Cameron

FlightFactor has recently released a compatibility update for their highly detailed A350 Advanced aircraft, making it compatible with X-Plane 12. This update primarily focuses on ensuring the aircraft works smoothly with the SimBrief flight plan downloader. It is important to note that the A350 Advanced is currently in the beta stage for X-Plane 12. While this update may not introduce any significant new features to the aircraft, it is not surprising considering the recent updates for FlightFactor's 767 and 757 models. Unfortunately, there is still no news available regarding the progress of their upcoming 787 aircraft. However, it is worth keeping an eye out for possible sneak peeks in the future. For existing owners of the A350, the beta version can be obtained from the X-Updater, a tool provided by FlightFactor. To use the aircraft in X-Plane 12, make sure to enable the "BETA" option in the updater. If you haven't purchased the A350 yet, you can find it on the X-Plane Store.

FlightFactor has recently released updates for their Boeing 757 and 767 models, introducing several fixes and enhancements. These updates, implemented during the beta stage for X-Plane 12, aim to address any imperfections and provide an improved flying experience for users. FlightFactor's dedicated team has been diligently working on various tasks to enhance the performance and functionality of these remarkable aircraft. The updates are now available for users who own the current versions of the 757 V2 Professional and 767 ER Professional, and are provided free of charge. The changelog for the latest updates includes the following changes: FlightFactor 757 - Version 2.6.2: Added a glow effect to the FPDS displays for X-Plane 12. Fixed the camera position for the 753 variant in X-Plane 12. Rectified 3D reflections in displays for X-Plane 12. Addressed various issues with lamps in X-Plane 12. Resolved the hovering gear problem in X-Plane 12. Fixed a possible steering issue in X-Plane 12. Improved the behavior of the AT SPD mode in X-Plane 12. Updated the billboard effect for external lights in X-Plane 12. FlightFactor 767 - Version 1.6.2: Added a glow effect to the FPDS displays for X-Plane 12. Rectified 3D reflections in displays for X-Plane 12. Addressed various issues with lamps in X-Plane 12. Fixed the tiller animation issue in X-Plane 12. Resolved a possible steering issue in X-Plane 12. Fixed the dome light issue in the cold and dark state. Improved the behavior of the AT SPD mode in X-Plane 12. Updated the billboard effect for external lights in X-Plane 12. Made the chart light knob an override knob (400 variant). These updates from FlightFactor aim to enhance the overall performance, visuals, and functionality of the Boeing 757 and 767 models, providing users with an even more immersive and enjoyable flying experience.

SimHeaven has recently launched their highly regarded X-World America scenery for X-Plane 12. This comprehensive package, available for download, occupies a size of 7.4 GB and expands to 13.8 GB when extracted. The announcement was made through a post on their website, where they highlighted the following: The X-World series, which includes popular sceneries like X-Europe, X-America, and more, continues its success in X-Plane 12. Unlike traditional autogen rules, SimHeaven adopts a different approach by utilizing OSM (OpenStreetMap) data along with Microsoft building footprints to accurately place objects in the scenery. This meticulous method results in a more realistic and immersive look and feel, enhancing the overall visual experience for users. SimHeaven's X-World America scenery offers a vast coverage of the American continent, enriching the virtual flying experience with detailed and accurate representations of various locations. By incorporating real-world data, the scenery provides a heightened level of authenticity, capturing the essence of the American landscape.

The highly popular third-party addon, xOrganizer, has now been officially released for X-Plane 12 and is readily available through the X-Plane.Org Store. xOrganizer is a software tool designed to provide accessibility and peace of mind to X-Plane users by assisting them in organizing their files. While structuring X-Plane files can be straightforward, it can present challenges for new users on their simulation journey. xOrganizer helps users overcome this roadblock by offering assistance in organizing various aspects, including the scenerypackages.ini file and ensuring that all aircraft are up to date. Beyond maintaining the proper order of scenery files, xOrganizer also features a scenery map that showcases the installed scenery packages and the package currently being utilized by X-Plane. Presented through a user-friendly interface, xOrganizer provides an overview of plugins, aircraft, and scenery, granting users the option to choose whether or not they require the assistance of the software. Furthermore, the tool offers customization options, enabling users to tailor their experience for added convenience and accessibility. A comprehensive feature list can be found on their store page. For those interested in upgrading or purchasing xOrganizer, the product is available on the X-Plane.Org Store. Existing v2 customers can check their account page for a discount code that can be applied during checkout, providing an incentive for their continued support and upgrade to the latest version.

