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    • Cameron
      ORBX, a renowned flight simulation software developer, has unveiled their latest release, "Landmarks Brisbane," designed specifically for X-Plane 12. This remarkable add-on package offers virtual pilots an opportunity to explore the vibrant Australian city of Brisbane with unprecedented realism and attention to detail.
      "Landmarks Brisbane" showcases over 100 of the city's most iconic buildings and landmarks in exquisite detail. From the majestic Story Bridge to the enchanting Wheel of Brisbane and the captivating Queensland Cultural Centre, each structure has been meticulously recreated to capture its unique essence. The use of high-resolution textures, custom-designed autogen, and meticulously crafted night lighting further enhances the immersive experience, bringing the city to life like never before.
      Employing cutting-edge 3D modeling and texturing techniques, ORBX has ensured that Brisbane is portrayed with utmost accuracy and authenticity. Every architectural detail and characteristic of the city has been captured, allowing virtual pilots to navigate the cityscape with a remarkable sense of realism. The inclusion of custom-designed Heliports adds an extra layer of versatility and excitement to the experience.
      "Landmarks Brisbane" is now available for purchase on ORBX's official website, catering to X-Plane 12 enthusiasts. By immersing themselves in this meticulously crafted virtual rendition of Brisbane, flight simulators can explore the city's iconic landmarks and revel in the beauty of this Australian metropolis.
    • Cameron
      Aerobask is celebrating their ten-year anniversary with the release of the DA42 NG for X-Plane 12. This milestone release comes a decade after their very first payware aircraft, the DA42, introduced in 2013.
      True to their reputation, Aerobask has equipped the DA42 NG with an array of custom systems that enhance the immersive experience. Notable features include synthetic vision technology, a simulated oxygen system, fully functional breakers, and more. The complete feature list offers an extensive overview of the aircraft's capabilities.
      The DA42 NG boasts an integrated Laminar Garmin G1000, complete with custom EIS (Engine Indication System) and annunciations. It also incorporates the expertise of OscarPilote to provide an advanced synthetic vision technology. The touch screen features and optional GCU476 2D keypad further contribute to the aircraft's user-friendly interface. Additionally, the meticulously simulated oxygen system and ice protection system add to the realism and depth of the aircraft's systems.
      Aerobask's dedication to detail extends to the visual aspects as well. The DA42 NG features a superb 3D model, with a fully functional virtual cockpit designed for smooth operation and compatibility with virtual reality (VR) systems. The high-resolution PBR (Physically Based Rendering) textures enhance the visual fidelity, while effects like windshield reflections, rain, and frost contribute to the immersive experience. The flight model, meticulously crafted by X-Aerodynamics, provides accurate and realistic flight characteristics, including smooth wingflex.
      To further enhance the audio experience, the DA42 NG incorporates a full FMOD environment created by Daniela Rodriguez Careri. This includes accurate doppler, distance attenuation, and flyby effects, as well as a simulated headset. The in-game volume control allows for seamless adjustments without pausing the simulation.
      Additional features include comprehensive documentation, an Avitab tablet with an integrated options panel, a detachable and VR-friendly 2D options panel, six included liveries, and a 2K textures pack for lower-spec computers. The convenient auto-updater, Skunkcraft, ensures that the aircraft remains up to date.
      For those interested in adding the Aerobask rendition of the Diamond DA42 NG to their collection, it is now available for purchase on the X-Plane.org Store for $39.95.
    • Cameron
      ToLiss, the renowned developer of Airbus aircraft for X-Plane, has recently announced their next project, the A320 NEO. This upcoming addition to their impressive lineup, which already includes the A319, A321, and A340, has generated excitement within the flight simulation community.
      While limited information has been released thus far, ToLiss provided a teaser picture showcasing the completed exterior modeling of the aircraft, including the distinctive new engines that set the NEO apart from other A320 variants.
      The details surrounding the A320 NEO's cockpit remain undisclosed. It is unclear whether ToLiss will introduce a completely new cockpit design or utilize elements from their existing A321 and A319 models. Additionally, the availability of both CFM Leap and PW1000G engine options in ToLiss' NEO is yet to be confirmed.
      Although an exact release date has not been announced, it is anticipated that the A320 NEO will be available sometime in March of this year, eagerly awaited by aviation enthusiasts and virtual pilots alike.
    • Cameron
      Colimata has recently released the third version of their Concorde add-on, specifically designed for X-Plane 12 (not compatible with X-Plane 11). This release marks a significant upgrade in terms of visual enhancements, flight model accuracy, and overall functionality.
      The Concorde, an iconic supersonic passenger aircraft operated by British Airways and Air France from 1976 to 2003, holds a remarkable place in aviation history. Initially developed as a joint venture between the British and French governments in the 1960s, the Concorde showcased a sleek delta-wing design and achieved impressive speeds of up to Mach 2, twice the speed of sound. Its groundbreaking capabilities allowed it to complete transatlantic flights, such as from London to New York, in just over three hours.
