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  1. NEWS! -Aircraft Released : CRJ 1000 Series from Deltawing Simulations AD Simulations landed in X-Plane just over a year or so ago in December 2021. Their first aircraft was the CRJ-700, a regional jet airliner that was designed and manufactured by Canadian transportation conglomerate Bombardier (formerly Canadair) between 1999 and 2020. Seating ranges from 63 to 78 passengers, the -700 has three fuel/weight options: standard, ER, and LR. The ER version has an increase in fuel capacity as well as maximum weight, which in turn increases the range. A X-PlaneReviews review of the CRJ-700 is here; Aircraft Review : CRJ-700 by AD Simulations/Delta Wing A year a so on, and you have had quite a lot of significant development to the aircraft, but also there has been added the -900 version (76-90 Seats), now here is the final and longest version of the CRJ Family... the CRJ 1000. The -1000 is the largest aircraft in the CRJ family, capable of seating up to 97-104 passengers in a standard configuration. The aircraft was designed to be a stretched version of the CRJ-900, offering increased capacity and improved operating economics. The CRJ-1000 features a modern and spacious cabin with larger overhead bins and windows than previous models. It is powered by two General Electric CF34-8C5 engines, which provide improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions compared to older regional jet engines. Notable is AD Simulations ambition, now renamed DeltaWing Simulations, three aircraft released in just over one year is a massive feat, and being on the changeover from X-Plane 11 to X-Plane 12 eras, doesn't help either. But the progress has been impressive, there was a mid-life update for the both the 700/900, and everything updated will be incorporated into this newer longer CRJ-1000. First impressions in X-Plane 12 are extremely impressive, great modeling and a depth of detail... General Notes Basic Systems are programmed based on CRJ-1000 aircraft. In subsequent updates we are making systems deeper and adding new ones. CRJ real life pilots and few simulator enthusiasts are helping us to develop and make them work properly Flight Control Panel knobs support fast scrolling via left mouse button press and hold and precise scrolling via mouse wheel scroll All switches now support new manipulators with Above/Below click for UP/DOWN movement and mouse wheel scroll Mode Control Panel SPEED and other modes simulate the real Autopilot modes on the CRJs. Implemented Electrical System Circuit Breakers are all animated and ready to perform certain actions accordingly to their function in future updates Tablet/EFB on Captain and FO sides Functional Audio Control Panel with lit buttons and animations Rectangular and Arrows Flight Director Command Bars as an Options Center Glareshield All Center Glareshield Knobs and Pushbuttons animated and functional Displays Displays are exceptionally crisp and with letters and symbols easily visible PFD Primary Flight Display Modeled and functioning exactly as real life counterpart MFD Multifunction Display can display following modes HSI The horizontal situation indicator shows the compass card with overlaid selectable navaids, bearing and course pointers NAV SECTOR Navigation display with compass card and a background map. The navigation display shows course pointer and deviation bar. VOR bearing and DME distance information is shown FMS MAP Flight Management System Map shows the track and waypoints programmed in the CDU (Control Display Unit). FMS MAP shows the aircraft heading. TCAS Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System investigates the air traffic control transponders of nearby airplanes and identifies and displays potential and predicted collision threats. FMS PLAN MAP shows programmed waypoints of the route. Shows north at the top of the display. Waypoints can be selected by using UP and DOWN arrows on CDU (Control Display Unit) RADAR- to be implemented in future versions EICAS (ENGINE INDICATION AND CREW ALERTING SYSTEM Displays. Following displays can be shown using ECP (EICAS CONTROL PANEL) PRI STAT ECS HYD ELEC (AC and DC) FUEL F/CTL A/ICE DOORS CAS (not implemented yet) MENU = UP + DN STEP PopUp Displays (movable, scalable able to be dragged to multiple monitors) Tablet/EFB Captain and FO PFD (Primary Flight Display) Captain and FO MFD (Multi Function Display) Primary EICAS Secondary EICAS Left and Right CDU (Control Display Unit) Skunkcraft Updater To be implemented in the future Cockpit and Cabin Lighting There is FULL lighting implemented, FLOOD, INTEGRATED and DISPLAYS with animated knobs and switches You can adjust the intensity of displays, panels and light in any combination you like In addition, CABIN LIGHTS and STAIR LIGHTS are also adjustable via corresponding switches in the back of the cockpit STERILE Cockpit Light working (visible from inside the cabin when cockpit door is closed) AD Simulations CRJ-900 Cabin is using the option called “Atmosphere”It provides Button to adjust DOOR ASSIST, CEILING, SIDEWALL and ENTRANCE Lights. Using combination of different lighting conditions creates different look You can adjust Cabin and Stairs lights using Buttons on the right wall looking toward cabin External Lighting FULL external lighting is available via animated corresponding switches Tablet/EFB and it's corresponding Pop Up DOOR HANDLING PASSENGERS LOAD FUEL LOAD SETTINGS (COLD AND DARK, READY TO TAXI, EXTERNAL POWER) INFO (Loading Take Off Speeds, Landing Speeds and take Off Trim) Sounds FMOD Custom sounds are implemented using FMOD Engine sounds Cockpit sounds: Avionics, Gyro, Relays, Fans (Packs), Controls (Buttons/switches, levers) Warning sounds: Take-off GPWS (Too Low Terrain, Too Low Gear, Too Low Flaps, Terrain Caution, Bank angle, Sink rate, Don’t-sink, Pull Up) Autopilot, Fire, Alerts Cabin sounds: Galley, Cooling Exterior sounds: Gear Roll/Touch, APU, GPU, Flaps, Hydraulic and Fuel Pumps, Wind drag, Packs Weather sounds: Wind, Rain, Thunder, Wind Gust (on the ground only) Cabin and Cockpit muffing effect caused by Cockpit Door closed/open Flight Model Flight model has been carefully adjusted to match the real life CRJ-900. Real life CRJ-200/700/900 pilots were involved in the process. Realistic wing flex Wing Flex has been modelled and adjusted for realistic aircraft behavior FMS FMS and it's Pop Up is customized as far as look but based on the Default X-Plane one. Note: Default XP FMC is based on the Collins FMS-4200 and CRJ is using that one, no Honeywell and Thales types. 3D Modeling and Textures Almost all maps are 4K High Resolution Exterior is modeled with all details existing in real aircraft. Pilots are visible in external views and turn their heads slightly to ward camera view Interior modeling has been made paying attention to details in the real life CRJ-900 cockpit. Cabin and Stairs have adjustable lighting, see above Liveries included in the package are listed below Aegean Airlines, American Eagle, CRJ, Delta, Horizon, IBEX Ana, Lufthansa, Scandinavian 1, Scandinavian 2, Spirit Unique Package Features Stairs Rails can be raised and lowered (per customer request) Cockpit shaders slide and rotate as you need them All Windows Shades, Overhead Bins and Seat Trays are animated and functional VR Compatibility Package is VR compatible Notable is that all RJ-700 and -900 customers can get the CRJ-900 for 30% off. You can find the discount coupon in the original CRJ-700 or -900 invoices at the store. Also both X-Plane 11 and X-Plane 12 versions are available in the package. Designed by Deltawing Simulations Support forum for the CRJ-1000 About the team: https://deltawingsim.com/ _____________________ Yes! the CRJ-1000 by Delta Wing Simulations is NOW available from the X-Plane.Org Store here : CRJ-1000 Price is US$49.95 Requirements X-Plane 12 or X-Plane 11 (both versions available) X-Plane 12 Only (not for XP11) Windows, Mac or Linux 4 GB VRAM Minimum - 8 GB+ VRAM Recommended Download Size: 1 GB Current version: 1.0 (March 8th 2023) CRJ-700 and -900 customers can get the CRJ-900 for 30% off. Please find the discount coupon in the original CRJ-700 or -900 invoices at the store ________________ News by Stephen Dutton 10th March 2023 Copyright©2023: X-Plane Reviews Disclaimer. All images and text in this review are the work and property of X-PlaneReviews, no sharing or copy of the content is allowed without consent from the author as per copyright conditions) All Right Reserved.
  2. NEWS! - AD Simulations updates CRJ 700 and CRJ 900 to X-Plane 12 Both the DeltaWing / AD Simulations CRJ Series aircraft are now usable in X-Plane 12. With the CRJ 900 you can get a "Skunkcraft" configuration file to up date via the Skunkcraft updater and just add the cfg into the main CRJ 900 aircraft folder. I couldn't however find the same config file for the CRJ 700?, so you need to do a new download directly from the X-Plane.OrgStore. Notable is that both aircraft for X-Plane 12 can both be also now downloaded from the X-Plane.OrgStore. It is also still a good idea to run the Skunkworks Beta on both aircraft to get the latest updated files. There has been no additional changes to the aircraft. Note this is just a patch phase and not a fully configured X-Plane 12 aircraft for the currently running X-Plane 12 Beta. Still both CRJs look excellent in the new X-Plane 12 version, cockpits are a bit dark though? Both CRJ aircraft can be purchased through the X-Plane.OrgStore, details below. _____________________ Yes! the CRJ-700 by AD Simulations/Delta Wing is NOW available from the X-Plane.Org Store here : CRJ-700 Price is US$49.95 Rquirements X-Plane 12 or X-Plane 11 (both versions available) Windows, Mac or Linux 4 GB VRAM Minimum - 8 GB+ VRAM Recommended Download Size: 893 MB Current version: XP11: 1.2.0 (July 3rd 2022) XP12 beta; September 26th 2022 Yes! the CRJ-900 by AD Simulations/Delta Wing is NOW available from the X-Plane.Org Store here : CRJ-900 Price is US$49.95 Requirements X-Plane 12 or X-Plane 11 (both versions available) Windows, Mac or Linux 4 GB VRAM Minimum - 8 GB+ VRAM Recommended Download Size: 1.1 GB Current version: XP11: 1.2.0 (July 3rd 2022) XP12 beta; September 26th 2022 ________________ News by Stephen Dutton 28th September 2022 Copyright©2022: 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.
  3. Aircraft Review : CRJ-900 by AD Simulations/Delta Wing At Christmas 2021, AD Simulations a new developer studio released their version of the CRJ-700 for the X-Plane Simulator. X-Plane has long needed these excellent regional jets, that grew out out Bombardier's already successful Private Jet Challenger range. Modeling and features are exceptional, all the better for the high value price of being under US$50, but being new and straight out of the box the aircraft's performance and it's flight characteristic areas was at the time a little lacking. The CRJ project had started earlier with Supercritical Simulations Group banner (SSG), but a breakup a year earlier saw the development teams all take off in all their own different directions, and that aspect showed a little on the development front on release. AD Simulations was then joined up with an old experienced X-Plane developer by the name of DeltaWing, and he quickly brought a lot of his developer talents to the aircraft to sort out the important better flight performance and give the aircraft the Kudos it really deserved, hence came the quick succession of those five updates since that late 2021 release to this late April date, and to bring the -700 aircraft to the successful product it now is, and all those aspects have been transferred directly to this newer release, so -900 should be good straight out of the box. That is a lot of story for just only a few months, but more was offered in that AD Simulations has now released the larger CRJ-900 (type certified as the CL-600-2024), and the even larger CRJ-1000 is also promised in the future. It is not hard to imagine if you already own the earlier CRJ-700, on what the -900 version has to offer. For basically it is the same aircraft, with just the bit longer 12ft twin plug longer fuselage than the CRJ-700 Series. The -900 however has the more up-rated General Electric CF34-8C5 powerplants with 14,510 lbf (64.5 kN) thrust each with APR. The earlier GE CF34-8C5B1 had only 13,790 lbf (61.3 kN) available. The seating capacity goes up as well to 76–90 seats compared to the -700 66 to 78 seating layout. Externally the -900 Series is very