Today was the second day of FlightSimExpo, which means that we get plenty of interesting news about upcoming Microsoft Flight Simulator add-ons.
We start with BlueBird Simulations, which released new screenshots of their upcoming Boeing 757, providing a look at the flight deck and external model. We also learn that a video is coming in a few days.
Next, TFDi Designs opened pre-orders of their McDonnell Douglas MD-11. You can reserve your copy at the developer's store for $80. Pre-orders include both cargo and passenger variants, plus the extended simulation pack, which will be priced at $85 in total after release. You'll also be able to download the aircraft a week before release. The launch is expected in late 2023.
Here's what the aircraft promises, alongside a gallery of screenshots.
Cockpit
Real life measurements and photos were used to create 4K textures, custom animations, and a high quality cockpit model. Visual elements like individual spoiler panels, aileron droop, and physically accurate cockpit mechanisms bring the aircraft to life.Cabin
Along with a high quality cockpit, we have also modeled a high detail passenger cabin.Systems
FMS
An advanced flight management system simulation allows SID, STAR, and airway support, performance management, custom waypoints, and more via an updateable database.AFS
A fully simulated autoflight system provides advanced and realistic guidance throughout FMS-managed or pilot-managed flight. LSAS and optional RCWS provide assistance during hand-flown maneuveurs in this majestic tri-jet.Onboard Systems
Electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and fuel systems have been comprehensively recreated using maintenance and flight manuals. Both manual and automatic modes are simulated, operating the advanced onboard systems seemlessly.Displays
From display computer to CRT, each step of the display process has been meticulously designed to replicate the behavior of the aircraft. This includes recreating the CRT startup process and the shuffling of screens as their respective DEU provides output.EXTENDING SIMULATION
Customize your aircraft
Engine Options
The TFDi Design MD-11 is a highly versatile aircraft that offers both PW (Pratt & Whitney) and GE (General Electric) engine options. You can choose the engine that most accurately represents the real world operations you are simulating and expect to see and feel differences in the aircraft.Customer Options
In addition to the engine options, the TFDi Design MD-11 offers various customer options that further shape the experience. An example of this is the engine tape display option, which modifies the EAD to show engine performance information in a line, rather than the conventional dial.People or Parcels
With the cargo variant, the passenger cabin becomes a cargo hold. Along with this comes changes in the flight deck and systems to reflect the differences in each variant.Built-in Failures
Exclusive to the Extended Simulation PackageWe extend simulation beyond standard procedures by allowing random and operational failures, introducing a level of unpredictability to the aircraft's systems. You may encounter unexpected failures that require quick thinking and problem-solving skills. This realistic simulation of random failures enhances the overall experience, making each flight unique and challenging.
Additionally, the simulation includes partial circuit breaker functionality. Pilots can interact with the circuit breakers, simulating the process of troubleshooting system issues. A failures management panel will also allow you to share control of failures in your simulation with a friend remotely.
Militech Simulation announced another relevant aircraft, the iconic Boeing CH-47 Chinook tandem rotor helicopter. Release is planned for Q3 2023.
The Chinook will be by far our most detailed product (3D modeling - both internally and externally). Initially, the -D version will be released (analog cockpit), but glass cockpit variant, as well as passenger transport variant are planned.
SimWorks Studios released new screenshots and information about its upcoming Pilatus PC-12. Interestingly, now all versions of the aircraft will be released in the same package.
A few weeks back, we talked about how we are going to break the PC-12 into two major packs to facilitate our development pace. In particular, the 5-bladed variant and commuter version were planned to release as a free update to the base aircraft later down the road. That is no longer the case – all three models, commuter, cargo and executive will be available in the initial release!
Additionally, we have further refined the flight model and particularly the flap behavior. You can now fly into the airport in a steep nose-down approach attitude that is very close to the real one. Unfortunately, we can't match the plane's pitch behavior during deployment of the flaps due to the flight model lacking sufficient control, but we have the approach right which is utilitarian.
Last but not least, some systems were completed. The pressurization system works properly in both automatic and manual mode. In the latter, you will directly control the pressurization of the cabin yourself, so make sure you keep an eye on the gauges to not hurt your ears! Another completed system are the de-icing boots, which will move in the correct sequence and timings. Every day that passes, we are constantly refining our systems work and moving closer to the finish line.
More screenshots come from DC Designs, showing the upcoming F-4 Phantom.
Drzewiecki Design, showcased new screenshots of the upcoming Everett Paine Field (KPAE) in the United States, alongside its famous Boeing factory. Interestingly, we learn that release is planned by the end of August.
More screenshots come from Pyreegue, showcasing East Midlands Airport (EGNX) in the UK.
Last, but not least, CloudSurf Asia Simulations released Mactan-Cebu International Airport (RPVM) in the Philippines. It's currently available on Simmarket for $17.54 offering the following perks.
- Massively Customly built from scratch for MSFS
- Full custom objects specifically modeled for RPVM
- Fully Modelled Terminal 1 & 2 (With Interior for T2 and half for T1)
- Fully Modelled General Aviation and Military Hangars
- Custom High-Quality Parking stands, Ground Textures, Ground Signs, and Markings
- Full PBR textures across all 3D Models (2k & 4k)
- VATSIM Ready and all Airport data up-to-date
- Custom Animated Jetway specifically modeled for RPVM to maximize immersion
- Modelled Hotels and Resorts around Mactan Island (Including Mactan Newtown, Arterra, Sheraton, Shari-La, and more)
- Free future updates for bug fixes & compatibility
Microsoft Flight Simulator is currently available for PC, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox Cloud Gaming, including Game Pass. If you'd like to learn more, you should stay tuned on TechRaptor as we have daily Microsoft Flight Simulator news to keep you updated on the many add-ons coming and released for the sim. We have also recently interviewed Microsoft's Jorg Neumann about the Antonov An-225 "Mriya" and iniBuilds' CEO Ubaid Mussa on the work of the popular third-party developer. If you're interested in reviews, you can check out Orbx's Stockholm Arlanda and Oslo Gardermoen Airports, iniBuilds' New York-JFK Airport, and RHDSimulations' Boeing 767-300ER.