      The Colimata Concorde for X-Plane 12 offers an incredibly detailed and realistic simulation of this legendary aircraft. The 3D cockpit provides an immersive experience, featuring front, center, roof, side, and engineering panels. With 4K texturing and over 1000 clickable regions, the cockpit delivers a high level of interactivity. Additionally, the cockpit incorporates more than 700 custom lights, including warning lamps, night lighting, and exterior lights. The aircraft offers both PRO and STANDARD complexity settings to suit different user preferences.
      The external model of the Colimata Concorde is equally impressive, with meticulous attention to detail. It accurately represents the aircraft's exterior features, including moving engine parts, opening doors, and service panels. Notably, the engine cowl doors can be opened, and the primary and secondary nozzles are animated, providing a realistic visual experience. The external model utilizes PBR (Physically Based Rendering) technology, ensuring visually stunning 4K textures.
      The flight model of the Colimata Concorde has been refined to provide an authentic experience during takeoff, landing, and both subsonic and supersonic flight phases. The simulation also incorporates realistic thrust behavior and trim fuel pumping, along with automatic fuel trimming facilitated by the Virtual Engineer feature.
      Immersive sound design further enhances the Concorde experience, utilizing FMOD 3D sound technology. The add-on includes dozens of sound effects, audio advice from Copilot, Engineer, and Pilot, and various sound spaces, creating a captivating audio environment. The volumes are adjustable to suit individual preferences.
      With full VR compatibility, the Colimata Concorde allows users to experience the aircraft in virtual reality, providing a heightened sense of immersion. The add-on offers extensive graphical user interface (GUI) functionality, enabling route loading, flight preparation, aircraft management, and interaction with the virtual flight engineer. The GUI is fully scalable and can be popped out for convenience. A dedicated Checklists window and Quick Access GUI further streamline the user experience.
      The package includes additional features such as a 3D passenger cabin, two liveries, and access to a wide selection of free liveries. A comprehensive set of manuals, including installation and setup, essential guides, full manual, cold and dark startup guide, and navigation tutorial, assist users in mastering the intricacies of the Concorde simulation.
    • Cameron
      Taimodels has recently launched their latest creation: Sacramento International Airport (KSMF) for X-Plane 11 and 12.
      Sacramento International Airport, ranked as the sixth busiest airport in California, sees an average of 11 million passengers annually as of November 2022. With Southwest Airlines holding the majority market share, followed by American Airlines and Delta, KSMF provides a range of flight options for travelers. Popular domestic destinations from KSMF include San Diego, Las Vegas, and Denver, while international flights connect passengers to Vancouver, Guadalajara, León, and Mexico City.
      The Taimodels scenery for KSMF showcases meticulous attention to detail, allowing virtual pilots to immerse themselves in the airport environment. Key features include SAM jetways for seamless aircraft connections, high-quality Physically Based Rendering (PBR) textures for realistic object and ground appearances, and optimized performance for a smooth experience. The scenery also incorporates autogen elements around the airport and a ground traffic plugin with cars and trucks, adding to the overall realism. X-Plane 12 users will appreciate the inclusion of weather textures, enhancing the visual fidelity of their virtual flights.
      The Taimodels rendition of Sacramento International Airport is available for purchase on SimMarket at an affordable price point of approximately $21. This add-on offers aviation enthusiasts the opportunity to explore and enjoy the authentic atmosphere of KSMF within the X-Plane simulator environment.
    • Cameron
      FlightFactor has rolled out a beta update (v1.7.01) for their popular A350 add-on. This latest update focuses on refining the X-Plane 12 version, bringing various improvements to enhance the overall user experience and ensure compatibility with the latest iteration of the flight simulator.
      One of the key enhancements in this update is the fine-tuning of the pitch behavior specifically for X-Plane 12. By aligning the flight dynamics of the A350 with the improved capabilities and performance of X-Plane 12, FlightFactor aims to deliver a more realistic and immersive flying experience to virtual pilots.
      The update also addresses compatibility issues, particularly related to lights and reflections, to ensure optimal visual fidelity within the simulator. FlightFactor has also resolved a previously identified problem with the beacon light. Furthermore, visual issues associated with certain knobs have been rectified, further enhancing the overall realism and visual appeal of the aircraft.
      The FlightFactor A350 XWB Advanced remains a highly regarded add-on, known for its meticulous attention to detail and advanced systems simulation. The virtual cockpit boasts high-resolution graphics, while the inclusion of ground equipment and realistic implementation of Standard Instrument Departures (SIDs) and Standard Terminal Arrival Routes (STARS) contribute to an authentic Airbus A350 experience.