much in the same high quality modeling and the detail driven aspect as the earlier -700, no surprise there as they are only months, and not years apart in design and development. It is an odd business, the original design (in this case the -700) was proportioned correctly, but add in a plug or two and in making it longer, somehow makes the -900 look even more perfect, the CRJ-1000 will probably look a bit too over long and out of proportion, so it is a bit of a goldilocks thing of the -900 being or looking "Just right". The only area different externally from the -700 (besides the length) is that the winglets are taller and more raked, again nicely done here with that same excellent metal leading edge detail. Landing gear, GE CF34 Engine Pods, leading and rear edge wing quality and all that detail is still stupendous, the quality delivered here is certainly far better than some of the aircraft in the higher and far more expensive catagories, from this value price. Cockpit window tint, was and still is a bit too dark for me (other users are not crazy either), but it is well done, as are the side windows in quality and reflection. All doors, including the main left stairs, Twin mid-fuselage Baggage holds, Rear high Baggage hold and right side Service Door all open and are extremely well and are highly animated and detailed. Like the -700, don't go looking for the extreme features here, like you will get on the Q4XP. There are no static elements, loading animations, but there is a nice GPU (Ground Power unit). I expect the GHD plugin will as with -700 make up a lot of those missing elements, however the stair rails drop down for the use of an Airbridge. Cabin The biggest area of difference between the -700 and the -900 is in the cabin, not the obvious longer length, but in the slightly different feel and style inside. Business forward seats have a seat back blue pattern design that is really classy, and far, far better than the light tan in the -700 . The main economy section has another blue design, but cloth this time instead of the black vinyl seating that made the -700 cabin a bit dark, it all works extremely better in this cabin.... And I really like this cabin. On the -900 there has also been added in new cabin animations (I expect the -700 to get the same treatment in a future update?). The seatback trays can now be lowered (always a favorite of mine) via the tray catch and the so you can also lower the window blinds, however you have get very close to the shade to make it work, as they can't be one by one adjusted from a distance?. Overhead bins also now open as well (very nice) via the handles and the overhead panel detail is just sublime. With the CRJ-700 in it's 1.01 update there was a highly detailed and animated rear bathroom (See CRJ-700 Review). It's here in the -900 version as well, but I found a boundary layer didn't allow me inside like on the -700?. But it is there. With the extra length however of the -900 you also get an extra toilet forward, it is as detailed as the rear installation. With toilet flush, animated seating and clever door latches and closed door lighting. Handy to use just before landing than walking to the back of the aircraft. The front galley area was sensational on the -700. It is the same here (with a few new additions) in the -900... and it is a very highly realistic working area. Again both the rear and front crew jumpseats can be animated out for use. Lighting On the -700 the cabin lighting was two crude lighting adjustable knobs on the rear cockpit bulkhead, we always knew they were there just as a temporary fixup job. One of the main features on the CRJ-900 is the cabin lighting panel forward upper left. In fact there are two lighting panels, one for the Cabin and one for the Galley. With all the lighting switched off, you get this nice blue aisle emergency strip lighting, There are a few overhead central lights, but they are quite if very weak and non-adjustable which feels like a wasted opportunity? The emergency EXIT lights are on and look great.. There is "Door Assist", that lights up the entrance area, and the lights in the stairs (but again they are not very bright). The "Ceiling Lighting" which switches on the main reflective ceiling lighting, comes in two options "Full" and "Dim". But the "Dim" option is not that much lower than the "Full" option? Next you have the "Sidewall Lighting", that gives off a very blue "Atmosphere" style of lighting, again in "Full" and "Dim" modes. Combining both the "Ceiling" and "Sidewall" options with "Full" and "Dim" it can give you four different types of light pastel purple colour gradients... Last lighting option is the "Entrance Lighting", again in "Full" and "Dim" but again the contrast was not as wide or felt realistic between the settings. On the Galley Panel there is the "Galley Lights", again in "Full" and "Dim" modes... The ceiling Galley Lights and their reflections don't look very realistic or even plausible at all here, it feels like the wrong sort of idea for the lighting? You understand what the developer is trying to achieve, but it doesn't work at all in this context, mainly because the light reflected is the wrong tone of the light fittings, plus the lighting fittings are really awful and look just as horrible. Oddly the same idea worked so well in the -700, but not in here. Notable are the excellent "Potable Water System" lights, which are switchable on/off. There are "Reading Lights", Test and Reset (that all don't work) and "AFT ATT Reading Light" that I also couldn't see how it worked either or where the light(s) was... All the panel lights also don't light up to their setting (on/off) either. Turn on all the lighting options, and it does look really very effective... .... but overall the individual elements don't work separately enough to be totally realistic when used in their own context. And you lose those really nice down passenger seat lights that were in the -700, and to pick I liked the -700 cabin lighting more that the -900. So overall the lighting needs more far work to be really realistic and the tone needs to be... well "Toned down a bit". For currently it is feeling it is falling a little bit short of its potential or it could be still a WIP (Work in Progress), of which in non-working areas stand out as the main reason. A small note is that the boundaries are very tight in here, I have already noted the rear toilet, but also manoeuvring around the galley area and cockpit entrance was almost impossible, I didn't have that tight experience on the -700. Cockpit The cockpit is identical to the -700, so if you are used to that aircraft, then everything will be perfectly familiar here. Cross Crew Qualification (CCQ) or common type-rating between the three different sized CRJ's is minimal here, as that was focus of Bombardier's design brief. The cockpit looks and feels quite exceptional, because it is all so beautifully done, with just the right amount of wear and tear for ultimate realism. There was a full cockpit description in the CRJ-700 Review. So there is no reason here to double that aspect up... But there are some differences between the versions. All the switches now support new manipulators with Above/Below click for UP/DOWN movement and mouse wheel scroll, and they are certainly far better to use and sound (clicky) far better as well. One new feature noted was that there is now a display knob on all the displays. This will turn on/off each individual display and adjust the display's brightness, but it still didn't work in my current v1.0.1 version, but expect that functionality soon in an update. Tablet Menu AD SImulation's Menu system is still currently quite basic and again almost a replica of the -700. There is however now two tablets on each of the pilots side. And like the window blinds you can still move it left and right along a track for the right position that you personally like.... and the tablet can also be stowed downwards (via the top little stick). You turn the tablet on via the button hotspot, and if you press the AD Simulations logo you get the window pop-out option. There are SEVEN icon menu options. The first icon box is the default blank screen and not counted here.... in order; DOOR HANDLING, COCKPIT, PASSENGERS, (ICON not currently active?), FUEL LOAD, SETTINGS and INFO. DOOR HANDLING : There are four doors on the CRJ-900 that can be opened from the menu. Passenger Door (front left), Service Door (front right), Cargo Centre Door and the upper Aft Cargo door. COCKPIT : In the cockpit menu you can select to start up "COLD and DARK" or "READY to TAXI" or the aircraft completely shutdown or completely powered up and ready for flight. Missing again is the wanted state of "Turnaround", which remembers the last situation of the aircraft and an aircraft state option I mostly use? A lot of settings are kept to use from flight to flight, but not the important ones (Fuel, Passengers.... etc ). "USE EXTERNAL POWER" places a very nice and connected GPU (Ground Power Unit) outside to the right of the aircraft. PASSENGERS : You can load the amount of passengers via the central slider which is/was totally impossible to use. Thankfully rectified in v1.01 of the -700, AD Sim then gave you the option to input the passenger count directly... again a big improvement of a critical loading tool in the new aircraft, but there are still no Cargo or Payload options. FUEL LOAD : Unlike the early -700 version, you can now add in (thankfully) the Fuel numbers directly for each wing and the centre tank, and that input is shown in the lower right of the menu screen, this area can also be used directly to put in the "TOTAL FUEL WEIGHT" if you want a quick and easy option. Both Lbs and Kgs are available as your fuel load options via the INFO Page. What there is still missing however really is a quality BALANCE and FUEL page for both the PASSENGERS and FUEL weight inputs, as for what is shown here is still all very basic and the weights come with no Centre of Gravity graph or numbers like ZFW (Zero Fuel Weight). SETTINGS : The SETTINGS menu page has three menu selections; GLASSES, SOUNDS and MISC. GLASSES; changes the tint and reflection options for both the cockpit windows and displays. SOUNDS and MISC; The SOUNDS page gives you five sliders covering; EXTERIOR ENGINES, INTERIOR ENGINES, WIND EFFECT, WEATHER & EXT ENV (Environment) and finally Cockpit and Cabin (sounds). The sliders can again be tricky to use and mouse scrolling is the best way of using the sliders, otherwise the settings will jump to the wrong choice? MISC is the only menu option change between the -700 and the -900. Gone are the "FLY BY WIRE" or "SIMULATION" options, to be replaced by three new options of; PDF ARROW ATTITUDE INDICATOR, USER'S VIEW (Captain, First Officer or Observer) and if you use the Alpha Flight Controls Honeycomb Yoke, as it needed a separate input connection for the aircraft, the developer also noted to, "to turn on all avionics switches, otherwise it will not power the avionics". INFO : The menu "Information" page shows you your WEIGHT with Left Wing/Centre/Right Wing Fuel quantity, TOTAL FUEL, PASSENGERS and the TOTAL WEIGHT (TOW) lower. This will compute your Takeoff and Landing VRefs and STAB TRIM, and you can load these parameters directly into the system. You can also here change from Kg to Lbs. No doubt the Tablet Menu still has a lot lacking for such an important tool, for instance there is no AviTab intergration, which is a must have on and for aircraft of this category. Flying the CRJ-900 I am going to fly the same EKCH (Copenhagen) to EGLL (Heathrow) route as I did in the CRJ-700 and compare the differences. Time for pushback... I have never gelled to the fuel shutoff levers, got used to them, but never really loved them... no, not at all. You just don't feel that click, clacky switch feel, and you don't know if they are locked (down?) or up or not... really I still don't like them. Your also still stuck with the really laborious to set up and not very exact Laminar Default FMS, a poor PLAN Mode setting in the MAP/MFD does not help you no end either. AD SImulation's notes that a custom FMS is going to be done for all the Ad Simulations CRJ versions, the sooner the better. A late but welcome addition on the -700 and also now on the -900 is a working Clock/Chronometer, here it is finally nice to log your flying time. I tested the updated CRJ-700 in the v1.1.2 update just a week ago. Personally I was not over thrilled with the Tiller steering. The -700 