Third-party developers had a couple of interesting reveals to share about upcoming add-ons for Microsoft Flight Simulator, including an aircraft and an airport.
We start with Black Square, which you may know for its excellent "Steam Gauge Overhaul" series, providing an update on the Beechcraft 60 Duke announced last summer.
We learn on the Just Flight website that the piston version of the aircraft will support engine pre-heating, while you may want to deploy the external power cart when it's cold outside if you're flying the turbine version. This will mitigate the effect of the temperature on the draining of the battery.
Cabin temperature will also have a considerable effect on the instruments thanks to modeled friction for the needles. They will be sticky in frigid temperatures, and may need you to tap on the gauges.
There will be more panel options to match the upholstery from the 70s, 80s, 90s and 2000s. Each also has a different level of cleanliness.
Looking at the exterior, it'll include removable pitot-static and engine covers with 'Remove Before Flight' streamers that will blow in the wind.
In terms of avionics, the aircraft will support autopilot control for the KNS-81 RNAV Navigator.
The engines will simulate the PT6A's P2.5 bleed valves, also enabling more engine failures. Both the turbine and the piston versions of the aircraft will have over 250 possible failures.
The release window is now scheduled for the first half of April 2024 and you'll be able to buy either version separately or both together in a "generously discounted" bundle."
Moving on to scenery, Sundowners Simulation released a picture of its next airport, and it's Naval Air Station Key West (KNQX) in the United States.
This is particularly appropriate considering that the airbase is the home of the VFC-111 "Sun Downers" adversary squadron. It also comes with good timing considering that we're soon getting the F-5E Tiger II by SC Designs.
This may even be of interest to pilots who prefer passenger and general aviation flights, as the default version of the KNQX is in plain view when approaching and taking off from the nearby Key West Airport, and having a good rendition of the airbase would help with immersion.
As usual, you can count on TechRaptor's daily Microsoft Flight Simulator news coverage to be kept up to date on what's happening within the sim's flourishing but complex add-on industry.
