nimbus Studios (X-Plane.OrgStore) - US$26.95
___________________________
 
Aircraft Review by Stephen Dutton
27th July 2024
Copyright©2024: X-Plane Reviews
 
(Disclaimer. All images and text in this review are the work and property of X-PlaneReviews, no sharing or copy of the content is allowed without consent from the author as per copyright conditions) All Rights Reserved
 

Aircraft Review - Boeing 777-200ER v2 Ultimate by FlightFactor Aero
 
Most airliner flights in Simulation go under the two hour rule, or a route that can be done from breakfast to lunch, lunch to dinner or after dinner and on into the night. So mostly they will also be short-haul Simulations. The market will then cater for this demand, providing B737s, A320s and the various E-Jets.
 
But there is a club devoted to another segment of Simulation, called Long-Haul. Or services that cover not only trans-ocean, but also transcontinental routes, these flights are mostly around the 10 to 12 hour flying time mark, it is an exclusive club, because of the logistics of setting up your aircraft, and then with the long times of flying involved. These significant aspects creates a very different discipline from the two-hour quick routes. But Long-Hauling is also the ultimate challenge in Simulation for aircraft, as to get it right, it can be the most rewarding to the simulator user involved. But to do good long-hauls has always been a very mixed affair in the X-Plane Simulator, mostly because really good long-haul aircraft have not been a priority for developers....   it's a niche area, so why go there.
 
So we have always craved any Long-Haul Airliners, and the pick of the bunch was always the Boeing 777 Series, mainly because it is the most popular long-haul aircraft used by airlines in 1687 of the type being built. The B777 was created in a reaction for the newly created ETOPS (Extended-range Twin-engine Operations Performance Standards) that allowed twin-engined aircraft to perform the same routes as only a four-engine aircraft could only be earlier regulated, but obviously two engines are much more efficient than the heavier four.
 
As early as November 2009, XPJets announced a project for the B777, a standard setting project that brought a 3d cockpit and a quality in design unheard of in X-Plane. But in a development phase of three years, it got slower and not quicker as the project droned on, it felt at the time of a dream never to be realised. Then in September 2012 VMAX in cooperation with FlightFactor released almost out of the blue a Boeing 777 Worldliner Professional, a ground breaking design with not only a 3d cockpit, but it was also plugin based outside the X-Plane PlaneMaker environment. Within months XPJets were gone, and the project was abandoned. (If your curious the XPJet site is still available).
 
The VMAX/FlightFactor 777 v1 aircraft went on to be one of the most successful Simulations in X-Plane, with -200ER, -200LR, -300ER, -200F (Freighter) variants added later. But by the early 2020's the design was getting very long in the tooth, eight years in X-Plane is a design lifetime, it was time for something new...   and here it is in the Boeing 777-200ER v2 Ultimate. And considering the huge reputation of the earlier B777 v1, another plus is that the leading FlightFactor developer in Roman Berezin is now a Boeing 777 rated pilot, and all that personal input has gone into this new V2 version....    so X-Plane and it's devoted followers are expected a lot from this new development.
 
First impressions of the Boeing 777 v2 are actually quite interesting? Your expecting a very highly, even evolutionary experience...  but you don't actually get that. Certainly in every way the B777 v2 is totally absolutely better and different than the 12 year old v1, and certainly as presented here and as lavishly in X-Plane v12.1.0 with its better effects and even better antialiasing, it looks beyond gorgeous...
 

 
However the original B777 v1 is so hugely familiar, in that it sorts of softens the change to the newer version. But that is not the point here, and of the B777 v2.
 
X-Plane quality and detail has doubled, tripled in quality over the last few years, and our eyes are very used now to the grandiosity of the outstanding detail available, certainly since the introduction of X-Plane 12. Yes the FlightFactor B777 v2 has that "Wow" factor! But the point of this aircraft which is very important to explain very early in this review, is that it is the depth of the design, the deep "feel" factor that is the hidden unique bigger feature here as what we shall see later.
 
Also from the start let us abate another fear...  frame rate! The aircraft is hugely (code) complex and a highly extremely detailed Simulation. So it has everything in that can ruin a perfectly good Simulation by destroying your framerate. But the FlightFactor B777 v2 is very good on your framerate, yes it uses up a few frames, but FlightFactor have been very aware of making this aircraft as very efficient as it can be from the start. Yes tricks are used, but it works very well on my computer configuration, and so if you have the required requirements, then you should be fine (I get middle 40's, and a framerate that rarely drops into the high 20's).
 
What is the thing about X-Plane users debating aircraft noses? Mostly usually A320s. Flightfactor had to redefine this B777 nose, I don't know why because it is perfect.
 

 
The FlightFactor v2 comes with the GE90 high bypass turbofan engine that has been designed and developed by GE Aviation primarily for the 777 aircraft family. It outputs thrust ratings anywhere from 81,000 to 115,000 lbf. The Pratt & Whitney engine variant is planned, and notable that even later the Rolls-Royce Trent 800 engine option will also be available.
 
The GE90-94B (94,000 lbs) on this airframe is excellent in detailing and design, it is the straight fan blade, not the curved blade version installed here.
 

 
The biggest criticism of the v1 was the very poor wingflex. That has been totally changed here with a more realistic flexible animation, plus the design of the wing (curve and profile) is far better in it's design...  even impressive.
 

 
When we are faced with a extremely quality designed aircraft, you don't look at the big picture, but at the smaller intricate detail for your guidance on what has been presented...  open up the Flap, Leading Edge and Speed Brake panels, and have a look inside, the results are beyond excellent.
 

 
Notable is the really nice leading edge extension and retraction fitting, also the huge amount of detail under the speed flap panels, it is very well done...  honestly, you may never give this detail a second glance, but you are still very satisfied on knowing it is all still there.
 

 
The same goes for the elaborate landing gear...   enjoy the incredible detail available here, all links, pins, hydraulic and pneumatics are all laid out in great detail...  it is the outstanding realism shown here that you will long be talking about.
 

 
Nose gear is also at the same high-quailty detail threshold, and the detail goes right up into the gear bay.
 

 
Cockpit glass is also really good, with the perfect rainbow effect showing glass thickness and light reflection. Side windows are a bit blander, as is the door detail, to save Frame Weight is a consideration.
 

 
APU (Auxiliary Power Unit) outlet is very good, and the APU air flap opens up as well.
 

 
Externally the FlightFactor delivers what you would expect at this price range, ULTRA detail and quality work.
________________
Cabin
The view we all want to see...   the boarding of the aircraft.
 

 
Front door is exclusive First Class, even exclusive, exclusive 1st Class...  no one goes in here but the VIPs and the ultra rich.
 

 
Front section of the 777 cabin is all "Suites" or cabin style. There are eight of these cabins, and they are all are styled very Emirates Airlines.
 

 
Very exclusive....  Then twelve First Class seats in the section behind. Well done in the Emirati style, in gold and wooden highlights
 

 
If you enter via the second door (the usual boarding door), the First Class cabin is now to your left, right is the small twelve Business class seats.
 

 
The sixteen lie-flat Business seats are the same as the more forward 1st class seating.
 

 
Then the two large economy cabins...   coming in here you feel the huge scale of the inside of a Triple Seven, it looks and feels massive.
 
 
 
Economy Seats are really nicely done with a pretty seat material pattern, footrests and nice armrests.
 

 
All overhead cabin detail is well done with working "No Smoking" and "Seatbelt" signs. All toilets on board can be accessed, but they are extremely tight inside. Internal door detail is also really well done in perfect detail.
 

 
All the (large) galley areas are expertly done and well detailed, they feel very authentic to the period of the aircraft.
 

 
Your probably thinking by now "Why the hell is my computer not going to melt down". But there is a trick going on here? close your cockpit door and all these cabin sections will disappear "poof", and that will lighten your framerate load, open the door and it all comes back!
 
FlightFactor had a feature that opened and closed the cabin window blinds, personally I didn't like it, as I like to look out of the aircraft from the cabin perspective, when looking out, and then down came the blind...  It's back on the 777 v2, but you can also turn the feature off if you want to.
 

 
But we are not finished with the cabin configuration yet? FlightFactor gives you the options to change the cabin configuration. There are five different cabin configuration that you can choose from...  the above is EMIRATES Style, (3 Classes with Cabins), TURKISH Style (3 Classes but no Cabins), 3 Class Cabin, 2 Class Cabin and a Single Class Cabin.
 

________________
Cockpit
Look right on entry though door 1, and there is the familiar corridor to the cockpit, the door can be opened externally by using the keypad code (just don't forget the code, or you will be locked out?). To the right is the crew sleeping area, but currently not accessible, the toilet to the left does work.
 