wandered all over the taxiway, even without moving the tiller wheel? Here however I find the nosewheel far more better at staying and tracking to the centre line and far more to my liking, it is a marked improvement over the other aircraft... does the longer fuselage length help? Maybe, but it is certainly far better in tracking straight. Ready to go and the clock (is finally) running... Push up the throttles and "Boy" do you feel that extra thrust... yes I am in a bigger aircraft, yes I am a heavier weight, but the upgraded CF34-8C5s with thier 14,510 lbf (64.5 kN) of thrust will give you a right kick in the back, and your soon at the rotate speed of 181 knts. Calling out "Positive Climb", and your powering up very quickly... climb rate is the same 3500 fpm maximum, but on average you will initially still do the 3000 fpm, reducing down to 2300fpm at around 12,000ft... just like in the -700, but you get there faster. I am going to admit, I love the -900 version a lot, it feels the more balanced and comes with a better feeling in it's handling than the -700, that extra length make a whole lot of difference were it counts... that is behind the controls and the way the aircraft behaves in the air. The CRJ-900 looks nicer in the air as well... and you notice that extra length. The CRJ900 can cruise 8–10,000 ft higher with a slightly higher fuel burn and with an average true airspeed of 450–500 knots, which is a significant improvement over its predecessor. So altitudes of 40,000ft are easily acquired, full service ceiling is still 41,000 ft / 12,479 m. Today I am going for FL400, 40,000ft (via SimBrief) and the CRJ doesn't flinch at climbing hard up to that high altitude. First FL360, then steps of 1,000ft to to FL400, "Easy". Maximum speed is 0.82 Mach (470 kn, 871 km/h), actually slightly slower than the -700 at 0.825 Mach (473 kn, 876 km/h), but around 0.76m or 0.78m is your usual Cruise speed depending on the weight. Range is 1,553 NM / 2,876 km (LR)1,622 NM / 3,004 km. It is nice up here at FL400... Internal lighting is basically the same as the -700, in other words very if extremely good in the cockpit... The ten dropdown lights for the side panels and the centre main instrument panel are still glorious, and so are the two animated spotlights either side of the OHP Console, which are animated and adjustable... but they are still very hard to actually manoeuvre with your mouse (moving left to right is via your scroll). There is also the rear spotlight over the cockpit entrance. The DOME lighting only covers the front section of the cockpit lighting, very nice, but still quite dark for working inflight. If you want a brightly lit cockpit then the each far side LIGHTING panel gives you that per side lighting option and all very good is. The cabin is really to your taste, in the dark it looks a bit lurid, even at all the low "DIM" settings. Switching off the sidewall lighting does make it look and feel more realistically softer. Externally the bight tinted hues show as well, in creating a very bright cabin externally, otherwise all the external lighting is all very good in tail, wing, navigation, (nice) strobes and some great looking landing lights to complete the perfect detail. Time to go down... I will use most of the English Channel to descend from 40,000ft (FL400) to 6,000ft (FL60) as it is a long way down, so you need the space to descend, so my descent starts at IDRID, at a minus 2,300fpm. I can now assign the landing vRef speeds from the INFO part of the menu into the PFD for landing. What would London be without soft foggy cloudy conditions, it lives up to it's reputation... again. Coming into Heathrow from the west (Rwy 27R) is always a messy approach,it is a lot of fiddling and twisting to miss the central city part of London.. ... so it is always going to a full on manual approach, the FMS routing is too complicated to edit to get perfectly right. Get in the groove and it is a thrilling thing, but getting your speeds and flap settings done as early as possible is extremely important, in other words "get the aircraft sorted". In the final approach phase it is all about the speed, speed and speed, not dropping too fast or going in too slow, it is harder to do than what you think it is... ... 110 knts sounds slow, but it feels very fast in this aircraft. Steady, steady... you have to get the landing just right in the flare, and then the need to BANG the rear gear down HARD on to the runway, if you don't the thrust reversers won't engage. And you are also very aware of that higher longer nose than with the -700. the length is noticeable on turning as well and in the taxiing manoeuvres.... Welcome to London. Liveries There is not as many liveries with the CRJ-900 as there was with the CRJ-700 and also only a few odd different airline changes. So there is here only eleven to the seventeen provided with the former aircraft. But like with the -700 we are quite sure the painters will have a field day in providing most liveries that you will require for the -900 version. These like on the -700 are excellent. __________________ Summary Just a few months ago at Christmas 2021, AD Simulations released a Bombardier CRJ-700 for the X-Plane Simulator, now only in April 2022, along here comes the longer CRJ-900 version, and a CRJ-1000 is also promised coming later. The CRJ-900 is a 12 ft (Twin-Plugged) stretch of the CRJ-700, with a bigger seating capacity of 76–90 seats. It has the uprated CF34-8C5 powerplants as well to fly higher and in most aspects faster. The AD Simulations CRJ-700 was and is sensationally modeled and designed, and there is nothing lacking in that department here either. The cockpit and it's intricate details are almost exactly the same, except for a small change on the INFO page in the menu. Externally the modeling is totally superb, and highly detailed, but there are few ground features except for a GPU. A note that in the changes or extras It is in the rear cabin that we find the biggest differences between the two aircraft. The Seating design is different and nicely coloured, and far better than the darker -700 version, and you get a forward detailed toilet now as well as the one at the rear. You also get animated sliding window blinds, opening baggage lockers and drop down meal trays. There is now also two new lighting panels, one for the cabin and one for the galley. The lighting panels will give you lighting options including the "Atmosphere" look of a pastel purple flavour in "Full" or "Dim" modes, and the original roof grey colouring is still there if you prefer that style. The Galley lighting is not as successful and is far better on the -700, but the galley itself is excellent. A note that in the changes or extras installed in the -900, will also be developed into the -700 version as well, including the animated cabin fittings and lighting. I find the CRJ-900 a more sweeter aircraft to fly than the -700, it climbs faster as well, and I think the extra length is a major bonus and not ungainly at all... In other words I like it far more to fly than the CRJ-700. But my guess is that most users will purchase both aircraft anyway and enjoy not only the small differences, but the slightly different styles as well. As CRJ-700 customers can get the CRJ-900 for 30% off the CRJ-900 via a discount coupon. What you you don't get a lot of extra or features like you do with say FlyJSim and others, but then again this is a sub-US$50 aircraft and in a lower category, and for what you do get here it is simply brilliant value. Current users already are devoted to the AD Simulation's CRJ Series, and this -900 version just adds into the fun... Recommended. _____________________ Yes! the CRJ-900 by AD Simulations/Delta Wing is NOW available from the X-Plane.Org Store here : CRJ-900 Price is US$49.95 Features General Notes Basic Systems are programmed based on CRJ-900 aircraft. In subsequent updates we are making systems deeper and adding new ones. CRJ real life pilots and few simulator enthusiasts are helping us to develop and make them work properly Flight Control Panel knobs support fast scrolling via left mouse button press and hold and precise scrolling via mouse wheel scroll All switches now support new manipulators with Above/Below click for UP/DOWN movement and mouse wheel scroll Mode Control Panel SPEED and other modes simulate the real Autopilot modes on the CRJs. Implemented Electrical System Circuit Breakers are all animated and ready to perform certain actions accordingly to their function in future updates Tablet/EFB on Captain and FO sides Functional Audio Control Panel with lit buttons and animations Rectangular and Arrows Flight Director Command Bars as an Options Center Glareshield All Center Glareshield Knobs and Pushbuttons animated and functional Displays Displays are exceptionally crisp and with letters and symbols easily visible PFD Primary Flight Display Modeled and functioning exactly as real life counterpart MFD Multifunction Display can display following modes HSI The horizontal situation indicator shows the compass card with overlaid selectable navaids, bearing and course pointers NAV SECTOR Navigation display with compass card and a background map. The navigation display shows course pointer and deviation bar. VOR bearing and DME distance information is shown FMS MAP Flight Management System Map shows the track and waypoints programmed in the CDU (Control Display Unit). FMS MAP shows the aircraft heading. TCAS Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System investigates the air traffic control transponders of nearby airplanes and identifies and displays potential and predicted collision threats. FMS PLAN MAP shows programmed waypoints of the route. Shows north at the top of the display. Waypoints can be selected by using UP and DOWN arrows on CDU (Control Display Unit) RADAR- to be implemented in future versions EICAS (ENGINE INDICATION AND CREW ALERTING SYSTEM Displays. Following displays can be shown using ECP (EICAS CONTROL PANEL) PRI STAT ECS HYD ELEC (AC and DC) FUEL F/CTL A/ICE DOORS CAS (not implemented yet) MENU = UP + DN STEP PopUp Displays (movable, scalable able to be dragged to multiple monitors) Tablet/EFB Captain and FO PFD (Primary Flight Display) Captain and FO MFD (Multi Function Display) Primary EICAS Secondary EICAS Left and Right CDU (Control Display Unit) Skunkcraft Updater To be implemented in the future Cockpit and Cabin Lighting There is FULL lighting implemented, FLOOD, INTEGRATED and DISPLAYS with animated knobs and switches You can adjust the intensity of displays, panels and light in any combination you like In addition, CABIN LIGHTS and STAIR LIGHTS are also adjustable via corresponding switches in the back of the cockpit STERILE Cockpit Light working (visible from inside the cabin when cockpit door is closed) AD Simulations CRJ-900 Cabin is using the option called “Atmosphere”It provides Button to adjust DOOR ASSIST, CEILING, SIDEWALL and ENTRANCE Lights. Using combination of different lighting conditions creates different look You can adjust Cabin and Stairs lights using Buttons on the right wall looking toward cabin External Lighting FULL external lighting is available via animated corresponding switches Tablet/EFB and it's corresponding Pop Up DOOR HANDLING PASSENGERS LOAD FUEL LOAD SETTINGS (COLD AND DARK, READY TO TAXI, EXTERNAL POWER) INFO (Loading Take Off Speeds, Landing Speeds and take Off Trim) Sounds FMOD Custom sounds are implemented using FMOD Engine sounds Cockpit sounds: Avionics, Gyro, Relays, Fans (Packs), Controls (Buttons/switches, levers) Warning sounds: Take-off GPWS (Too Low Terrain, Too Low Gear, Too Low Flaps, Terrain Caution, Bank angle, Sink rate, Don’t-sink, Pull Up) Autopilot, Fire, Alerts Cabin sounds: Galley, Cooling Exterior sounds: Gear Roll/Touch, APU, GPU, Flaps, Hydraulic and Fuel Pumps, Wind drag, Packs Weather sounds: Wind, Rain, Thunder, Wind Gust (on the ground only) Cabin and Cockpit muffing effect caused by Cockpit Door closed/open Flight Model Flight model has been carefully adjusted to match the real life CRJ-900. Real life CRJ-200/700/900 pilots were involved in the process. Realistic wing flex Wing Flex has been modelled and adjusted for realistic aircraft behavior FMS FMS and it's Pop Up is customized as far as look but based on the Default X-Plane one. Note: Default XP FMC is based on the Collins FMS-4200 and CRJ is using that one, no Honeywell and Thales types. 