      Pilots can expect a comprehensive systems simulation, including custom failures, an Airbus electronic checklist system, and a fully customized ECAM monitoring system. The A350's fly-by-wire technology has been faithfully replicated, allowing for a realistic implementation of the normal laws. While a few non-precision approach modes are currently excluded, FlightFactor has ensured the inclusion of all Airbus autopilot modes, enabling pilots to fully utilize the aircraft's capabilities.
      Additional features of the FlightFactor A350 include a custom 3D stereo engine sound system, delivering a heightened audio experience, and an interactive flight attendant helper, adding an extra layer of authenticity to virtual flights. The add-on comes with seven meticulously designed liveries, providing users with options to personalize their aircraft.
      To access the latest update and enjoy the improved features of the FlightFactor A350 XWB Advanced, users can visit the official X-Plane.Org Store.
    • Cameron
      Eagle County Regional Airport (KEGE) has received a makeover with the latest update from Xometry Design. This update brings compatibility with X-Plane 12, unlocking a whole new level of visual realism and immersion for flight enthusiasts.
      Nestled in the heart of Colorado, Eagle County Regional Airport shines as the second busiest airport in the state during the thrilling ski season. Its strategic location, in close proximity to world-renowned skiing resorts, makes it a favored gateway for winter sports enthusiasts. Notably, EGE boasts better landing conditions compared to Aspen, offering pilots improved accessibility and lower minimums.
      While scheduled passenger services fluctuate with the seasons, private flights continue to soar. Eagle County Regional Airport is proud to host the esteemed Vail Valley Jet Center, one of the premier fixed-base private operators in the United States. With its state-of-the-art facilities, including eight heated hangars and over 30 acres of overnight storage, the Vail Valley Jet Center provides top-notch service and planeside vehicle staging.
      The recent update from Xometry Design takes the EGE experience to new heights. With full compatibility for X-Plane 12, users can now enjoy the next-generation visuals and enhanced performance offered by the latest iteration of the popular flight simulator. The developers have painstakingly crafted a realistic terminal interior, ensuring an immersive experience for pilots and virtual travelers alike.
      Furthermore, Xometry Design has gone above and beyond with a comprehensive object rework, resulting in a more detailed and lifelike rendition of Eagle County Regional Airport. Custom jetways have been implemented, further adding to the authenticity of the airport environment. To take advantage of X-Plane 12's impressive rendering capabilities, a customized mesh with an Ortho4Xp patch has been integrated, showcasing the stunning 3D trees and bushes that breathe life into the scenery.
      Aviation enthusiasts and virtual pilots can now immerse themselves in the enriched atmosphere of Eagle County Regional Airport (KEGE) with Xometry Design's latest update. To experience this enhanced rendition firsthand, visit the official iniBuilds Store today.
       
    • Cameron
      Hot Start has released an update for their popular Challenger 650 aircraft, bringing it to version 1.7. The update includes several new features, bug fixes, and improvements. Here are some of the highlights:
      Two-Pilot Shared Cockpit: The update implements a two-pilot shared cockpit feature, allowing multiple users to fly together in the same aircraft. A quick start guide is provided to assist users in setting up and using this feature.
      X-Plane 12 Support: The Challenger 650 now fully supports X-Plane 12 on all platforms. Users can enjoy the enhanced features and performance of the latest version of X-Plane.
      VHF COM Frequency Format: The update ensures that the VHF COM frequency formats now require the leading '1' digit to be entered. However, omitting the decimal point is still allowed.
      Descent Advisory: If the flight plan does not contain suitable descent constraints for the FMS to anchor a descent, the FMS will provide a green "DES" circle on the flight plan and a "DES ADVISORY" in the MFD VNAV window. This is an estimated point for starting the descent to reach 1,500 ft AGL at 10 nm from the destination airport.
      Removal of Custom Atmospheric Model on X-Plane 12: The custom CL650 atmospheric model has been removed for X-Plane 12, as X-Plane 12 now implements temperature effects on altimetry natively. Temperature effects are always enabled in X-Plane 12.
      MIC Selector Audio: Even if the monitoring pushbutton is deselected, the MIC selector will enable audio for the selected radio. Users will still hear the audio from the radio if the MIC selector is set to that radio.
      HUD Improvements: The HUD FMAs (Flight Mode Annunciators) will no longer display the speed target for FLC or the FPM target for VS, as the real HUD does not show them.
      Display of Secondary Flight Plan: When the CDU is on SEC FPLN (Secondary Flight Plan) pages or related paths, the on-side PFD (Primary Flight Display) and MFD (Multi-Function Display) will show the secondary flight plan on their map displays only.