Geo Reality Design has recently launched version 2 of its Global Forests addon for X-Plane 12, aimed at enhancing the immersive experience of the simulator by revamping and enriching X-Plane's vegetation. Global Forests 2 covers three major regions: Europe, North America, and Asia-Oceania. This updated version seamlessly integrates with Ortho4XP, terrain, and X-Plane 12's seasonal variations, offering a comprehensive solution for enhancing the environment. The Global Forests v2 addon employs over 400 .for files, which leverage various tree types, vegetation, and density data. By utilizing real-world information, such as vegetation height and density derived from global map data, the addon creates a vibrant and dynamic world, appealing particularly to bush pilots and users who seek a heightened level of realism. The addon's ability to provide a living world feel based on real-world data adds a new dimension to the simulation experience. Global Forests v2 is available for purchase on the X-Plane.ORG store for $15.00. For a more in-depth look at the addon and to see additional footage, viewers can check out the video available on Geo Reality Design's YouTube page.

Vertical Simulations has recently announced the release of a free update for KSYR (Syracuse Hancock International Airport) in X-Plane 12. Existing owners of the X-Plane 11 version can access the updated version through their account page on the Vertical Simulations website (https://verticalsims.com/). Additionally, customers who purchased the original scenery from SimMarket and the Xplane.org store will also have access to the update. In the announcement, Vertical Simulations highlighted several improvements and changes listed in the changelog for the new update. These include replacing custom trees with X-Plane 12 default 3D placeholder trees, adjusting light parameters to address XP12 lighting issues, exporting the scenery with WED V2.5 to ensure compatibility with XP12, correcting the airline assignment from AYA to AAY for Allegiant, removing 2D grass, adding weather and ice-snow effects, and including airline names on gates. By providing this free update, Vertical Simulations demonstrates their commitment to enhancing the quality and realism of KSYR in X-Plane 12. Existing customers can take advantage of these improvements, which contribute to a more immersive and accurate simulation experience at Syracuse Hancock International Airport.

The process of porting complex addons from X-Plane 11 to X-Plane 12 has posed challenges for developers. However, Fabrice Kauffmann has stepped in to assist with this transition by releasing a helpful software tool, available for free. This software scans OBJ, LUA, and SND files to identify obsolete datarefs. By utilizing Fabrice Kauffmann's tool, addon developers can save significant time and effort when updating their addons for X-Plane 12. The availability of this free software tool is expected to contribute to the growth and improvement of X-Plane 12. Its functionality assists developers in navigating the process of migrating their existing addons, ensuring compatibility with the latest version of the flight simulator. Developers can access the tool on GitHub, and it is compatible with Windows 10/11. Fabrice Kauffmann's contribution to the X-Plane community demonstrates a commitment to supporting the development and evolution of addons for X-Plane 12. By streamlining the migration process, developers can focus more on enhancing their addons and delivering a seamless experience to users of the latest simulator version.

Toliss, a well-known developer in the X-Plane community, has released an update for their popular Airbus range, specifically the A319 and A321 variants, to make them compatible with X-Plane 12. This exciting update brings enhanced functionality and new features to the aircraft. For users who already own the A319 and A321 in X-Plane 11, the update is available at a discounted price of $10.99 each through the X-Plane.org store. Toliss has assured customers that the discount will be automatically applied to their accounts. The A319 has received various notable additions with this update. These include XP12 adaptations, a custom engine model that provides more realistic thrust and fuel flow values, and introduces new engine failure modes. Additionally, a new engine type, CFM56-5B7, has been implemented to offer increased take-off thrust specifically for high-altitude airports, making it ideal for flying in regions like the Andes. Other improvements include accurate system response circuit breakers, ACARS functionality for direct downloading of Simbrief plans into the flight plan, and the ability to retrieve takeoff data and wind information from the Simbrief flight plan. Similarly, the A321 has also undergone significant updates and incorporates numerous new features. These include XP12 adaptations, a custom engine model for improved realism in terms of thrust and fuel flow, and new engine failure modes. The circuit breakers now feature accurate system response, with over 100 circuit breakers available. ACARS functionality allows for direct downloading of Simbrief plans, retrieval of takeoff data for various runways at the departure airport, and entering wind data from the Simbrief flight plan. The A321 update also introduces an interactive screen called ACP, which enables ground service requests, fuel and passenger changes without using the ISCS. Other additions include EFB (Electronic Flight Bag) on both the captain and co-pilot sides, an FMGS (Flight Management and Guidance System) plan editing overhaul, the availability of database holds, an offset function, new failure modes (including recoverable computer failures), more than 70 new ECAM (Electronic Centralized Aircraft Monitor) messages, animated push buttons in the cockpit, and movable pilot seats and armrests. With these updates and new features, Toliss has demonstrated their dedication to providing an enhanced and immersive experience for users of their Airbus aircraft in X-Plane 12. These additions further elevate the realism and functionality of the A319 and A321, making them even more appealing choices for flight simulation enthusiasts.