3D Modeling and Textures Almost all maps are 4K High Resolution Exterior is modeled with all details existing in real aircraft. Pilots are visible in external views and turn their heads slightly to ward camera view Interior modeling has been made paying attention to details in the real life CRJ-900 cockpit. Cabin and Stairs have adjustable lighting, see above Liveries included in the package are listed below Aegean Airlines, American Eagle, CRJ, Delta, Horizon, IBEX Ana, Lufthansa, Scandinavian 1, Scandinavian 2, Spirit Unique Package Features Stairs Rails can be raised and lowered (per customer request) Cockpit shaders slide and rotate as you need them All Windows Shades, Overhead Bins and Seat Trays are animated and functional VR Compatibility Package is VR compatible but future enhancements will be added Requirements X-Plane 11 Windows, Mac or Linux 4 GB VRAM Minimum - 8 GB+ VRAM Recommended Download Size: 1.1 GB Current version: 1.0.1 (April 25th 2022) CRJ-700 customers can get the CRJ-900 for 30% off. Please find the discount coupon in the original CRJ-700 invoice at the store Installation Download of the CRJ-900 is 1.07GB and it is installed in your Airliner Folder as a 1.57Gb folder. Activation is via the standard authentication Key. There is no Auto-updater by Skunkcrafts for updates, so currently you have to redownload any updates via the X-Plane.OrgStore. Documents Provided are two documents Included with the package. A "QuickStart" Manual that covers the aircraft's layouts and systems, and a "Checklist" with Normal Procedures. A version changelog is also provided. CRJ-900 Changelog.txt AD_Sim_CRJ_Checklist.pdf CRJ-900_Quick_Start_Guide.pdf CRJ-900 Changelog.txt _____________________ Aircraft Review by Stephen Dutton 28th April 2022 Copyright©2022: X-Plane Reviews Review System Specifications:  Computer System: Windows -S1700 Core i7 12700K 12 Core 3.60 GHz CPU / 64bit -32 Gb single 1067 Mhz DDR4 2133 - ASUS GeForce GTX 1080 8Gb - Samsung Evo M2 2TB SSD - Sound : Yamaha Speakers YST-M200SP Software: - Windows 10 - X-Plane 11.55 Plugins: Global SFD plugin US$30.00 : Environment Engine by xEnviro US$69.90 : RK Apps XPRealistic v2 - US$34.99 Scenery or Aircraft - EKCH - FlyTampa Copenhagen XP (X-Plane.OrgStore) - US$31.00 - EGLL - Airport London-Heathrow by Aerosoft (X-Plane.OrgStore) - US$29.95 (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
  4. NEWS! - Aircraft Released : CRJ-900 by AD Simulations AD Simulations have released another variant of their Bombardier CRJ series in the -900. The -900 is not the longest in the CRJ Series as that ticket goes to the -1000, of which AD Simulations notes could also be a release in the future as well. The CRJ-900 joins the earlier CRJ-700 that was released at Christmas 2021 with plenty of bugs and issues, those issues have been very well covered in the past few months, so hopefully this later -900 will be far more a coherent and capable release aircraft straight out of the box than the -700 version. From the outset, the -900 certainly looks more complete and better featured. The -900 version comes in at the same price as the -700 at US$49.95, but for current -700 purchasers the aircraft comes with a 30% discount (US$34.96), the discount discount coupon is available to be found in the original CRJ-700 invoice at the store. There are newer features on the -900 to make the differences to -700 version, these include that the CRJ900 is powered by the more powererful two FADEC equipped General Electric CF34-8C5 powerplants with 59.4 kN (13,400 lbf) thrust each with APR. The aircraft has also the longer winglets and a 12ft twin plug longer fuselage than the CRJ-700 Series, with an increased seating capacity of 76–90 seats compared to the -700 66 to 78 seating layout. The CRJ900 can cruise 8–10,000 ft higher with a slightly higher fuel burn and an average true airspeed of 450–500 knots, which is a significant improvement over its predecessor. Its maximum ground takeoff weight is 84,500 pounds. AD Simulations CRJ-900 Cabin is now using the new option called “Atmosphere”. This provides Button control to adjust DOOR ASSIST, CEILING, SIDEWALL and ENTRANCE Lights. Using a combination of the different lighting conditions this panel creates different cabin style lighting looks. Other new features include; Cabin and Stairs lighting using Buttons on the right wall looking towards the cabin, and all the Windows Shades, Overhead Bins and Seat Trays are now animated and functional. Full release notes are: General Notes Basic Systems are programmed based on CRJ-900 aircraft. In subsequent updates we are making systems deeper and adding new ones. CRJ real life pilots and few simulator enthusiasts are helping us to develop and make them work properly Flight Control Panel knobs support fast scrolling via left mouse button press and hold and precise scrolling via mouse wheel scroll All switches now support new manipulators with Above/Below click for UP/DOWN movement and mouse wheel scroll Mode Control Panel SPEED and other modes simulate the real Autopilot modes on the CRJs. Implemented Electrical System Circuit Breakers are all animated and ready to perform certain actions accordingly to their function in future updates Tablet/EFB on Captain and FO sides Functional Audio Control Panel with lit buttons and animations Rectangular and Arrows Flight Director Command Bars as an Options Center Glareshield All Center Glareshield Knobs and Pushbuttons animated and functional Displays Displays are exceptionally crisp and with letters and symbols easily visible PFD Primary Flight Display Modeled and functioning exactly as real life counterpart MFD Multifunction Display can display following modes HSI The horizontal situation indicator shows the compass card with overlaid selectable navaids, bearing and course pointers NAV SECTOR Navigation display with compass card and a background map. The navigation display shows course pointer and deviation bar. VOR bearing and DME distance information is shown FMS MAP Flight Management System Map shows the track and waypoints programmed in the CDU (Control Display Unit). FMS MAP shows the aircraft heading. TCAS Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System investigates the air traffic control transponders of nearby airplanes and identifies and displays potential and predicted collision threats. FMS PLAN MAP shows programmed waypoints of the route. Shows north at the top of the display. Waypoints can be selected by using UP and DOWN arrows on CDU (Control Display Unit) RADAR- to be implemented in future versions EICAS (ENGINE INDICATION AND CREW ALERTING SYSTEM Displays. Following displays can be shown using ECP (EICAS CONTROL PANEL) PRI STAT ECS HYD ELEC (AC and DC) FUEL F/CTL A/ICE DOORS CAS (not implemented yet) MENU = UP + DN STEP PopUp Displays (movable, scalable able to be dragged to multiple monitors) Tablet/EFB Captain and FO PFD (Primary Flight Display) Captain and FO MFD (Multi Function Display) Primary EICAS Secondary EICAS Left and Right CDU (Control Display Unit) Skunkcraft Updater To be implemented in the future Cockpit and Cabin Lighting There is FULL lighting implemented, FLOOD, INTEGRATED and DISPLAYS with animated knobs and switches You can adjust the intensity of displays, panels and light in any combination you like In addition, CABIN LIGHTS and STAIR LIGHTS are also adjustable via corresponding switches in the back of the cockpit STERILE Cockpit Light working (visible from inside the cabin when cockpit door is closed) AD Simulations CRJ-900 Cabin is using the option called “Atmosphere”It provides Button to adjust DOOR ASSIST, CEILING, SIDEWALL and ENTRANCE Lights. Using combination of different lighting conditions creates different look You can adjust Cabin and Stairs lights using Buttons on the right wall looking toward cabin External Lighting FULL external lighting is available via animated corresponding switches Tablet/EFB and it's corresponding Pop Up DOOR HANDLING PASSENGERS LOAD FUEL LOAD SETTINGS (COLD AND DARK, READY TO TAXI, EXTERNAL POWER) INFO (Loading Take Off Speeds, Landing Speeds and take Off Trim) Sounds FMOD Custom sounds are implemented using FMOD Engine sounds Cockpit sounds: Avionics, Gyro, Relays, Fans (Packs), Controls (Buttons/switches, levers) Warning sounds: Take-off GPWS (Too Low Terrain, Too Low Gear, Too Low Flaps, Terrain Caution, Bank angle, Sink rate, Don’t-sink, Pull Up) Autopilot, Fire, Alerts Cabin sounds: Galley, Cooling Exterior sounds: Gear Roll/Touch, APU, GPU, Flaps, Hydraulic and Fuel Pumps, Wind drag, Packs Weather sounds: Wind, Rain, Thunder, Wind Gust (on the ground only) Cabin and Cockpit muffing effect caused by Cockpit Door closed/open Flight Model Flight model has been carefully adjusted to match the real life CRJ-900. Real life CRJ-200/700/900 pilots were involved in the process. Realistic wing flex Wing Flex has been modelled and adjusted for realistic aircraft behavior FMS FMS and it's Pop Up is customized as far as look but based on the Default X-Plane one. Note: Default XP FMC is based on the Collins FMS-4200 and CRJ is using that one, no Honeywell and Thales types. 3D Modeling and Textures Almost all maps are 4K High Resolution Exterior is modeled with all details existing in real aircraft. Pilots are visible in external views and turn their heads slightly to ward camera view Interior modeling has been made paying attention to details in the real life CRJ-900 cockpit. Cabin and Stairs have adjustable lighting, see above Liveries included in the package are listed below Aegean Airlines, American Eagle, CRJ, Delta, Horizon, IBEX Ana, Lufthansa, Scandinavian 1, Scandinavian 2, Spirit Unique Package Features Stairs Rails can be raised and lowered (per customer request) Cockpit shaders slide and rotate as you need them All Windows Shades, Overhead Bins and Seat Trays are animated and functional VR Compatibility Package is VR compatible but future enhancements will be added -900 Images are courtesy of AD Simulations Designed by AD Simulation and Deltawing Simulations Support forum for the CRJ-900 _____________________ Yes! the CRJ-900 by AD Simulations/Delta Wing is NOW available from the X-Plane.Org Store here : CRJ-900 Price is US$49.95 Requirements X-Plane 11 Windows, Mac or Linux 4 GB VRAM Minimum - 8 GB+ VRAM Recommended Download Size: 1.1 GB Current version: 1.0 (April 24th 2022) CRJ-700 customers can get the CRJ-900 for 30% off. Please find the discount coupon in the original CRJ-700 invoice at the store ________________________________________ NEWS! by Stephen Dutton 25th April 2022 Copyright©2022: 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
  5. Aircraft Updated : CRJ-700 v1.1.2 plus -900 Announcement by Ad Simulations AD Simulations have released an update to their CRJ-700 to Version 1.1.2. Again another significant update to making that five updates since the late 2021 aircraft release. Before we get into that... AD Simulations has also announced that coming soon will be the another variant of the CRJ with the -900 longer version of the aircraft. If the expected quality of the of the -900 version matches the -700 it will be very nice indeed. If it will be a standalone price or coming with a discount for current CRJ-700 owners (expected!), and no released date has been currently announced, but it will be another excellent addition to the long neglected CRJ range... images! I am the first to admit that although the modeling and features are first rate from AD SIm, the performance and some features (notably the EFB (Electronic Flight Bag)) which doubles as a Menu, is still below par for an aircraft of this quality brand. But a recent flight of the v1.1.2. update said it has already improved considerably with the consistent updates, but I didn't like the castor loose nosewheel at all (It is going to looked at), here is the full list of changes in v1.1.2. Changelog v1.1.2. Fixed Rudder Limiter working in flight making rudder inputs less drastic Added Option in Tablet for Honeycomb Bravo hardware throttles. When selected Spoilers will stay deployed Made All Displays brighter and added individual minimum brightness knobs to each corresponding display which allows all desirable displays brightness combinations Adjusted autopilot behavior for less aggressive engagement and disengagement of certain Flight Modes Enabled ILS Course adjustment (green needles now can be rotated) Enabled ILS Frequency to be set via both RTUs Redesigned Flight Model Roll behavior from being very unstable to very realistic, with and without Flaps and Gear deployed/retracted Adjusted Roll Trim Speed Fixed the Landing Elevation