      These updates and improvements enhance the functionality and realism of the Challenger 650 aircraft in X-Plane 11 and X-Plane 12. Users can download the update from X-Aviation to enjoy the latest features and fixes.
    • Cameron
      Boundless has released their rendition of Beauvais-Tillé Airport (LFOB) for both X-Plane 11 and X-Plane 12. As the tenth busiest airport in France, Beauvais-Tillé Airport serves as a popular destination for low-cost carriers, including Ryanair and WizzAir, which use it as a base for their Parisian operations.
      Located just 85 km from Paris, the airport is often referred to as "Paris-Beauvais Airport" due to its proximity to the famous French city. With lower landing fees, less congestion, and a convenient location away from the hustle and bustle, it has become the preferred choice for many charters and low-cost carriers. The airport has experienced significant growth since Ryanair embraced Beauvais in 1997, leading to the construction of a second terminal in 2010 to accommodate the increased traffic.
      In addition to Ryanair and WizzAir, Beauvais-Tillé Airport is also served by Air Moldova with flights to Chisinau, HiSky with flights to Baia Mare and Chisinau, and EasyJet with flights to Lisbon (with flights to Milan and Nice to be introduced in mid-2023).
      The Boundless rendition of Beauvais-Tillé Airport features an accurate depiction of the airport, including the real-world layout. The scenery includes up-to-date high-definition orthoimagery, 4K photorealistic textures, PBR textures on the ground and buildings for enhanced realism, dynamic night lighting based on real-life color tones, 3D vegetation and grass, nearby houses and farms, rain and seasonal effects on the ground (exclusive to X-Plane 12), custom high-definition PBR vehicles, and fully accurate ground markings with realistic wear and tear.
      The scenery can be purchased directly from Boundless for approximately $17.05 and requires a minimum of 880 MB of free disk space for installation.
    • Cameron
      Aviotek Simulation Software has released their highly anticipated rendition of Frankfurt International Airport (EDDF) for both X-Plane 11 and X-Plane 12. As the busiest airport in Germany and the fourth busiest in Europe, Frankfurt Airport handles an impressive average of 69 million passengers annually. It boasts an extensive route network, offering over 300 destinations across five continents, making it the airport with the most direct routes in the world.
      Frankfurt Airport serves as the main hub for Lufthansa, Germany's national carrier, which operates a comprehensive route network both within Europe and on transcontinental flights. Additionally, Lufthansa CityLine, the regional subsidiary of Lufthansa, also operates from FRA with its fleet of regional aircraft. The airport also serves as a focus city for several low-cost carriers, including Eurowings, Eurowings Discover, Condor, and TUI fly Deutschland, offering many seasonal routes to popular destinations in Spain, Greece, and Portugal.
      The Aviotek Simulation Software rendition of Frankfurt Airport features a high-quality depiction of the airport, including detailed apron and terminal buildings. The layout is updated to reflect the current airport configuration, and the scenery includes custom animated jetways (compatible with the SAM plugin), accurate taxiway and runway signage, over 15 square kilometers of hand-placed high-resolution orthoimagery, custom animated airport vehicles and highway traffic, more than 150,000 hand-placed custom objects, realistic terrain and runway profiles created with specialized software, realistic high dynamic range night lighting, a wide variety of ground service equipment and custom airport vehicles, and accurately positioned static aircraft.
      The scenery can be purchased from Orbx Direct for approximately $27.33 and requires approximately 11.22 GB of free disk space for installation. However, the developer advises potential users about potential issues with X-Plane 12, as the platform is still under active development and things may not work as expected. Customer support will only be provided for X-Plane 11 until the compatibility with X-Plane 12 is fully established.
    • Cameron
      TaiModels has released their highly anticipated rendition of Heathrow Airport (EGLL) for both X-Plane 11 and X-Plane 12. As the largest airport in London and the eighth-busiest in Europe in terms of total passenger traffic, Heathrow welcomes an impressive average of 80 million passengers each year.
      The airport serves as a major hub for British Airways and Virgin Atlantic, with a comprehensive route network that encompasses both domestic and international destinations, offering connectivity to various parts of the world.
      TaiModels' rendition of Heathrow Airport showcases meticulous attention to detail, featuring high-quality models and textures with PBR (Physically Based Rendering) materials. The scenery includes interior details for Terminal 5 (T5) and Terminal 2 (T2), ensuring a realistic and immersive experience. Additionally, the scenery incorporates performance optimizations to maintain smooth performance, SAM (Scenery Animation Manager) animated jetways for seamless aircraft boarding, compatibility with Ortho4Xp's flat options, autogen surrounding the airport for enhanced realism, a ground traffic plugin to simulate airport vehicle movement, and weather textures specifically designed for X-Plane 12.
      If you are interested in acquiring the TaiModels Heathrow Airport scenery, it is available for purchase at a price of approximately $28.00.
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