 
Familiar? well yes, been in here before.
 

 
Obviously it is not the 777 v1 cockpit, but your first glances are deceiving, it's the colour tones and cockpit arrangement that is so familiar.
 

 
Then you start to decipher the detail, the HUGE amount of detail in here...  it will take time to absorb it all, and you should take that time to look around in here, marvel at the all the work. The seat armrests can be folded upwards, and the seat back can also be adjusted to your personal best position, both seats are animated to move backwards and then sideways to get into the position. Seat design and quality is first rate, yes you can spend 12 hours or more in those seats with the lambswool covers.
 

 
Side window blinds are animated, and you can also crank open the side window, by first pulling the lock lever back, then winding the handle lower left.
 

 
Most developers have struggled to make the Boeing 777 cockpit look anything realistic, or come alive. The Brown matt colour is a problem in that it makes everything look very ordinary. But to give FlightFactor credit in having done a very good job here in doing the impossible to bring this cockpit alive, it certainly looks realistic. The central pedestal is really well done, the controls are perfect, and there is a AutoThrust disconnect switch on the end of the throttle handles.
 

 
Both yokes are perfection, smooooth and worn, very nice. There are the switches on the left arm front for "Trim" and for "Autopilot Disconnect", the PTT (Push-To-Talk) switch is hidden behind the left arm, but works. Some 777 Yokes had the 3 Number Memory device from the B737, but in not here. TCAS is with TCAS full version 7 functionality and you have the classic STBY Instruments and also ISFD (Integrated Standby Flight Display).
 

 
The nameplate says "Boeing 777"
 

________________
Power Up
This section is usually in the Flying part of the review, but it is worth the discussion here in this case. First when you approach the aircraft 'Cold", there is a "Load Sheet" between the throttles, a nice touch...  if you click on the paper, it will be moved to the document tray under the MCP (Mode Control Panel).
 

 
Starting up the Triple Seven from cold is a long but very authentic process. Turn on the Battery and nothing happens? But you can then start the APU (Auxiliary Power Unit)...  still nothing happens for a long time? then the SAI (Standby Altitude Indicator) comes partly to life...  still a loooong wait, then finally the displays will flash themselves on and off, still waiting....   then suddenly the 777 systems will come to life,
 

 
But you will still need to set the current position Coordinates in the FMC (Flight Management Computer) and switch on the ADIRU (Air Data Inertial Reference Unit), and a 2nd system called "Secondary Attitude Air Data Reference Unit" (SAARU). Once set the "Time to Align" is shown in the upper left side of the Navigation Display (ND).
 

 
So it takes ages to power the 777 up, but there is helpers to Align the system instantly if you can't wait, there is also an optional setting to have the aircraft powered up (turnaround/ready at the gate) if you want that option.
 

 
Me I love the whole process of the realistic start-up procedure, even if it does lose you twenty minutes or so every time. You can thankfully leave the B777 in the state it was after the last flight (turnaround), so you don't have to do this power-up procedure every single time you want to fly.
________________
FlightFactor do give you a screen on startup, in that you can quickly reconfigure the aircraft to the Simulation you are wanting to do, or carry on forward to the more detailed settings that are already saved in. A third startup choice is the "Situations" a save of the aircraft in the "saved" state.
 

 
There is however something very familiar about it all, you have certainly been in here before, as you know this cockpit so well...   but everything in here is not as it initially seems to be?
 

 
Start probing, or switching things in here, and absolutely EVERYTHING works! every button, switch, lever and system is operational, or has a physical reaction to your inputs, all of the OHP (OverHead Panel) switches and buttons AND every Circuit Breaker (Fuse) works...  EVERYTHING.
 
All instrument displays will "Pop-Out" into Windows via the screw on the display's facia. These include both PFD (Primary Flight Displays), NAV/MAP (Navigation Displays), Upper EICAS ((Engine Indicating and Crew Alerting System) and Lower Secondary Engine Display. All Pop-Outs are moveable and scalable on your screen or display.
 

 
Both FMCs (Flight Management Computer) also popout, plus also so does the rear central third FMC. Front FMCs (CDU1/CDU2) are both Navigation, the rear FMC (CDU3) is for the aircraft's Interaction. Notable was that only the one left side FMC display worked on the B777 v1.
 

 
If you are used to the B777 v1 FMC layout and input parameters, you should really have no problems with the B777 v2 setup. Programming in the system was quite developed on the v1, and yes there has been improvements here in the details, but overall there is little change to confuse you. Note the orange "K" on the top left of the FMC, it is to allow direct data input from the keyboard into the scratchpad.
 
a
 
There is a sort of "Simbrief" interaction, that will load the SimBrief data into the system, but a lot of the detail (mostly weights) you will have to input yourself. It is not as cross-referenced as say a ToLiSS input loading. But fill in a few of the main details, like mentioned aircraft weights, fuel weights and C.G (Centre of Gravity), and so then the rest of the crucial data will then be filled in for you, like the TakeOff Refs and the required Trim percent setting.
 

 
The Instruments and layout is very comprehensive in here, so there is a lot to learn. FlightFactor have not only provided a complete individual Instrument "Cockpit Guide" (157 Pages), but also provided is a flat cockpit poster to study the instrument layouts. Another manual which is included in the package is the full "Flight Crew Operations Manual" of 525 pages, and you will need it to work through everything that is required to use and access this complex cockpit.
 
So it is not only a "Study" aircraft, but a "Deep Study" aircraft, as this 777 is called the "Ultimate" for a reason, but it is far more than that, this is an airline operation level Simulation.
________________
 
Interaction
One of the big features on the FlightFactor B777 v2 is interaction. These tools can help you not only load or service the aircraft, but can also be set it up via the First Officer. Also the Captain, Cabin Crew and Ground Crew are all interactive. This is done here via voice (if annoying? then you can turn it off if you want to) and do the same actions through (Captain's) commands. Let's do the basics.
 
First there is a "Ground Crew" to help you around the aircraft, they are called via first two selections from the menu "Ground Personal on Ramp", and "Captain Commands/Ground Crew" to make them active...   the interaction is done via the CDU3 on the upper pedestal.
 

 
You "Call" the Ground Crew via the intercom system, or the MIC button (MIC switch must be on), then the ground Crew will appear and interact with the crew...  Then placed around the aircraft are the many Hi-Vis dressed Ground Crew that are all animated, which is really well done here.
 


So to add or takeaway anything on the ground you communicate through the CDU3 interface, just like you would do on a real Triple Seven. Need rear door service? then contact the Ground Crew, then select the service you want (CATER SERV)...   when acknowledged, the Ground Crew-Member will ask you if you want anything else?
 

 
Notable down in the lower right corner, are the people (crew) that are currently active on the intercom. Although the Service Vehicle is now set by the rear (5L) door, the door is still closed? (all active Ground Equipment is shown in green)
 

 
A note here, in that all the service vehicles will appear from the sky! You can turn this feature off, and it's one I'm not too sure of? it's not as very realistic as the usual "drive up" mode?
 
So you will now have to call the Purser on the intercom... to open the the door from the Directory! And there are several pages of items you can interact with. The Purser will again acknowledge your call and then open the rear (5L) door for the Service Crew.
 

 
There are also features to do Maintenance on the aircraft....  First though you have to call "Maintenance" on the Intercom, then the engineers arrive by the engine to be maintained...
 

 
The Maintenance options however are all on the menu and include (Reset) Engine Cylinders, (Replace) Blades, (Refill) Engine Oil, (Replace Oil Filter) and APU Servicing. Wheel/Tyre Changing and even wheel servicing is also available, and all the Maintenance done here is noted in the aircraft's log as the "Wear&Tear" of the aircraft.
 

 
The interaction system is even more advanced than this, in that you can also use real voice interaction...
 

 
It should be noted that voice recognition operates on a "Push-To-Talk" principle -the key combination assigned for voice recognition should be held down while you speak and released upon completing the command.

By default, a list of main commands is available for use, and they are located in the "main" section of the commands file. You can also address the first officer by saying "first officer" and all commands from the "first officer" section will become available to you. If your silence lasts for more than 40 seconds, the first officer will return to their duties, and only commands from the "main" section will be available again.
You can hand over control of the MCP to the first officer by saying "your MCP" or "you have the MCP". The first officer will be pleased to set the heading, track, speed, altitude.
 