issue that didn't let users change the landing elevation and made adjustments to CABIN PRESSURE Panel Make Slats Display correct on EICAS Adjusted Autopilot disengage sensitivity Made V speeds being affected by Flaps Settings Fixed Steering Wheel Switch functionality Added magenta color on CDU POpUp Fixed Master Alarm On the initial power up CDU BRT little knobs are now operative CAS boxing logic fixed Fixed AC Electrical Power logic when both APU and ground power are available. Electrical system priority will prioritize the APU over the ground power Added Commands for Idle and Shutoff Detents Fixed Nose Gear Animation in sharp turns. The angle of the front wheel did not fit the turning radius of the plane causing the look like wheel was sliding over the ground Added Arrow on PFD indication State and Side of the Autopilot being ON Fixed Crackling Reversers Sounds Fixed messages appearing while using Thrust Reversers when engaging and disengaging thrust reversers LEFT/RIGHT REVERSER UNSAFE,UNLOCKED and INOP Adjusted Gear data for aircraft to properly sit on the ground Adjusted coefficients of friction for wheels for better ani-skidding behavior Fixed bug when wind is set to direction from 0, wind arrow number flashes between 0 and 36 Fixed Standby Compass Lighting behavior when without energy it could be set to DIM and ON being lit Fixed R and L WING A/I message on EICAS Fixed APU SOV OPEN status message present after APU start up Fixed L/R REV UNSAFE and L/R REV UNLOCKED EICAS messages appearing when the aircraft is on the ground and thrust reversers deployed Rudder “brick” on the PFD is now functional CABIN PRESS panels MAN ALT Switch initializes in the HOLD position now The v1.1.2 update could be called a refinement update, with lots (no loads) of fixes and tweeks to get the aircraft into a more robust role, the feel is certainly far better that I last remembered, but still a bit wobbly on a pointed stick in handling, but these sort of finer handling details take time... the more later -900 version will be a good comparison on how the combined refinements have come along. You shouldn't expect the same with the later released aircraft, it should be more well rounded on release. But overall the AD Sim CRJ-700 is starting to deliver on it's promise in this well priced under US$50 price bracket, The CRJ will certainly in the future be a staple of the sort of the quality aircraft required today by X-Plane Simulator users. Updates are only available from your account on the X-Plane.OrgStore and NOW available. Just log in to your X-Plane.OrgStore Account and download the new v1.1.2 version. -900 Images are courtesy of AD Simulations Designed by AD Simulation and Deltawing Simulations Support forum for the CRJ-700 _____________________ Yes! the CRJ-700 by AD Simulations/Delta Wing is NOW available from the X-Plane.Org Store here : CRJ-700 Price is US$49.95 Requirements X-Plane 11 Windows, Mac or Linux 4 GB VRAM Minimum - 8 GB+ VRAM Recommended Download Size: 893 MB Current version: 1.1.0 (10th March 2022) ________________________________________ NEWS! UPDATE by Stephen Dutton 19th April 2022 Copyright©2022: 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
  6. Aircraft Review : CRJ-700 by AD Simulations/Delta Wing In January 2012, the JRollon CRJ-200 was a landmark release for the X-Plane simulator (X-Plane10). It was a trendsetter aircraft in being the first aircraft in X-Plane with deep systems and a real FMS (Flight Management System) by Philipp Ringler, and was also in using one of the first Plugin SDKs. Tricky to fly, but as a simulation it was years ahead in design, feel, and in bringing the aviation realism to the desktop. In 2016 the JRollon CRJ-200 also got an exceptional custom sound pack by Blue Sky Star Simulations. This package brought new life into an already old design, and even now I find the aircraft just as fulfilling as it did all those years ago, and amazing is that aircraft will be actually a decade old in just a few months. That aspect alone is exceptional for any aircraft release. A version v2 CRJ-200 was started, but never released by JRollon as Philipp Ringler is not now available to update the original FMS, but never say never. Comparisons to the Aerosoft CRJ Series is always also going to be a consideration, as that aircraft is highly regarded. Basically we don't cross platform, so the only comparisons is with the only other CRJ in X-Plane and that is the JR CRJ-200. The only area that most simulator flyers proclaimed was that the JRollon design was of the -200 version of the CRJ, it was in fact the most marginal of all the CRJ variants created by Bombardier Aerospace (Which is also very JRollon, as his Jetstream 32 was also a very marginal aviation seller). However in reality everyone always wanted the more longer and the more active airline regional aircraft in the CRJ700, CRJ900, and CRJ1000 series. It has been a long wait, but here is a CRJ-700 series aircraft by AD Simulations. Notable is that the development of this aircraft started under the Supercritical Simulations Group banner (SSG), but a breakup a year ago saw the development teams all take off in all different directions, and probably each with their own different aspects of the development. The work to release is now by only AD Simulations, but notable was that AD Simulations has announced a partnership with “Delta Wing Simulations” to further develop the aircraft, with Delta Wing taking on the systems side of the work that was previously done by SSG. But the point of view here is in if this aircraft had progressed to release via SSG, that aspect would have certainly been seen as an interesting aircraft as for the SSG development capacity is well known and of high quality in the X-Plane Simulator. During the early 1990s, Bombardier Aerospace became interested in developing larger variants of the CRJ100/200 series and the associated design work commenced in 1994. The CRJ-X, as the new range was initially designated, sought to compete with larger regional jets such as the Fokker 70/Fokker 100 or the BAe 146 family. The CRJ-X featured a stretched fuselage, a lengthened wing and up-rated General Electric CF34-8C engines while maintaining a common type-rating with the basic CRJ. Leading-edge extensions and high-lift slats improved the wing performance, other aerodynamic changes included an enlarged horizontal tailfin. During September 1998, Bombardier also studied an all-new 90-seat BRJ-X model. The company later shelved it for a less expensive, stretched CRJ-X version, later designated CRJ-900, while the original CRJ-X was designated as the CRJ-700. The CRJ-700 incorporated several CRJ-900 features, such as its revised wing and avionics improvements. The CRJ-700 and CRJ-900 also share a type rating, permitting cross-crew qualification via a three-day course. The Series 700 is limited to 68 passengers. I came to the AD Simulation CRJ-700 directly after reviewing the FlyJSim Q4XP, is that fair? Not really as the Q4XP is a level above almost everything else in X-Plane, and in price. So you have to wind back some of the expectations here, even if they share the same regional airliner category. But even in this lower level and pricing category, the quality promoted here is still very, very good and not far behind it's expensive but higher quality brethren. Note: This review includes the extensive update v1.0.1 (December 20th 2021). Differences are stark between the release version and the update and the changes are noted here. (debatable as always is releasing a product before serious testing and initial refining). This review was originally started under the release version of the CRJ-700, but then held over (at the wishes of the developer) to the updated version, which is something X-PlaneReviews rarely does, but in this case the hold over was warranted. External Detail First impressions are impressive on the aircraft walk-around. The aircraft is really very nicely modeled, with some really good detail, nose and fuselage shapes are excellent, you are admiring the work significantly here. The minute detailing is not bad either, the rivets are a bit lo-res, but the construction panels are well visible. The winglets are simply excellent in shape and show off the well done NML normal mapping, or Dot3 bump mapping which is really very good here, note the lovely metal and neat concave riveting. So when you look close you see this impressive depression detail work all over the aircraft. Odd is the line around the inner wing root fairings? It is squiggly line, not exactly promoting anything, and it stands out, I couldn't find this odd line on any real life CRJ images either. Exceptional is the wing detail. Wingtip lighting components and metal shroud is really well done, as is the inner landing lights enclosure. Also is the metal leading edge (in different metallic compositions) that looks highly realistic... ... leading edge extended shows off the internal detailing, which is of course first rate, ditto those long double-slotted hinged barn door flaps that are authentic to the CRJ series. The CRJ Series uses the General Electric CF34-8C turbofans with a power output between 13,790–14,500 lbf (61.3–64.5 kN). The turbofans were a significant highlight on the earlier JR -200 aircraft, they are also very well represented here. Engine pod shape is excellent, and cleanly modeled, with great detail (all the shroud latches and access panels are all represented and highly detailed). Inner pod detail is nice, with great both fan and detailed spinner. Rear exhaust cones are lovely metallic and also very nicely detailed, and have the nice exhaust gas burns where required. Rear left cargo hatch is situated under the CF34-8C engine. Rear vents and APUs (Auxilary Power Unit) burnt exhaust mottling are again really well done, this detail is just all very good. There is that Challenger 300 feel to the tail form, as it is the Bombardier's relative and the design is certainly noticeable on the higher sections. Again the design flows are excellent, the tail looks and feels very realistic. Tail leading edge metal shroud is again excellent, and note the placed elevator trim markings on the tail. Debatable are the cockpit windows... The tint is extremely dark in this option, overall they just don't look right and are highly noticeable externally. AD Sim have now also given you an optional clear version, but this option now goes too far the other way in the windows being completely clear, the tint just needed to be adjusted a little lighter... .... windscreen surround detail is excellent (again) in detail, every screw is visible on a nice metal frame... top marks. The cabin windows also give you a sort of illusion. They look like they have no glass in them, but they are correct and very nice in the right lighting conditions. Landing gear mains are also exceptional. Highly quality modeled and intricately detailed, with internal bay detail also exceptional. The wheels sit flush (à la Boeing 737) with the fuselage, and a nice detail is the overlapping wheel skirt around the wheel bay(s). You simply can't fault the gear detail, each piston, link, support and hydraulic line is highly detailed, not the highly visible front-forward positioned hydraulic filter.... exceptional. Wheel rims are also extremely good with nice chrome bolts... detail, detail. Nose-gear is just as intricate and detailed, with the internal bay which is just as good... .... so it is well worth getting up really close to inspect the excellent detail, you won't fault it either. So externally you don't expect FJS Q4XP's detail and quality, the CRJ is not that high, but not that far below either, and to note you are paying far less and a category below for all this extreme quality... well worth your money in my eyes. Internal Details The main front left door is highly detailed, gone are the days of just a fuselage shape with a set of steps built in, nowadays all the construction and detailed door sections are now highly detailed and visible, including the welcome metallic "Bombardier CRJ" fold out plate. The rails can be lowered (or raised) via a key command (and a hotspot) if you wish to park at an airbridge. The view up into the cabin is excellent, highly realistic. You are instantly aware on boarding that the external quality extends internally, note the really tight and small galley for an aircraft of this size with all of 65 passengers to feed. It is a two class cabin. With nine (3 rows -3 abreast) business seats and 56 (14 rows - 4 abreast) economy