So this is a very deep intergated system with interaction with the Boeing 777. It will take not only time to learn, but to actually learn and to immerse yourself into this complex, but very real world environment...  you also have the choice to turn off the intergration system if you find it overwhelming. The full capabilities of the system are far too long or too complex to completely explain here...  but it does create another level of serious Simulation experiences.
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EFB (Electronic Flight Bag)
One of the biggest interactions with the FlightFactor Boeing 777 v2, is via the EFB, or "Electronic Flight Bag", which is a built in tablet on each side of the two pilots.
 

 
You can access a page by both the outer button (as you really do in the B777), or by pressing the tab directly on the screen. Grey is active, the teal box is not-active. Again both displays "Pop-Out" via the upper right side screw.
 
Beyond the Start up "Main Menu" page menu, there are 34 EFB pages to access, so it is a very deep and complex menu system, again time will be required to work through and work out all the EFB Menu options. This EFB is one the most complex on any X-Plane aircraft.
 

 
I'm not going to cover all of the 34 menu pages in detail, but just show the highlights of what is available in here.
 
Main Menu
The "Main Menu" shows you 13 Menu options; Airport Map, Performance (blank), Briefing, Navigraph Services, Airplane, Simulation, Ident Page, Terminal Charts (Blank), Documents, Video (blank), Pilot Utilities, Simplified Loading and Shortcuts...  lower is the option to Initialize Flight. Navigation in the EFB is excellent, not only a direct "M" to the "Main Menu", but you can <- go back to the last page, or use the in page "UP" or "BACK" nav tools
 

 
Airport Map
Just type in your ICAO Airport Code in to scratchpad and up will come a scalable map of the airport, and your current aircraft position on the Map (Navigraph Subscription Required).

 
Briefing
Here you can load into the EFB the full Simbrief flightplan Brief, the layout includes 8 different options that are segmented from the SimBrief Application. It is full of all the required data for the flight, and for the aircraft setup, including the Flightplan, Weights, Fuel and Weather/Winds enroute.
 
 
 
Navigraph Services
Here you log into your "Navigraph Services" account, you then add in your "Simbrief Username" (note important! this is your "User Name", not the usual SimBrief ID that you use here), then press "Get Data from SimBrief tab to load in your already created Flightplan/Brief.
 

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Airplane
There are 14 tab options on the "Airplane" tab; Doors, Ground Service, Weight & Balance, Maintenance, Pushback, Cabin Controls, Dispatch (MEL-Minimum Equipment List), Training, Failures Control, Captain's Commands, Walk-Around, Loading Service, Ongoing Processes and Align Adiru Now.
 

 
Doors
There are 8 main cabin doors that you can open, plus the three Forward, Aft and Bulk Cargo doors. There are also two small access doors in ACC and E&E that also can be opened. There is an AUTO/MAN option and EMER OPS option as well.
 


 
Ground Service
There are two pages of 22 options on the "Ground Services" pages.
Page 1 includes; GPU 1&2, Chocks, Bus, Stairs (1L), Air-Con Truck (L&R), Stairs (3L), Cater Service, Lav (Service) and Water Truck.
Page 2 includes Gear Service, Pneumatic (Service), Engine Maintenance, Fuel (Tanker L&R), De-Ice and Hydraulics (Service). Other Options include the two Baggage Loaders called transport here.
 

 
Like the FlightFactor v1, you have to have the Bus/Gate/Stairs visual to load Passengers, Fuel Trucks to Load Fuel, and the Baggage Loaders to load the Cargo, this is done from this page.
 
There is a lot of ground equipment available here, stairs for 1L and 3L doors, but not for 2L, which oddly is the main loading door for Economy Class? Again the Catering Service Vehicle is on 5L, but not on 1R?
 

 
The De-Ice feature is very similar to the one with ToLiSS aircraft, but be aware, it takes a lot of it's own considerable time to go around the aircraft, so if you want to fly quickly, then don't activate this feature, but very good it is with three De-Ice trucks all working together.
 

 
On the "Ground Services" page left lower are two more options...   Maintenance and Presets. Maintenance we will look at shortly...
 
Ground Service State Presets
Here you can use set presets, including; Preflight, Fueling, Pax (Passenger) Loading and Pushback. There are also three "Custom" presets you can "Save", and use by the "Load" Preset option.
 

 
Weights & Balance
This W&B section will set up the aircraft in weight and C.G. Balance. You can import the data from "Simbrief" to fill in the load factors. It is quite comprehensive, but also far more straight forward than the odd v1 layout
 
 
 
You can adjust the weight of most things, from the passengers (also ICAO Summer Correction!), Cargo and its placement and fuel. At the end there is a full "Weight Summary". It is all very well presented and comprehensive.
 

 
There is a very helpful "Fuel Planner" tool, but overall FlightFactor still also provides you with a "Simplified" system to quickly load the aircraft if you don't want to go into the minute details of absolutely everything. So you can just do a quick "Load" of the details from Simbrief and then quickly load the aircraft ready for flight (note Simbrief doesn't currently load in the FMC data as noted earlier).
 

 
Maintenance
You not only have failures, but you also have the life running wear and tear of the aircraft. These areas are contained in the Maintenance tab of the aircraft. Galleys&Restrooms, Hydraulics, Gear&Tires, Electrics, Engines, Oxygen all have to be maintained or repaired. Hatch Inspection will open 19 hatches or access points on the aircraft.
 

 
The hatch detail around the 777 is excellent, the dome/doors open to reveal the Honeywell Radar is really well done, as is the placement of the AlliedSignal Engines 331-500 APU in the tail.
 


 
You can also open the cargo doors externally via the opened small access hatch, but you have to get close to activate the switch to open and close the highly detailed cargo door. Note the loader personal inside the cargo compartments.
 

 
You can "Test" (GPWS), Check the "Current" list of Maintenance Issues, and also do a "Instantaneous Full Maintenance", to rectify everything in a one button press.
 
Pushback
The FlightFactor 777 v2 has it's own dedicated Pushback tool. (BetterPushBack doesn't work on this aircraft?)...  but it is a very good one!
 

 
Set the Boeing 777 ready for pushback (brakes off), and then Select "Start Pushback". This will call a very highly detailed pushback truck to the aircraft, then you "Connect" the Pushback Truck to the nose gear of the aircraft. When connected you get a control panel that shows you the Torque of the load, and the Speed in Kmh.
 

 
There are also four views you can have in four boxes top left, External, Rear view, Close rear view & cabin view.
 

 
The Arrow will show you your push direction, and the drivers seat rotates into the direction you want to go.
 

 
Power is by your throttle, and that is shown in the Torque dial, brake is again the usual "B" brake, shown as a T in the window...  then the B777 can be pushed back...  steering is Left-Right via your joystick. It is tricky to use until you practise with the controls, but very good it is in moving the big Boeing around.
 

 
When correctly positioned, you can "Disconnect" or "End Process", to disconnect the truck, then press "Wave Off" which gives you a animated walking ground person, then the ground personnal shows you the connecting pin (à la BetterPushBack)
 

 
It is a very good Pushback tool, one that gives you a lot of control, plus clever working animated ground staff doing their jobs, I love it.
 
Cabin Controls
Here you can set the aircraft's Climate Control, Cabin Light Control & WC (Toilets) Maintenance. All very clever on the detail of settings of the aircraft's in flight requirements.
 

 
MEL - Minimum Equipment List
MEL is the "Minimum Equipment List", this is a document based on the master MEL (MMEL) provided by Boeing. Each operator can modify the MMEL (making it harsher) to suit its SOPs. In this model you have the opportunity to do the same. The MEL is electronic in your EFB, however, it will not prevent you from actually dispatching the flight. There are three numbers A/R/O –available / required / operational.
For example, the airplane has 3 AFDC system available, If at least one item on the list will have the O-number < R-number, the flight will not be dispatchable. It is a complex system that is still ongoing and being developed by FlightFactor.
 

 
Failures - Training
Two Selections in "Failures" and "Training" can be cross-referenced between each other. The "Failure" feature is very comprehensive with two pages of 14 separate categories, and in that you can also create "Failure Scenarios" There are currently 1000+ failures programmed into the system and their number will increase in the future. You can also "Reset All Failures" in a global setting.
 

 
Of the failure that can be triggered. The status column will show if it's INACTIVE or FAILED, and the random failure time column shows the time in hh/mm/ss till the system will randomly fail. Failures are also categorised into three classes: Major, Regular and Minor. Within the set MTBF a major failure can occur at a random event with a probability 3 times smaller than regular and a minor 3 times larger.
 

 
You can add in an "Event", Then select the category that you want to fail...  The "Search" is a great option here to find the item in the hundreds of choices. Then you can select the "When/Where" Failure from a drop down tab (Immediately, In time, above/below Altitude, above/below speed, in case of failure). 
 
The "Training" page gives some of the same functionality as the "Failures Control" page but with some preset aspects. The preset failure pages (on the right) have time/location chose bar on the top, choice of side (in this example) below and then a list of possible abnormal conditions. You may choose one condition at a time. Some conditions will also trigger a single failure, some will trigger several at once. Some will initiate a scenario of abnormal behavior whose path will depend on your action.
 
Captain's Commands
If you want to do the spoken commands via a button press, then you can via the "Captain's Commands" page. The requests cover the; Ground Equipment, Hatches, De-Ice, FWS (Front Wheel Steering) and Installing pins in the gear.
 

 
Walk-Around
There is a Walk-Around checklist, that you can check off, and then reset.
 

 
Other Airplane options include; a Loading Service, Ongoing Processes Overview and to "Align (the) ADIRU Now".
 

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Simulation
Under the "Simulation" tab is all the areas to set up the aircraft to your liking; General, Avionics, Ground Operations, Situations, Graphics, Effects and Sound, Interaction, Crew Interaction and Check list options. "General Options" gives you parameters on the way you would like the aircraft set up to your personal preferences
 

 
Avionics
Under the "Avionics" tab, you get the usual wide and varied FlightFactor system of options in setting up the avionics of the aircraft. The "EFIS" options are excellent and give you a lot of instrument display choice, the setup system is VERY deep.
 

 
Highlight here are the "Segment Display" options, as you can set the displays to; All White, All Amber, All Red, Mixed Amber, Mixed Red and Mixed Any.
 


 
Situations
On of the biggest strides in features in X-Plane was created by ToLiSS (other developers had variations of the idea). In that you could save a "Situation" and reload the situation back into X-Plane to recreate the place, time and aircraft setup as it was saved. If you have a Computer crash, or just want a certain aircraft set up, then you can choose and reload the original situation.
 
The version here is as good as the ToLiSS version, as it will reload every single parameter saved. In my case here I have set up the aircraft for flight, including programming the FMC on the route. When ready to depart, I can then just LOAD in that "Situation" and I am ready to fly!
 

 
You can change the save order by either "As cending" or "Descending". Notable at this point, there is currently no "Auto" save, a system that will save situations automatically every time set (5min, 10min, 15min). But FlightFactor notes this option will be done soon.
 
Other Situation options include, Graphics, Effects and Sound, Interaction, Crew Interaction and Subtitles. The SOUND options are quite basic; Master, Exterior, Interior, CoPilot and Environment, but it is very adjustable to the volume of the sound.
 

 
A clever tool is the "Pilot Utilities" set of tools for; Speed, Length, Weight, Temperature, Volume, Pressure and Time Zone Conversions. There is also a "Timer/Stopwatch" tool as well. Documents, Manuals and Images can also be used in the EFB in a "Document Library", and there are provisions for you to load in your own pdf and jpg images.
 

 
What we have covered here in the EFB, is only the highlights. As noted there are 34 different pages to access and use (learn as well), so it is the biggest menu system ever in X-Plane, probably in Simulation as well. So you are not only learning the actual aircraft, but it's needs and settings as well.
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Checklist
The "Checklist" is oddly not part of the EFB - Flight Bag. But it is set in the lower EICAS Display. You access the checklist via the button on the right "Display Access Panel" (lower far left).
 

 
The checklist is very comprehensive, and has three major modes: Amplified, Supplementary and Normal. Normal (Regular) is the main checklist. Other checklist options are for different pilots and certain procedures (Ampified) and Non-Normal systems Menus
 

 
You get a big magenta cross cursor to navigate and select items on the checklist....  overall the checklist is very comprehensive.
 

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Banner Menu
All of above can mostly be accessed via the X-Plane banner menu "Boeing 777 200ER for quick and easy access to critical items.
 

 
There are four menu options; Options, Equipment, EFB and Captain.
 
Options covers; Avionics, Cabin, Checklists, Effects, FO, General, Ground, Interaction, Subtitles and Systems.
 

 
Equipment covers; Baggage Loaders, Passenger Bus, Main Cargo Loader, Catering Truck, Chocks, De-Ice Equip, Engine Maintenance Kit, Fuel trucks (L&R), Gate, Ground Air-Con (L&R), GPU Primary/Secondary, Ground Starter (L&R), Hydraulic Replacement kit, LAVS Service, Secondary Stairs, Tyre Replacement Kit, Luggage Transporter and Water Replenishment Truck.
 

 
EFB covers; Show/Hide EFB 1&2, Airplane, Situation, Shortcuts, Doors, Ground Service, Weight&Balance, Loading Service and Pushback.
 

 
Captain covers; Read Briefing, Remove Ground Equipment, Request Close Hatches, Disconnect from Ground Crew, Request De-Icing and Establish Communications (shortcut).
 

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Lighting, Internal & External
The lighting on the B777 v1 was actually quite good. But here you have a decade of advancement and refinement. These images here show you X-Plane v12.1.0, and the even more refined effects, including bloom lighting effects.
 

 
All the Boeing 777 lighting modes are active, and adjustable. You you do actually expect this on an aircraft of this scale. One note is that you can easily "Overbright" the instruments, and with that setting they become too bloomy (there is also a setting called "Lamp Glow" that also highlights the bloom) and you lose the realism. So all the lighting settings for the instruments need to be toned down to look and be realistic. Get the tone right and the cockpit is breathtakingly realistic. The highlight is the centre console with all those the transparent knobs, it is beautiful beyond belief...
 

 
....  all the lighting for the MCP and Main instruments are lovely and adjustable to your personal satisfaction, and there are MAP lights for each of the pilots (the spots are beam adjustable). The two side lighting options are CHART and WORKTABLE.
 

 
There are also two main cabin lighting settings. DOME (lower left image) is the adjustable lighting, and STORM (lower right image) is a full cockpit lighting setting. There is also the "MASTER BRIGHT option as well. The down-lights are hidden behind grids on this version, but the sources are not completed yet in this pre release version, I expect them to be fixed for the release.
 

 
Cabin Lighting
There are three cabin lighting settings on the EFB. Main (overhead) cabin lighting, Ambient (wall) cabin lighting and Galley (Kitchen) lighting. There is also the emergency Lighting. The main cabin lighting is modern LED, and the wall lighting is the older strip lighting we know so well, and really well done here...  both Seatbelt and No Smoking signs work.
 

 
Galley lighting is very nice as well, it feels very authentic to the aircraft and it's 90's design.
 

 
External Lighting
All the external lighting is completed. Includes both taxi and nose lights, to supplement the main landing lights.
 

 
Navigation, Beacon (upper/lower) and Strobe lighting is perfect, and both white and red/green navigation lights are presented. The WING lights up the engines/wing and there is a tail light, and again all very good, but a touch more brightness would be nice...  but they are both still far more brighter than the images depicts here.
 

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Flying the FlightFactor Boeing 777 v2
7th June 1995 was a significant day. As it was the inaugural first flight of the Boeing 777 Series aircraft. The Route was from London Heathrow (LHR) to Washington Dulles Airport (IAD). The Boeing 777 was in response to United's requirements of an aircraft to replace the Douglas Tri-Jets, and in being able to fly three different, but significant United routes in Chicago - Hawaii, Chicago - Europe and Non-stop from Denver (a hot and high airport) and again to Hawaii, plus the bonus of having a more efficient two-engined aircraft on all long-haul routes.
 
It is a typical London overcast grey day...   If on ground power, you have to turn the battery OFF, then back on again to start the APU (Auxiliary Power Unit), it's a tricky thing to start up, but in most cases it is a "Low Oil" indication that has to be rectified. I mentioned the "Tire Pressure" warning earlier as well...  another item to be rectified before flight, or the warning is a consistent annoyance once airborne. Did you set all the "Doors" to "Auto", you better, as the aircraft won't start unless you do, it's that sort of simulation.
 
Ready for pushback...  I'm still not fully competent with the Pushback tug, I am getting better at driving it, but it is not as easy as using the BetterPushback tool. That said it is very good, and very realistic, and note the ground worker with the pin.
 

 
There is the option to adjust you eyesight in the seat to your real height, adjustable on the EFB, it bounces you up (or down) until it feels right.
 

 
Time to start the GE90 engines. Set the bleeds for power from the APU, and turn the START switch. Number 1 Engine first then No. 2. There is the noted 25% to 30% N2 indication before moving the selected engine Fuel Control switch, that then completes the fully automatic B777 startup engine sequence.
 