seating... The seating and cabin feel has actually (already) been revised in the update. Originally it was a darkish brown and gave an overall dark feel to cabin... revised (v1.01) and the brighter lighter tan of the business seats and nice shiny black vinyl of the economy seating is giving you now a far better aspect, and adds in a very luxury feel to the cabin, sidewall and the roof of the cabin are both very well done. Window side panels are not lit (no sidewall lighting) but the overhead lighting is nicely detailed with centre strip lighting and the large personal twin passenger lights... originally the window shades were fixed (which I totally hated), but are all now individually animated up or down and also adjustable via a scroll wheel. There is no rear galley, but behind the central door is a washroom/toilet. One of the biggest changes in the v1.01 update was this rear bathroom (comments abound on why a bathroom is actually more important to a vital systems/performance update?). Originally just a single central toilet.... the detail has been totally revised in a sort of current X-Plane fad of a restroom "Space Race" on who can create the best onboard amenities... this CRJ layout is certainly (now) right up there with the very best. Door lock slider works (as does the engaged marker) and the lock in turn, turns on the internal overhead light, very snazzy. To the right is the full set of amenities.... ... including a nicely animated toilet seat and lowering baby changing table... press "Flush" (à la Q4XP) and the toilet flushes. Two other new animations in the update, are that now both the crew seats slide out for takeoff and landing at each end of the cabin. Overall the cabin is now very nice, and certainly far better after the v1.01 update. Cockpit Re-enforced (post 9/11) cockpit door looks formidable. The cockpit entrance way is extremely well detailed, but the cabin lighting and control panels are still blank buttons. Cockpit is tight or large business jet in size, because basically this aircraft grew out of a business jet design. It is very nice in the office, but also very dark... courtesy of those heavily tinted cockpit windows, hence it is also dark and murky looking viewing out of the aircraft as well? Highlight is the lovely overhead console (not really just a panel).... beautifully crafted and detailed, you have to admire it. The cockpit escape hatch is lovingly detailed as well, but does not open. To see anything in here you need lights and power... on the OHP upper left. I turn on the APU. It is odd on turning on the APU as the left PWR/FUEL button is not illuminated, but still required to start the APU and show you it's startup state on the MFD (Multi-Functional Display)... so you press the switch(es) twice or more times in frustration. Notable are that the airvents and forward spot lights that are animated (moveable), very nice, so you turn on every light you can find. Cockpit quality is of the highest order, everything nicely replicated and feels very CRJish. The pilots seats are nice as well, but the sheepskin covers feel more molded than actually woolly, the seating materials are however really good, as are the lovely wing headrests. The armrests are now also (v1.01) animated, but tricky to use until you understand the lever pressure points, left seat, left armrest still needs some refinement and note the nice chrome seatbelts. Also animated in the update is that you can now move the seats position backwards and forwards to your preference, via the side seat lever (arrowed), but the wing headrests can intrude into the FOV space full forward if set at the standard 73º. So you set the seat about halfway down the track. Sit in the pilot's sea and... BOOM! and you are suddenly very aware of your intimate connection with this aircraft, or rather the CRJ-200 of JRollon environment without all that heavy graphic art. With it's long rear sidewindows the CRJ always felt more like sportscar than an aircraft, and that feeling with the distant low instrument panel only heightens the awareness. Note the nice window surround molding. Thick chunky yokes are super nice with built in AP Disconnect and moving checklist counter (both also have Command settings) Intercom and cable are masterful modeling, but the hotspot to hide the yokes is very hard to find as it is only a small black button on the glareshield (arrowed). Instrument Panels Lovely instrument panel has the six across Rockwell Collins Pro Line 4 avionics suite. The displays are nicely reflective (most current releases are going for the boring matt reflection effect, but you can be set this non-reflective feel if you want to). But I would rather have this more realistic reflective display. All the display fonts have been monospaced in v.1.01 for a better real-life match as well as rendering and scaling, this is certainly far better as earlier the red fonts would bleed badly, it is more highly readable now. All six Primary (PFD) and MultiFuctional (MFD) displays pop-out in windows, that can be highly resized for the home cockpit brigades... The FMS (Flight Management System) is standard Laminar default, hopefully a custom Collins FMS-4200 system will be attempted in the future as installed in the CRJ-700. However both pop-out FMS facias are nicely CRJ replicated and Laminar version is based on the Collins, but not in pure detail. Other central upper panel notes include; LDG Gear (Landing Gear) handle, Anti-Skid, Engine Settings, GRND PROX (Ground Proximity). You can switch displays via the left (or right) reversionary panel; NORM, PFD 1 or EICAS. PFD (Pirmary Flight Display) has the Speed and Altitude ribbons, with a rate of turn above the Artificial Horizon. There are built in ILS bands and Baro. VRefs which are set to the lower right. Set below is a HSI (Horizontal Situation Indicator), with built in Heading, Course, ILS Freq, and VOR1 and VOR 2 bearing indicators with the V/S Vertical Speed indicator set to the right. Multifunction Display (MFD) is set in HSI Mode as default. This displays Radar mode, Time/Temp, Course display, Selected heading, Course Pointer, Bearing pointers, Bearing Pointer and ILS Lateral/Vertical Deviation scales. The rotary FORMAT knob can be used to select one of the following navigation formats; HSI compass, Navaid sector map, TCAS, FMS present position map, FMS plan map and Weather radar. A central integrated standby instrument (ISFD) is located between the EICAS (Engine Indicating and Crew Alerting System) displays. Left EICAS (ED1) covers the FADEC (Full Authority Digital Electronic Control System). Shows are digital dials for N1 (fan Speed), ITT (Interstage Turbine Temperature), N2 (compressor speed), FF (Fuel Flow) and OIL Temp and Pressure... right lower is the GEAR position, SLAT/FLAP position and FUEL QTY (Quantity) in tanks and TOTAL FUEL. The FADEC Caution/Warning alerts are noted top right. The secondary EICAS (ED2) right is known also as the STATUS page. It covers; Flight control trim indications, Auxiliary power unit (APU) RPM, exhaust gas temperature (EGT) and APU inlet door status, Pressurization data such as cabin altitude, cabin rate of change, cabin pressure differental and landing field elevation, Oxygen system pressure, Brake system temperature and Crew alerting system (CAS) messages in the form of green advisory and white status messages There are Aircraft systems synoptic pages selected via the EICAS Control Panel rear of the throttles and covers PRI (Primary Page) - same as the ED1, STAT (Status), ECS (Environmental Control System), HYD (Hydraulics) ELEC (Electrical), FUEL, F/CTL (Flight Controls), A/ICE (Anti-Ice), DOORS and MENU. Notable is that you use the EICAS Control Panel to (MENU) to move through the actions, with UP/DOWN and SEL options. The CAS alerts cancel selection is here as well. Centre pedestal also covers Radios (note to turn up the brightness manually). Aileron and Rudder Trims, Lighting Panel, YAW Damper, Weather Radar Parking Brake and Cargo Fire selections. The next two areas are again very JR CRJ-200 familiar, and you will feel very much at home in using them. The OverHead Console is well laid out (top-down ergonomics). ELECTRICAL top left, FIRE, EXT (External Lighting), FUEL, BLEED AIR, APU, ENGINE STARTER(s), HYDRAULIC, CABIN PRESS (Pressure), AIR-CONDITIONING, ANTI-ICE and MISC LTS (Miscellaneous Lights). Lower front panel includes External - LANDING LTS (Lights), ELT and right NO SMKO/SEAT BELTS and EMER LTS (Emergency Exit Lights). Glareshield has the AFCS (Automatic Flight Control System) which has the basic usual Autopilot control panel set up, with a ½ Bank and FD (Flight Director) options. I am not crazy about the left and right warning light buttons, as they don't have the depth of feel like on the JR CRJ. Ditto the JR CRJ on each side are the Pilot and Co-Pilot... N/W Steering, Lighting, Wiper and Reversionary panels, the Digital Electronic Clocks are situated here as well (but don't work than telling the time). Final feature of the cockpit is the window blinds that are both animated. They are extremely tricky to use unless you understand how they work... basically touching the central fitting moves the blind left or right, and up and down is via the left (UP) and right (DOWN) blind regions. The blind can moved all the way around to the central window position on it's rail. We will look at the cabin lighting in the air, as the airport lighting is too bright here. Tablet Menu AD SImulation's Menu system is still currently quite basic, compared to others of late. There is only one tablet (Pilot side), and like the window blinds you can move it left and right along a track for the right position you personally like.... and the tablet can also stow downwards (via the top little stick). You turn the tablet on via the button hotspot, and if you press the AD Simulations logo you get the window pop-out option. There are SEVEN icon menu options. The first icon box is the default blank screen and not counted here.... in order; DOOR HANDLING, COCKPIT, PASSENGERS, (ICON not currently active?), FUEL LOAD, SETTINGS and INFO. DOOR HANDLING : There are four doors on the CRJ-700. Passenger Door (front left), Service Door (front right), Cargo Centre Door and the Cargo Aft door. All door animations are very good, with handle movements... door detail and the cargo interiors are also excellent. There are key COMMANDs for the doors, but they are buried deep in the key command menus. They are not listed under DOORS?, or even TABLET? but under the crj700/tablet/doors selection, in the second "tablet" selection, and positioned lower down and not in the first selection of "Tablet" commands as that selection only turns the tablet on/off?... it's a little complicated. COCKPIT : In the cockpit menu you can select to start up "COLD and DARK" or "READY to TAXI" or the aircraft completely shutdown or completely powered up and ready for flight. Missing is the central state of "Turnaround", which remembers the last situation of the aircraft and an aircraft state option I mostly use? "USE EXTERNAL POWER" places a very nice and connected GPU (Ground Power Unit) outside to the right of the aircraft. (note this COCKPIT menu option was moved in the v1.01 update from the SETTINGS page). PASSENGERS : You load the amount of passengers via the central slider which is totally impossible to use. Thankfully in v1.01 AD Sim has now given you the option to now input the passenger count directly... seriously I really hated the slider only idea before and at least this is an improvement if it is still fiddly. FUEL LOAD : Like loading passengers, the fuel loading is also done with a slider and thankfully now (in v1.01) the direct passenger amount input is also available. Before it was simply impossible to input your fuel load? (however you can also set it also directly on the X-Plane default WEIGHT, BALANCE and FUEL page, which is recommended here as overall it works better). The full "TOTAL FUEL WEIGHT" is shown lower right of the menu screen. SETTINGS : As noted the SETTINGS menu page has been completely revised into three new menu selections; GLASSES, SOUNDS and MISC. GLASSES; changes the tint and reflection options for both the cockpit windows and displays. COCKPIT EXTERNAL GLASSES - changes the window external tint from "Normal" (Clear) to "Tinted" (Dark) COCKPIT INTERNAL GLASSES - changes the window internal tint from "Normal" (Clear) to "Tinted" (Dark), and the difference is quite significant. COCKPIT DISPLAYS - Gives you three options of reflections