 
The GE90-94B has excellent startup procedure sounds, the whine, then the deeper powered fan whine when running in an 3d environment, but it is the background sounds that are very impressive in the cockpit. You hear the engines, but it is the hum in your space that you feel the authenticity of the aircraft around you. Flaps set to 15º, Trim is set to 32.8% of MAC.
 

 
One thing I am very impressed with the interaction of the switchgear, is that the response is not immediate, but is slightly delayed...  press a button and it will slightly hesitate before doing the action, it gives the switches or buttons a very authentic and realistic feel as you use them.
 
Slight power to the throttles and Park-brake off, and I am moving. If this is your first time at this point, it is a very memorable moment, your now this far with a clean OHP and running engines, as its an achievement to get this far, and that is what also makes this simulation so special. The skill required to get the aircraft ready for flight as this is a very complex real aircraft, and now your in complete control and doing everything right.
 

 
Taxiing is nice, actually not that different from the v1, but you are very aware that this 777 is a very different concept.
 

 
It is 3494 nm to Dulles, at a 8 hours flying time. A last glance around the instruments, and you set the clock running....  brakes off and throttle up. The whine then comes in, a howl really and your feeling the combined energy of those two GE90-94Bs at 94,000 lbs each moving you now forward.
 

 
Your powering down LHRs 27R runway, and with a heavy 15º flap the aircraft is quickly wanting to lift (5º is a better setting)...  v2 is 148 knts, and as soon as you touch the bug you are pulling back on the yoke to easily go airborne, "Positive Climb" is the call from the right seat.
 

 
You wonder how such a very large six wheeled bogie could fit into the aircraft's belly, two main bogies in fact...  they do and it is worth watching the operation. Also note the excellent quality of the detail of the aircraft...   it is a work of simulation art.
 

 
Your flying the "Triple Seven", and a good feeling it is.
 

 
I climb 2000 fpm to 12,000 ft. But the B777-200ER is quite impressive if you want to push the parameters. To 5000 ft you can use 3000 fpm, to 15,000 ft you can do 2500 fpm and in a mach climb 0.83 to altitude 1500 fpm. Sounds on the flightdeck are gorgeous and numerous, but externally the grinding whine of the GE90s is stupendous.
 

 
If you thought this was my first flight in the Flightfactor B777 v2, then I'm sorry I mislead you, as it's actually my second. The first was an orientation flight from Gatwick (EGKK) to Barcelona (LEBL). But there was the quick realisation of how this "Heavy" flew, in fact it was an unnerving experience.
 
Don't get me wrong here, the effects are the opposite of what I expected. The unnerving aspect is how really, really good the feeling and handling of this big aircraft is. it is uncanny as a simulation. In FlightFactor developer Roman Berezin as a Boeing 777 rated pilot, has dialing into the simulation the perfection of it's abilities, and it is an amazing experience to explore the aircraft under your control and within 2%-5% on the real world standard certification test. So remember everything works in this cockpit, but everything else works as well, the touch of the controls, the aural sounds, the feel of the aircraft in actual operation.
 
Obviously I have not flown any aircraft in other Simulation platforms but X-Plane (okay I flew a little in MSFS), but could I call this out as one of the best ever of an aircraft simulation on a computer. That aspect is a very big call "The best ever", and surely someone will question my reasoning...   but in a decade or so of long haul flying, I can't remember any experience as good in feel as this aircraft.
 

 
Mostly it does exactly what you want it to do, but with the right inertia in movement and operation. That deep down and beyond pretty well everything else, this is the core of the depth of this Boeing 777 simulation, that real depth of feel. For all tons of features and mega menu options, this is a new depth of immersion simulation that you are now entering...  another higher dimensional level, and it is a huge jump forward in flying aircraft on computers.
 

 
I'm now at 37,000 ft (FL370). In most cases I usually climb up to a lower Flight Level, then step up to the final set altitude, burning off fuel for say 500 nm before the final climbing to altitude. But this aircraft is not a full Gross Weight (ARW) 222,209 kg, as the current MTOW for the -200ER is 656,000 lb (297,550 kg). So today I have to climb higher and quicker to get on top of a weather pattern off the west coast of Ireland, and the -200 did that flight level change aspect with ease.
 
Range for the 200ER (Extended Range) is 7,065 nmi (13,080 km) as this is the first generation B777. The LR (Long Range) had an endurance of 8,555 nautical miles (15,844 km) as the -200LR features an increased MTOW and three optional auxiliary fuel tanks in the rear cargo hold. Max speed is Mach 0.87 – Mach 0.89 (499–511 kn; 924–945 km/h), with a usual Cruise Mach 0.84 (482 kn; 892 km/h). Ceiling is 43,000 ft.
 
I haven't explored too much the crew interaction feature, with say the First Officer doing the flying. But long haul is about hours of just monitoring the instruments and doing the notes. I spent some very long hours in the B777 v1, notably in the F - Freighter -200 version, I expect that version to come soon, as also is promised a -300ER and a -200LR. From the left seat it is a very nice place to be... this is an excellent Simulation.
 

 

 
If flying Oceanic (Atlantic or Pacific) there are "Oceanic Control Areas". these routes do use a "Airway" or North Atlantic Tracks (NAT), but they don't work here in programming the route in the FlightFactor B777 v2. The Airway here is "NATD", or four coordinated waypoints. To insert the waypoint you have to airinc shorthand the waypoint. So 55°0'0.0"N 020°0'0.0"W is shorthanded to 5520N and 5°0'0.0"N 030°0'0.0"W is converted to 5530N. There is a section 11.31.16 (766) in the DOC manual that explains it.
 

 
One thing about long haul is that you have plenty of time on your hands.... so you can tend to focus on the areas around you. The quality of the eyebrow with the X-Plane 12 dynamic lighting show how exceptional the Simulation in realism is today, and just looking around the cockpit is a very satisfying experience, even with a few X-Plane 12.1.0 Field of view shots.
 

 
Long haulers love their "Toys", or things to play with to pass the time. One I really love here is "Coffee". Now if your a serial coffee drinker like me, then you would consume a few cups in the air, but what if you drank the whole "FlightFactor" branded cup and it disappears?
 

 
Well you go to the CDU3 "Interface" and call the purser (if active again they are shown lower right screen). Note the comms for the Purser is different from the Ground Crew comms, then ask the Purser for a fresh cup of coffee (R4), and lo and behold, you will now have a fresh cup of hot coffee (smiles).
 

 
It works in the rear seats as well, and you can even order a "Crew Meal", but no food is actually delivered (well not yet!).
 
Then the Navigation display starts to fill up with waypoints, it's Newfoundland, and we are now over the "Pond".
 

 
Approach to Washington Dulles (IAD) 19L is via STAR HYPER 9, it is a straight in from the north approach. I start my descent about 160 nm out, down to 10,000 ft ( I never do TOD descents, they are too steep). Again it is that the aircraft responds so very well to your inputs, that is a sign of a very well developed aircraft. The TERRAIN radar feature is very good as well, this was on the FlightFactor B757/767, very good there, and so it is here.
 


 
A note, in that the FlightFactor B777 v2 uses some custom commands, but odd ones? Like the Autopilot can be disengaged via the usual X-Plane Command, but you have to set the 1-sim AT (Autothrottle) disconnect via the FF custom command. You can choose between or both Left and Right AT buttons on the Throttle quadrant, and another note is to press the button for both the AP and AT disconnect TWICE to kill the noisy alarms....  Gear down!
 

 
Final approach and soon the 19L ILS (ISGC) capture is coming up for a CAT III landing. Open the B777 v2 shows off all it's incredible innards, the detail available to you here is really quite special, even the hardest punter will marvel at all this detail. Approach speed is around 150 knts.
 
Watching B777 landings (YouTube) I noted most pilot's disconnect the AT at about 300 feet, then let the big Boeing continue it's falling approach, to move into a nice flare when passing over the threshold, that what I did here and came into a perfect landing around 143 knts.
 


 
It's all action when the main bogies touch the runway...  FULL reverse power and touching on the toe-brakes to keep the Triple Seven straight, your all arms and legs in bringing this massive aircraft down to a safe taxi speed. The roar of the reverse thrust is huge, and really well done to your finely honed ears, it is all so all very realistic, that the hairs on your neck tingle with excitement of the reality of the moment.
 

 
And the recreation of that 7th June 1995 inaugural first Boeing 777 flight is done...  the rest is as they say is history, in creating one of the greatest aircraft in airline service to date. That aspect is now very realistic to everyone, with the chance to fly this exceptional FlightFactor Boeing 777ER
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B777 Liveries
Provided with package are six B777 Liveries...  there is a FlightFactor House, Air France, British Airways, Emirates, KLM and United UC. Quality is excellent on all the provided liveries.
 

 
But your not going to miss out on your favorite livery, the painters are already churning out liveries at a rate of knots, and already there is plenty of choice, here are three; American One World, Singapore Airlines and Delta.
 

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Summary
The VMAX/FlightFactor 777 v1 aircraft went on to be one of the most successful Simulations in X-Plane, with -200ER, -200LR, -300ER, -200F (Freighter) variants added later. But by the early 2020's the design was getting very long in the tooth, eight years in X-Plane is a design lifetime, it was time for something new...   and here it is in the Boeing 777-200ER v2 Ultimate.
 
And considering the huge reputation of the earlier B777 v1, and another plus is that the leading FlightFactor developer Roman Berezin is now a Boeing 777 rated pilot, and all that specialsed input has gone into this new V2 version.
 
This v2 of the "Triple Seven" breaks boundaries in every direction you can think of for a simulation. And it is about as feature laden as you ever could wish for.
 
Highlights include perfect mirrored systems of the real aircraft and comes with highly detailed modeling, and it is almost to the extreme in replication of a real world B777, and this all coming in the latest X-Plane 12 guise and it's effects. But it's the features that stand out.
 
Highlights include Aircraft and Ground crew interaction (with real animated ground crew), full maintenance on the aircraft and regular servicing is also required. Failure list is a 1000+ options and the largest most comprehensive 34 page EFB (Electronic Flight Bag) in simulation. Full ground Servicing and external to internal aircraft access is also available, with five different cabin configurations that you can choose from. 
 
Sounds are extensive, and are highly realistic, from the cockpit environment to the start up procedures, and in flight external and quality internal soundscapes. All sounds in are doppler and 3d 360º aural motions. Hundreds of custom sounds are recorded from the real aircraft, with a significant 3D stereo sound system just for the engines.
 
Notable is that the systems and set up of this aircraft is complex and complicated to mirror real world operations, so to be aware there is required a fairly large learning curve and study aspect to the aircraft, however FlightFactor do provide tools to set up and fly the aircraft in a more simplified approach, so you can access the Simulation at the level you want to, then go deeper as you learn your skill sets.
 
But the real breakthough on the B777 v2 is the more deeper flying characteristics and handling than on any other Simulation. A ground breaking revolution in the way you approach and fly a Simulated aircraft on a computer. The FlightFactor v2 is probably the most leading aircraft simulation ever produced, and that is a big statement.
 
The FlightFactor v2 had a huge expectation of this one of the larges and most comprehensive release for the X-Plane 12 Simulator. It does actually, and in many areas achieve, even deliver more than those high expectations...   that statement alone delivers another level in the journey of Computer Simulation, it's an historic release in more ways than one and an excellent investment, but a release that delivers and exceeds in those high accolades is a moment to savour and remember, but most of all to fly....  Highly Recommended.
__________________
 
Yes! - the Boeing 777-200ER v2 Ultimate by FlightFactor Aero is Coming Soon! from the X-Plane.Org Store here :
 
Boeing 777-200ER v2 Ultimate
Price is US$99.00
 
Requirements
Plane 12, X-Plane 11.50+
Windows 10+, Mac OS 10.15+ (Intel or Apple Silicon) or Linux 14.04 LTS or compatible, 64 bit mode
Disk Space: 5 GB

X-Plane 12:
Minimum Requirements:
CPU: Intel Core i3, i5, i7, or i9 CPU with 4 or more cores, or AMD Ryzen 3, 5, 7 or 9, or equivalent
RAM: 16 GB
Video Card: a Vulkan 1.3-capable video card from NVIDIA or AMD with at least 6 GB VRAM
Current version: 1.0 (June 14th 2024)   Designed by Flightfactor
Support forum for the Boeing 777-200ER v2 Ultimate
 
Download
The FF Boeing 777-200ER is a 432Mb download with an installation size of 5.20GB, in your X-Plane Aircraft folder, this is an X-Plane 12 aircraft only.
 
All updates are via the built-in Skunkcrafts Updater
 
Documentation
There is excellent full coverage documentation and installation details for the B777, including;
777reqs.txt changelog777.txt cockpit.pdf (157 Pages) manual.pdf (76 Pages) poster.jpg systems.pdf (Official Crew Operations Manual) (528 Pages) terms_of_use.txt voiceCommands.txt  
_____________________
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 (and a new PSU)
Software:   - Windows 11 Pro - X-Plane Version 12.1.0 Beta
Plugins: JustFlight-Traffic (X-Plane.OrgStore) US$52.99 : Global SFD plugin US$30.00
Scenery or Aircraft
- EGKK - London Gatwick Airport v2 by PilotPlus+ (X-Plane.OrgStore) - US$21.00
- EGLL - London Heathrow International Airport - XP12 and 11 by Taimodels (X-Plane.OrgStore) - US$28.00
- KIAD - Washington Dulles International Airport by Nimbus Simulations (X-Plane.OrgStore) - US$29.95
 
Note this review was covered in the latest X-Plane12 Beta release v12.1.0, but the aircraft and it's systems were also tested in the earlier X-Plane 12.05r1, with no significant issues. The FlightFactor aircraft shown in this review is also an Alpha v2.0.10 release.
 
Review by Stephen Dutton
14th June 2024
Copyright©2024: X-Plane Reviews
 
(Disclaimer. All images and text in this review are the work and property of X-PlaneReviews, no sharing or copy of the content is allowed without consent from the author as per copyright conditions) All Rights Reserved
 

Aircraft Review : Airbus A380-842 XP12 by Peters Aircraft
 
The Airbus A380 is a very large wide-body airliner that was developed and produced by Airbus. It is the world's largest passenger airliner and the only full-length double-deck jet airliner in service. Airbus studies started in 1988, and the project was announced in 1990 to challenge the dominance of the Boeing 747 in the long-haul market.
 
I am first going to acknowledge that the Airbus A380 is an absolutely monumental aircraft. I personally have a lot of adulation for the machine. I think it has had a lot of unwarranted negative statements about it, but getting close to one, and flying on a A380 (four times to date), it is a brilliant addition to aviation. What the A380 achieves is not being recognised, and only then will its impact on aviation be it's lasting legacy when it is gone. So I am a little biased here in this review towards the aircraft, any A380 to fly in X-Plane 12 is going to fill my reasoning, it is the biggest and hardest long-haul machine to fly, or to fly correctly.
 

 
There has been three A380's in X-Plane, Riviere's A380 is the most known, but I never really liked it, as the performance was shocking. There was another freeware, but that design was even worse in it's cardboard quality. There was an announcement back in April 2024 by X-Works that they were indeed developing a payware A380, but that project is still very much in it's infancy...  the last payware A380 was from Peter Hager, or Peters Aircraft. Originally an X-Plane 10 era release, but the aircraft has then fell into a long decline, and since X-Plane 12's introduction it was grounded by the dysfunctional FMC and the lighting in being totally outdated and also non-functional.
 
Well that A380 aircraft is back, in an upgraded X-Plane 12 wrapper. This A380 XP12 is not a completely new development, it is basically the same one, and it is still Planemaker based, in that it makes the origins in the year 2013. Can a 11 year old design compete with the same today?
 
Outwardly it is different. The external model has been totally remodeled and now has 8K textures, it shows with the XP12 shine and the better detail, you can now read the textures as well, instead of the earlier ziggy buzzy lo-res images.
 

 
The Airbus A380 wing is a work of art. I have a 1-300 model of the A380 to marvel at the shape and design, it was built only 5 miles away from where I was born, my family relatives built that wing...  this area again has been remodeled, and it looks excellent in the bulky midsection and the hanging shape and design. Flaps are well done, and the leading edge foils are also well modeled.
 

 
The engines here are the Trent 900 Rolls Royce engines of 70,000 to 80,000 pounds-force (lbf), only Qantas flies the A380-842 variant, pods are well done as is the rear exhaust cones and internal fans, the 900 has a fan diameter is approximately 116 inches (294.6 cm)....  Only the inner engines (2 and 3) have reverser doors and all four engines have internal integrated drive generators (IDG).
 

 
Noticeable however is the Planemaker gap between the fan and the cowling, once seen it is very hard to unsee it. Other variants on the A388 are the A380-841 Engine Alliance GP7200 - Trent RR 970 engines and the A380-861 Rolls-Royce Trent 970 engines, which serves other airlines including the biggest 125 aircraft fleet operator Emirates (uses both 861 & 842 variants). These other variants will becoming soon to the same package, as will those engine option operators.
 