in; No Reflections, Medium Reflections and High Reflections of any of the display surfaces... shown here is "No" and "High" reflection options on the menu tablet. SOUNDS and MISC; The SOUNDS page gives you five sliders covering; EXTERIOR ENGINES, INTERIOR ENGINES, WIND EFFECT, WEATHER & EXT ENV (Environment) and finally Cockpit and Cabin (sounds). The sliders can again be tricky to use and mouse scrolling is the best way of using the sliders, otherwise the settings jump to the wrong choice? MISC currently only has one setting for FLIGHT MODEL in "FLY BY WIRE" or "SIMULATION" FLY BY WIRE – is the version that makes flight model more computerized (as in real life fly-by-wire systems) and SIMULATION – is the version that emulates real CRJ-700 flight model without any computer alteration. INFO : The menu "Information" page shows you your WEIGHT with Left Wing/Centre/Right Wing Fuel quantity and TOTAL WEIGHT. This will compute your VRefs and STAB TRIM, and you can load these parameters directly into the system. You can also change from Kg to Lbs. No doubt the Tablet Menu is still a WIP, but now far better than the initial poor release version. Notable is that the many of the menu settings still don't save your settings or asks you to save them, so you have to recheck (mostly the GLASSES settings) every time you start the CRJ Simulation. Overall it is still a very basic menu layout and limited options with no Centre of Gravity numbers or graph charts... Flying the CRJ-700 Familiarity with the JRollon CRJ-200 pays off dividends in flying the -700 variant. Almost all of the switch gear and procedures are very much the same, the biggest difference however between the two aircraft is that the CRJ-200 was basically a one sided pilot focused aircraft, in the CRJ-700 it is available to fly on both sides. But the quirks in here are quite noticeable. Power up... If you are powered battery on only, then only the twin centre EICAS displays are operational, but not the outer PFD/MFD displays. They will only come on later with direct power with the APU running, in a flip. Unlike a lot of newer aircraft lately, the screen power up (and test procedure) is not implemented. But it sorta works. The nosewheel always starts up at an angle? which is not very realistic. Like a lot of actions in this CRJ they are very manual in nature, that would be an automatic setting in an airliner, again reflecting it's Private Jet heritage. The N/W STRG needs to switched ON (Upper far left console) to straighten the gear out correctly. I found adjusting the X-Plane; "Weight, Balance, Fuel" menu I could get the correct fuel load inputted (thankfully) rather than using the dreadful slider, but for the Passenger load the only option it was a direct input. All weights are shown on the INFO page. Although basic... the original CRJ-200 FMS was very authentic to the aircraft. The default Laminar FMS in here is certainly not, but it is very simple to set up a route and programme. Here our route is EKCH (Copenhagen) to EGLL (Heathrow, London). But note that a few of the arrow buttons (PLAN) buttons are not on the default FMC facia. Both the No Smoking and Seat Belt signs work individually, but the EMERGENCY (Exit) signs have (still even in v1.01) no AUTO mode, so it is unrealistic to set in ON or OFF, but at least they work correctly in the cabin. On pushback... engine (No.2) startup is simple and duplicates the -200 procedure. FUEL BOOST on, IGNITION-CONT on, BLEED OPEN (ISOL) Valves can be set to MANUAL or AUTO, then press the starter button for either R (Right) or L (Left)... ... at 20% N2, you flick up the Fuel shutoff lever lower throttle and the CF34-8C turbotjet engine purrs into life. Mirror the start procedure for engine No.1 and your powered up. Comments on the "Fuel Shut off" tabs in that they are not very realistic here to use or quite tricky to understand? There is no definite click or action on the gate, and the tabs can be moved up or down at any point of the throttle position unlike on most simulation aircraft it is usually just a one click release. So you click twice to not only induce the fuel, but to get the throttle release action for the second click... there is a method in the actions, and I sorta understand it, but it feels it needs a more definite tab action to be real world realistic. Engine start up sounds are very good, certainly not even a brush on the custom -200 BSS sounds which are incredible... but they are pretty aurally good here (so are the cockpit system sounds)... when started the engines settle down around 23.6% N1. Notable are the thrust effects, more a cloud than exhaust thrust in the original release, but they are now a far more realistic blur. On board APU can be now shutdown via the button next to the APU Start/Stop button, APU running is shown in the lower ED2. Now also the engine IGN and BLEED ISOL (Closed) can be set back to normal. As noted you have set the systems manually. The Reverse thrust has to be set into AUTO mode, and SPOILERS also to AUTO mode. A note on the BLEED ISOL. The setting stays on all flight no matter the BLEED ISOL position? The developers note to switch the BLEED to MANUAL... but that does not kill the ISOL warning, but annoyingly adds in another MANUAL BLEED warning? External taxi lighting has been changed in the v1.01 update... standard before it has now a more halogen look and feel, it looks certainly more modern... but should you have the choice? You have to give the throttles a fair movement in their gates on the release version before the thrust kicked in, but in v1.01 the thrust is now readily available... but the throttles also do flicker badly sometimes in their gates which is distracting. Note the very dark cockpit environment in the full tinted internal setting, but you get used to it. Using the "Tiller" in taxiing it is a bit sharp or "touchy", but you also get used to it... a more wider slightly (slower) movement would feel more realistic So you taxi fast with the throttles at idle and need the consistent braking to control the speed, as there is always too much power at idle, which begs the question has the throttle position active thrust zone been pulled back tooo far? Though CRJ pilot's note they do taxi only on one engine, but here now with both throttles already set at idle, you are still taxiing around at speed... it is simply too much thrust. You need to set the trim to 5.8 (STAT Page). Which is quite low in the green zone, if you set it central around 7.8 (as noted in the INFO) the nose will lift early, a reference that needs to changed. Secondly is positioning the SPEED counter on the Speed Ribbon as a pointer to rotate (VFTO 187) or Vr 177+10 (Flap 8º) as I noted earlier, as it is hard to see the small green line Ref Speeds as they are small and distant, so the speed counter is a far better marker to rotate to... Throttles are both pushed to the Takeoff Marker or 90% percent N1, and release the brakes... sadly or annoyingly the timer counter(s) are not yet working either? At VR (187 knots) you raise the nose and find a positive climb. Climb rate is 3500 fpm, but on average you will initially do 3000 fpm, reducing down to 2000fpm around 12,000ft... I seriously like watching the gear go up on the CRJ... nice here. You have to watch the speed closely... get up close to or over 300 knts and the nose will start to porpoise violently? So you have to keep the climb speed around the 250 knts to 260 knts zone to get a clean climb... which doesn't feel very right to me at all, as the official climb speed is noted at 290 knts. That is not achievable here as it then creates an overspeed zone to cause buffeting? Secondly the CRJ does not react to the change of a climb pitch, say down from 2000 fpm to 1200 fpm in increasing the speed, only back at an altitude level does the speed finally climb up to it's normal 0.74-0.78 cruise speed, and even then the change in speed is very slow... Everyone is complaining that the CRJ is over powered, but the speed changes are odd as well up or down the speed ribbon. Again I use the SPEED marker (above) to note my final m 0.74 cruise speed. Maximum CRJ-700 Speed is 0.825 Mach (470 kn, 871 km/h) and the cruise is 0.78 Mach (447 kn, 829 km/h), with a Ceiling of 41,000 ft / 12,479 m.... Range is 1,378 NM / 2,553 km (ER). Lighting On most high quality aircraft released for X-Plane today the lighting is usually very good, and so it is here in the CRJ-700. It looks (in the right lighting conditions) really brilliant with ten (count them) dropdown lights for the side panels and the centre main instrument panel. But be aware on how much of the lighting reflects back on to the windshield... ... There are two animated spotlights either side of the OHP Console, they are animated and adjustable... very nice, but very hard to actually manoeuvre with your mouse (moving left to right is via your scroll). There is also a rear spotlight over the cockpit entrance. Note the very nice two tone adjustable Whiskey Compass centre windshield. The DOME lighting only covers the front section of the cockpit lighting, very nice, but still quite dark for working inflight. If you want a brightly lit cockpit then the each far side LIGHTING panel gives you that per side lighting option and very good it all is. You can easily find that sweet lighting aroma for Takeoff and Landing in dim cockpit conditions. The FLOOD knob rear pedestal controls most of the downlighting, with the side panels and rear pedestal DSPL knobs controlling the display brightness... yes it is all very excellent. The cabin lighting is currently controlled via a couple of knobs on the rear cockpit bulkhead. CABIN LIGHTS and STAIR LIGHTS. (originally set the wrong way around, that oversight has now been fixed)... The galley is excellent with sensational bright and modern lighting (note the working EXIT signs). The Galley area lighting does not go low or dark, but just more sombre. The cabin is nice as well. There are no window downlights in the CRJ, as here you use the twin spots above every seat, which creates along with the central ceiling strip lighting a really nice internal ambience... ... and adjusting the cabin brightness can give you the perfect lighting for a mid-flight snooze or nice low lighting for taking off or landing... perfect! External Lighting The CRJs external lighting is very good as well. Nothing is missing here. Notable is that the landing lights (again as per the -200) they are wing and nose, with the taxi-lights positioned in the inner wing and not on the nosewheel as per usual (the nosewheel light is a landing light). But everything is nice with the standard Navigation, Beacon and Tail lighting. The Wing lighting is very good as well in lighting up the inner winglets. The CRJ looks nice in the air because of it's subdued cabin lighting, so overall the CRJ looks great in flight in night flying conditions. London beckons. There is a certain skill in holding the correct airspeed. Like with all mostly regional aircraft there is no auto-throttle management to do the work for you. Here you have find that correct throttle position, but to also adjust consistently in flight to compensate for the fuel use or lighter weight. So like a baby you can't leave the speed alone for too long or you will find yourself going too fast, then too slow as you try to recalibrate the thrust. Just a slight nudge down on the throttles now and then in flight will keep the speed on the MACH target and around the set SPEED marker. Regional aircraft tend to not like going down either, it is very easy to get a horrible nose pitch down if you have to descend too quickly. So picking your TOD (Top of Descent) point and a more shallower descent rate (1.6 to 1.8) it feels and looks better, certainly for the paying passengers. There is an "Altitude Marker" (Arrowed) on the MAP/NAV, but it is currently not very reliable (or bounces around too much) to be perfectly accurate, but you can still use it as a basic guide. There is no BARO Sync either, so you have to set your BAROs independently, thankfully it is easy to do. The east coast of England, and instantly as usual London is lost in low overcast conditions and visibility is almost zero... Controlling the speed is vital in to getting a good landing. I get the speed down early, and just past LAM (Lambourne 115.6 MHz) I'm already under the 230 knts mark and set the Flaps 20º. If you try for more flap (you need a minimum of 185 knts at 30º) then like on the JR -200 you get a nasty nose down pitch. Any route into Heathrow on the