Four bogie gear is also remodeled, they now has more and quite intricate detail and better textures, the tyres are good, but are too shiny for me.
 

 
And the rear set of bogies will now turn with the nosewheel, as on the real A380.
 

 
There is no cabin, no opening doors or even any external elements? and is completely created in Planemaker...  you could call it a pure X-Plane aircraft design. Externally though it does not look out of place in X-Plane 12, the mass of the Airbus just dominates the space around it.
 
My flight today is YSSY (Sydney) to WSSS (Singapore) or QF01, the oldest sectional route on the "Kangaroo Route" to London, QF02 does the return route LON-SIN-SYD.
 

 
The actual cockpit is the originally the same, looked brilliant a decade ago, still has that same punch today, but let us be clear, the functionality needs a fair bit of work to bring it up to current standards, as a lot of the switches don't work, and some are even doing the wrong action, some doing two actions in one (lighting). There is no First Officer interaction either, or any menus in here.
 

 
The cockpit does feel great, but there are still far too many light gaps? even some shining through the OHP and mostly the lower floor and rear bulkhead, even through the OHP...   it shows of an age back then...  Seats are blocky/minecraft in design, worse is the very lo-res purple carpet, that needs replacing ASAP. Airbus joystick controller is well done, but not animated, this was all first rate detail back then, sort of holds up.
 

 
All that power at your disposal via such petit throttles, note only the twin inboard thrust reverser levers.
 

 

 
One area that has (thankfully) had attention are the instrument graphics, they used to be terribly crappy lo-res to use, even hard to read...  now they are all bright and crystal clear...
 

 
The main item that grounded the XP10/11 Peters Aircraft A380 was the outdated FMC (Flight Management Computer), it just didn't work anymore? The fix in here is quite surprising, just insert in the X-Plane generic FMC. It shouldn't work, but it does as it gives you access to routes, AIRWAYS, SID and STARS and DEP/ARR Approaches, and it pops out as well for ease of use. So it is not an Airbus FMGS installation, certainly not the later A350/A380 style FMGS.
 

 
So route setup via the standard FMC is very easy, I admit not very Airbusy, but it is functional to use with STEP to plan awkward waypoints. Maybe Peters Aircraft should switch to the default A330 FMC, it might fit in better here? What is Airbusy is the PERF setup. Again not highly detailed, but you can at least add in the numbers you want for six PERF options; T.O (TakeOff), CLB (Climb), CRZ (Cruise), DES (Descend), APPR (Approach) and GA (Go Around).
 
T.O...  You can set the FL (Flight Level), Speed Bugs (V1, VR, V2) and either TOGA or FLEX...  FLEX is recommended and is set at +45c, Flaps 1 or 2 and that gives you the THS FOR trim setting, Thrust Reduction and Acceleration altitudes can also be set. Finally you can set the Transitional Altitude, and that sets the EQ Acceleration altitude.
 


 
Other options include Cost Index (CI) and .M speed, Descent .M/knts speed, Trans, Managed Speed...  I haven't filled out the APPR tab, because I usually do that at around 100 nm before the approach to get the correct weather numbers. But OAT and QNH, either BARO or RADIO Minimums, and Trans Altitude are available You can choose between (landing ) CONF 3 or FULL flap, VAPP speed (VREF + Wind Correction), the landing speeds are then shown. GA (Go Around) speeds are also available as is the Thrust Reduction height.
 
Weight and Fuel load is done via the X-Plane "Weight & Balance" menu, basic...  Only set the "Total" fuel and don't use the individual tank sliders, then the system will set up the correct tankage for you, same with the trim as we shall see. The only other parameter to be set is the payload.
 

 
The SYD-SIN route is quite short for the A380  as this sector is a 3484 nm and 8.0 hours flying time. The Airbus A380 can do a 8,000 nm (14,800 km) range, so the tankage here is only 110,721 kg, of a gross weight TOW 437,914 kg. The A380 can therefore be far, far heavier on T.O if flying a Pacific or Europe/Asia run and that is were your "Heavy" skills comes in and the challenge of flying the Super Jumbo.
 
Pushback...  and then we can start the engines. APU (Auxiliary Power Unit) has to be running, and you select on the OHP, the APUBLEED (it is locked to Auto), then select IGN START (Engine Mode Selector) on the ENG START switch.
 

 
You start an inner engine first (2 or 3) for the pneumatics, environmental and IDG power, then the other inner engine (say 3), then engines 1 then 4.
 

 
Basically when N2 reaches around 20-25%, you can move to the next engine in the sequence, the full startup procedure is very well done as the engine goes through it's start cycle to a configured N2 55%, the lower SD (System Display) gives you more information on the vitals. Engine start up sounds are actually excellent, yes the Hager A380 doesn't have every dynamic range, but the sounds were, and are still very good, and you can (slightly) hear them from the cockpit, as your sited a long way from the noise, and it is quite muffled as well, externally they are actually very good. Your powered up and ready to go...
 
It is VERY important to set the T.O TRIM THS correctly. The position (usually around 39.5%) is set out on the lower right PFD, you will need to align the white line within the purple rectangle, certainly don't be out of the green rectangle range. The A380 is HEAVY so if the trim is out, then your not going to fly...  anywhere!
 

 
This brings us to a slightly controversial feature...   When you let off the park brake, your view will shift? to seat down. You can adjust the view up and down to see through the cockpit window but otherwise it feels frozen. You are now connected to the nosewheel steering, so if you turn the nosewheel, then your view moves left or right as well?
 

 
If you want out of this viewing tool, then press on the "Taxi" camera on the instrument panel, and your views go back to normal...
 

 
In "Taxi" mode you get a double view (tail and nosewheel) to navigate the taxiways, it is very good actually...  the same camera view can be put on the SD, but it doesn't cancel out the dynamic steering views...  The dynamic view has several parameters to having it (auto) switched ON... if the aircraft is on the ground, taxi camera is OFF, parking brake is OFF, and the aircraft is NOT in T.O mode and if in ROLL OUT mode, with when the ground speed is below 30kn.
Note that make sure you have the "Taxi" mode switched on when using push back... one you can see the pushback truck doing it's job, cool, but also that with the pushback tool turning and rattling the nosewheel, it affects the view by shaking it and turning your angle weirdly.
 

 
But on the taxiway the "Taxi" image is great for following (holding) the centre line, and it shows your current taxi speed as well. The A380 doesn't taxi...  it just rumbles along very nicely.
 

 
34L north track...  this is were I have an issue with the feature view tool, if you turn the "Taxi" off you get shakes through the steering as you move it? so you can't read the instruments....     "Taxi" on then you still can't read the instruments to take off? It needs a full kill switch!
 

 
The T.O distance depends of course on weight, airport altitude, runway conditions, but the average TO run is around 9,800 feet (3,000 meters) of runway for takeoff. So you can only use certain runways, same with using only certain taxiways with it's A380 size....  Up those four petite throttles and your moving. There is no CHRONO button (PFD)? to start? that aspect is needed, but the CHR panel does work.
 

 
Your moving, but the Airbus won't leap off the line, or move fast...  it is a strange aircraft in this respect, as everything goes into a slow motion aspect, that wing is very efficient, best in the business as it produces huge lift, so you sort of glide into the air with no dramas.
 

 
300,000 lbs of combined thrust, gives you the power you need, certainly at this lighter weight...   again the climb rate is between 2,000 fpm and 3,000 fpm depending on the load factors, but 2,000 fpm is always a good yardstick. Gear up and Flaps to position 1
 

 
Watch that complex undercarriage store itself up in the aircraft, a feat of engineering. You can check the gear condition via the lower SD display.
 

 
All Airbus developers have found a different way to imitate the Airbus button logic...  The Peters Aircraft way is for in pressing the knob, is to pull it out, or Manual operation, there is a hotspot rear above the knob (green) to push in for the Auto operation. If there is a dot on the display it is noted as being in the auto setting...
 

 
The original FBW or Fly-By-Wire is used in here. FBW takes pilot inputs, which are converted into electronic signals that are sent to flight control computers. These computers then process the inputs and send commands to the aircraft’s control surfaces. Also is it's flight envelope protection (LAWS) of Normal Law and Alternate Law. The system prevents the aircraft from exceeding operational limits, such as stall, over-speed, and over-G, enhancing overall safety.
 
 

 
The FBW in Hager's A380 is a very good one, mainly because it was created by Mr X-Plane Airbus himself or Torsten Liesk of ToLiSS. So you have the quality feel and handing of Airbus Aircraft. So the A380 here handles and flies really well, and the system has been here refined for X-Plane 12 dynamics. So the Airbus systems and logic is very high, good a decade ago, still very good today.
 