eastern approach is very hard, as there are very few waypoints to make a decent line into (this case) Rwy 27R. Add into the fact that the default FMS is (crap) at doing detailed approach waypoints (numbered waypoints are not well supported), so you have to know the approach path very well to align up to the runway correctly, thankfully I do know the approach well, so don't rely on the FMS to do a great job here, because it will let you down (A trick is using the BARNS waypoint for 27R, and RICHY waypoint for 27L). Getting the speed down (all the time) is tricky, as even with the throttles at idle, you are still going too fast. You certainly don't dare not raise the nose going into the ILS Cone in for losing the beam track. Thankfully I can work it out and get the CRJ to 120 knts and 45º (Full) flap, which is perfect for the beam's 3000fpm descent into LHR 27R. Approach views from the cabin are excellent... ... but up front I am still in wanting less speed, the 3º slope has increased the speed slightly, but I have nowhere to go as I am already at throttle idle. So you arrive at the threshold (if lucky) flat or even slightly nose down in being slightly too fast, thankfully as the slope kicks out the speed drops away (very slowly), and you can do a slight final flare... ... if you armed the reversers (You did ARM the reversers didn't you!) as they are very effective, both in slowing you down and in the great ROAR sounds they make, they look really good in operation as well. "Welcome to London" To be fair though the JRollon -200 was a tricky beast on approach as well. It had a wide gap between the 30º and 45º flap points that could pitch the nose down severely, and so you had to know the very exact speed to be at before doing the flap change, which still gave you a slight nose up, before a nose down situation. Expert flying however could get you around that foible. Here it is too much power at idle and no lower thrust that keeps the speed too high all the time with nowhere for you to go, so here you need more flexibility to fly the aircraft more expertly as the current parameters are too confined. Challenging, but also rewarding if you can get it all right. _______________ Liveries Already there is a wide selection of liveries to be used with the CRJ-700, as it is a very flexible aircraft. Here are a few now available, and all of great quality they are... with two in a "House" CRJ700 livery and a AD Simulations livery (default). _____________________ Summary Most simulator users in X-Plane revere the early JRollon CRJ-200, and for good reason in that the aircraft broke new ground and created a new category for high quality detail and aircraft systems, including the very first authentic FMS system in the X-Plane Simulator. The JR CRJ-200 was brilliant in it's time, and even still holds up today nearly a decade older. But what online pilots really wanted was the larger variants of the CRJ Series in the -700 or the -900 (even the -1000). And we have had to wait almost a decade to get one in the CRJ-700 (CRJ-900 is promised to follow) in a release from AD Simulations now partnered with Delta Wing Simulations, with the earlier dropping of the association with Supercritical Simulations Group from the project late year 2020. Modeling wise this aircraft is absolutely first rate, far better than it's pay grade, and certainly in the quality US$70 marker. The detail is superb, and everything looks and feels very realistic. And you get a load of aircraft for your money. The detail follows on inside the aircraft in the lovely cabin, galley and lately even a snazzy bathroom, and the lighting throughout is excellent. Sounds are also excellent, but certainly not up to par with the CRJ-200 optional BSS custom sound package which is simply sensational (we all hope of the same BSS pack for this -700 version). Cockpit detail is again also sensationally modeled, but not with the extensive animations of the Q4XP, and the CRJ comes with only the standard X-Plane FMS system, but still it is visually modified to look and feel like a custom Collins FMS-4200 system like in the real aircraft. There is also currently no Skunkcrafts Updater or AviTab, but both which have been promised in a future update. Systems wise it is good, but not deep, deep if you get what I mean but on p[ar with the Aerosoft aircraft. But there is a very functional Rockwell Collins Pro Line 4 avionics suite that comes with great EICAS ((Engine Indicating and Crew Alerting System) and FADEC (Full Authority Digital Electronic Control System) availability and access. Notable is that this CRJ-700 review was the first update to v1.01 on which this review is based. I like to review on an aircraft at it's release point, as "What you see is what you get"... but in this case I think (as usual) the aircraft was released too far early as bugs and details are still in areas bountiful and certainly on the performance side... The weaknesses are obvious as the AD Simulations CRJ in that it currently feels like overall in being an X-Plane basic performance aircraft, and not a refined CRJ performance aircraft. Delta Wing should cover these aspects and is doing so quickly, but that finesse is certainly not there yet, but getting there real fast, if you know what I mean. These aspects should have also been covered by a decent beta phase. As the still in-progress menu system, the non-finessed flight dynamics and aircraft's performance and the buggy environment, the CRJ was obviously not ready for such an early public release. I have noted a fair amount of issues and bugs throughout this review. But don't the get the review in the wrong way as any CRJ is very challenging aircraft to fly... Skill is needed and yes the aircraft will test those skills thoroughly, but also getting a complete composed flight is quite easily possible, as noted CRJ isn't yet perfect in the performance aspects. When it is though it will certainly be a very compelling simulation... or when the dynamics match up with the quality design. But long term this CRJ-700 from AD SIm and DW is certainly destined for X-Plane classic status for just in the fact it is so much wanted to fill in those regional flying roles. The Aerosoft CRJs are already highly desirable, but has never oe will be be cross-platform delivered, but now that factor doesn't matter any more as we now have our own and a CRJ. Certainly even currently it is a "Must Have" aircraft and at a sub US$50 price to sweeten the deal, now all there is to do is for the developers to fine tune the aircraft to deliver the built-in potential of the aircraft, and there are certainly a few areas yet here to yet cover to achieve that highly desirable "Classic" status, but that aspect won't hopefully take too long... we will watch with interest. _____________________ Yes! the CRJ-700 by AD Simulations/Delta Wing is NOW available from the X-Plane.Org Store here : CRJ-700 Price is US$49.95 Features Systems Systems are modeled based on real life CRJ-700 aircraft. 5 CRJ real life pilots and few simulator enthusiasts were helping us to develop and make them work just like in real life. Flight Control Panel knobs support fast scrolling via left mouse button press and hold and precise scrolling via mouse wheel scroll Mode Control Panel SPEED and other modes simulate the real Autopilot modes on the CRJs. The screens are as close to the real ones as possible. Center Glareshield All Center Glareshield Knobs and Pushbuttons animated and functional Displays Displays are exceptionally crisp and with letters and symbols easily visible PFD Primary Flight Display is modeled exactly as real life counterpart MFD Multifunction Display can display following modes HSI The horizontal situation indicator shows the compass card with overlaid selectable navaids, bearing and course pointers NAV SECTOR Navigation display with compass card and a background map. The navigation display shows course pointer and deviation bar. VOR bearing and DME distance information is shown FMS MAP Flight Management System Map shows the track and waypoints programmed in the CDU (Control Display Unit). FMS MAP shows the aircraft heading. TCAS Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System investigates the air traffic control transponders of nearby airplanes and identifies and displays potential and predicted collision threats. FMS PLAN MAP shows programmed waypoints of the route. Shows north at the top of the display. Waypoints can be selected by using UP and DOWN arrows on CDU (Control Display Unit) RADAR- to be implemented in future versions EICAS (ENGINE INDICATION AND CREW ALERTING SYSTEM Displays. Following displays can be shown using ECP (EICAS CONTROL PANEL) PRI STAT ECS HYD ELEC (AC and DC) FUEL F/CTL A/ICE DOORS CAS PopUp Displays, movable, scalable able to be dragged to multiple monitors Tablet/EFB Captain and FO PFD (Primary Flight Display) Captain and FO MFD (Multi Function Display) Primary EICAS Secondary EICAS Left and Right CDU (Control Display Unit) Skunks Updater To be implemented in the future Cockpit Lighting There is FULL lighting implemented, FLOOD, INTEGRATED and DISPLAYS with animated knobs and switches. You can adjust the intensity of displays, panels and light in any combination you like. In addition CABIN LIGHTS and STAIR LIGHTS are also adjustable via corresponding switches in the back of the cockpit External Lighting FULL external lighting is available via animated corresponding switches Tablet/EFB There is a Tablet and popup Menu WIP Sounds FMOD Custom sounds are implemented using FMOD. Engine sounds Cockpit sounds: Avionics, Gyro, Relays, Fans (Packs), Controls (Buttons/switches, levers) Warning sounds: Take-off GPWS (Too Low Terrain, Too Low Gear, Too Low Flaps, Terrain Caution, Bank angle, Sink rate, Don’t-sink, Pull Up) Autopilot, Fire, Alerts Cabin sounds: Galley, Cooling Exterior sounds: Gear Roll/Touch, APU, GPU, Flaps, Hydraulic and Fuel Pumps, Wind drag, Packs Weather sounds: Wind, Rain, Thunder, Wind Gust (on the ground only) Cabin and Cockpit muffing effect caused by Cockpit Door closed/open Flight Model Flight model has been carefully adjusted to match the real life CRJ-700. Real life CRJ-200/700/900 pilots were involved in the process. Realistic wing flex Wing Flex has been modelled and adjusted for realistic aircraft behavior FMS FMS and it's Pop Up is customized as far as look but based on the Default X-Plane one. Note: Default XP FMC is based on the Collins FMS-4200 and CRJ is using that one, no Honeywell and Thales types. 3D Modeling and Textures Almost all maps are 4K High Resolution Exterior is modeled with all details existing in real aircraft. Pilots are visible in external views and turn thir heads slightly to ward camera view Interior modeling has been made paying attention to details in the real life CRJ-700 cockpit. Cabin and Stairs have adjustable lighting Unique Package Features Stairs Rails can be raised and lowered (per customer request) Cockpit shaders slide and rotate as you need them VR Compatibly Package is VR compatible but future enhancements will be added Requirements X-Plane 11 Windows, Mac or Linux 4 GB VRAM Minimum - 8 GB+ VRAM Recommended Download Size: 850 MB Current and Review version: 1.01 (December 20th 2021) Installation Download of the CRJ-700 is 828Mb and it is installed in your Airliner Folder as a 1.55Gb folder. Activation is via the standard authentication Key. There is no Auto-updater by Skunkcrafts for updates, so currently you have to redownload via the X-Plane.OrgStore. Documents Provided are two documents Included with the package. A "QuickStart" Manual that covers the aircraft's layouts and systems, and a "Checklist" with Normal Procedures. A version changelog is also provided. CRJ-700 Changelog.txt AD_Sim_CRJ_Checklist.pdf CRJ-700_Quick_Start_Guide.pdf _____________________ Aircraft Review by Stephen Dutton 10th January 2022 Copyright©2022: X-Plane Reviews Review System Specifications:  Computer System: Windows - Intel Core i7 6700K CPU 4.00GHz / 64bit -32 Gb single 1067 Mhz DDR4 2133 - ASUS GeForce GTX 1080 8Gb - Samsung Evo M2 2TB SSD - Sound : Yamaha Speakers YST-M200SP Software: - Windows 10 - X-Plane 11.55 Plugins: Global SFD plugin US$30.00 : Environment Engine by xEnviro US$69.90 : RK Apps XPRealistic v2 - US$34.99 Scenery or Aircraft - EKCH - FlyTampa Copenhagen XP (X-Plane.OrgStore) - US$31.00 - EGLL - Airport London-Heathrow by Aerosoft (X-Plane.OrgStore) - US$29.95 (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
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