 
As noted I am under halve the range weight, so I have a lot options to climb up to my cruise altitude, in fact almost straight up to the assigned altitude. But if you are at MTOW (Maximum Takeoff Weight) then the A380 will handle very differently, not only in the initial climb, but climbing to altitude. If at MTOW, I usually climb first to about 30,000 ft, then step up the altitude to the final Cruise altitude in 2,000ft segments over 500 nm, burning off fuel and weight. It is all about efficiency
 

 
Being a long-haul, you will settle in for the "Long Haul"...  You can monitor the A380 via the excellent SD information, and overall you have 12 different options to observe; Engines, Bleed, Cabin Pressure, APU, Cond (Environment), Doors, Elec AC, Elec DC, Fuel, Hydraulics, Wheel, F/CTL (Flight Controls) and Video or Camera.
 



 
The FMC two Progress pages are now accessible as well, unlike the original...
 

 
Long-Haulers love their toys...  here you can drop the front window blinds by pressing the "HotSpot" centre window, also you can pop out the worktable with a built in (non-working) keyboard.
 

 
Performance is surprisingly very good, within and counting the same numbers as you follow the route in SimBrief, you have to make allowances for winds, which are quite heavy at the cruise altitude, but I found it was impressive and being within a 100 kg of fuel. Being a four engined aircraft...  it is the lamentable situation that the aircraft is not super efficient like the A350 or B787, it costs money to run, but it's substantial running costs are out weighed by it's immense load factors, and that the passengers adore the machine. On the right routes (a bit like Concorde) it is highly regarded, even profitable. Worse is the fact that there is nothing to replace the A380 with, as the Boeing 777X is years away, even then how are you going to replace a 100+ fleet.
 

 
You can get the most out of the A380, because the documentation from Peter Hager is excellent. Not only a deep manual (78 Pages), but there are also two detailed route tutorials. They are all the original manuals, but updated where needed for this XP12 release.
 

 
In the late afternoon sunshine, Bali, Indonesia shines below. Yes the A380 is now flying in a more realistic 3d world, X-Plane 12 can create a very different atmosphere from the one I first flew this aircraft in X-Plane 10, that cardboard look and feel is now well gone, replaced by the dynamics of the latest version of the Simulator...  it's impressive, because it is.
 

 
Now approaching the STAR of UGEB1B for the approach into Changi, Singapore at dusk...   it is a pretty time to arrive. Even using the older style of liveries, the Airbus looks very nice in the low light.
 

 
Cockpit lighting is basic...  all instrument displays are adjustable, as is the integral lighting for OHP and Pedestal. There are three STORM settings, Bright-Med-Off, that gives you the three moods in the cockpit...
 

 
The Med STORM lighting setting is fine for most night operations, including the approach and landing, it's dull enough to see everything, but not too bright to distract you. There are no spot lights or any other siding lighting in here, but it's not too bad actually in feel.
 

 
The external lighting has been upgraded to X-Plane 12, it looks good with the bloom effects, but misses the earlier better lighting that shone in the daylight, which I loved. The NAV WING, RWY Turnoff and LOGO are all under one (both) switches (NAV-LOGO), so you can't have the separated detailed lighting. STROBE, BEACON and LAND are thankfully separated, a shame as it could have been good if all the assigned switches had worked. The A380 has a brilliant lighting set up, six landing and twin wing lights will bring the aircraft alive at night.
 

 
Turning into the 20R approach, you have to set up the ILS Landing Frequency...  It's complicated here by the various ways you can insert the ILS Frequency...  There are options on the three RMP (Radio Management Panel), but also on the Co-Pilot MFD, it is also on the FMC Radio setting...   so actually which one do you use? You have to switch the NAV setting from VHF to NAV to insert the ILS Frequency as noted in the manual...  only it does not work? the only option I could get the Frequency to work with, was on the First Officer MFD lower insert 108.90 MHz 
 

 
It's tricky to get right as you have to be almost on top of the glideslope before the ILS Freq will be accepted (it bounces back to the other Freq), if accepted it is then shown in the PFD when you press the LS button right EFIS Control Panel, and it shows you the ILS name "ICH" Freq and distance to the runway...  Only now can you select the APPR button to lOC in the localiser
 

 
It's all still very old school, and even frustrating to use effectively, as there is no set the frequency and be ready for landing deal here.
 
Approach speed (Vref) is around 145 knts (FULL Flap), the A380 can be really slow on a landing approach, again you get that slow-motion effect, that gives you time to adjust before landing. In finals you can adjust down to below the 140 knt threshold...
 

 
You get all the "LOUD" callouts 2,000, 1000, 500...  but there is nothing like the thrill of landing a "Heavy" after a long flight, your nerves and muscles are tight, your focused on controlling this massive machine down onto that runway. "Retard, Retard"...
 

 
Once the AP1 clicks off, you flare the A380 slightly, so the rear bogies touch cleanly at around 130 knts. Once the nosewheel is down, you can then activate the thrust reversers, only engines 2 and 3, but it is enough to slow the bulk of the A380 down...  lighting on the ground is very good, even with the landing lights on or off.
 

 
On the roll out you have to be aware of the steering view coming activating again, and it can come in with the thud! So you quickly turn on the "Taxi" camera again to get your views back...  not a big fan to be honest.
 

 
There are two liveries provided with this RR Trent engine choice, the earlier 2016, and the current 2024 livery.
 

 
Summary
The Airbus A380 is a very large wide-body airliner that was developed and produced by Airbus. It is the world's largest passenger airliner and the only full-length double-deck jet airliner in service.
 
The origins of this Airbus A380 are over a decade old, back in the X-Plane 10 era, and the core design here is Planemaker based. The externals have however been fully redone for XP12 including quality 8K textures. So it looks very nice. The cockpit is basically the same as the earlier aircraft (XP11), but there has been added in new functionality and systems. The same original Torsten Liesk (ToLISS) plugin is still used but upgraded to X-Plane 12 dynamics, as has the overall aircraft performance (spot on). The solution to the broken FMC, was to replace it with the X-Plane default FMC, the intergration is clever and it works in giving functionality to the systems, but the A330 FMS would have have been a better more airbus style optional choice. Lighting is hampered by the switchgear, but the sounds if not dynamic are still excellent.
 
The nosewheel guided camera is a good idea, but doesn't work that well in practice, as it changes you view at critical times of the takeoff and landing roll out, it buggers up the pushback tool as well. There are no static objects, or menus here, not even a cabin. light holes in the engines, OHP and cockpit can't be unseen, but they are all related to the Planemaker foundations.
 
Flying a A380 is always a great sensation, it is a mega sized aircraft with a mega sized reputation. I am very familiar with the Peter's Aircraft A380, so fell back into the aircraft very easily, yes it is a bit of a nostalgia journey and it is great to have the aircraft flying again. Coming soon are all the different engine options and the airlines that fly them, unlike the old separated different variant purchases, and that aspect alone will put a lot of value into the package.
 
It's an Airbus A380 in X-Plane 12, long haul and X-Plane 12 dynamics together...  a great combination!
_________________________
 

 
The Airbus A380 XP12 by Peter Hager scenery is Available now from the X-Plane.Org Store here :
 
Airbus A380 XP12
Price Is US$59.90, You Save:$10.00(14%)
Retail Price:$69.90   Requirements
X-Plane 12  (not for XP11)
Windows, MAC or Linux 
8 GB+ VRAM Recommended
Download Size:  172 MB
Current version: 1.0 July 11th 2024)  
Installed in your X-Plane Aircraft folder 168Mb. Installation 305Mb,  Authorization is required by inserting a licence txt in the aircraft folder.   Documents __TUTORIAL FLIGHT PLANS
1 LFBO ILS.fms 2 LFBO RNV.fms 3 LFBOEDHI.fm _A388 ReadMe.rtf
A380_manual.pdf
 

Design by Peter Hagar
Support forum: Peter Hagar A380 XP12 _____________________
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 12.1.1.
Plugins: Traffic Global - JustFlight-Traffic (X-Plane.OrgStore) US$52.99 : Global SFD plugin US$30.00
Scenery or Aircraft
- YSSY - FlyTampa Sydney (X-Plane.OrgStore) - US$28.00
___________________________
 
Review by Stephen Dutton
22nd July 2024
Copyright©2024: X-Plane Reviews
 
(Disclaimer. All images and text in this review are the work and property of X-PlaneReviews, no sharing or copy of the content is allowed without consent from the author as per copyright conditions) All Rights Reserved