Several exciting developments have unfolded in a significant update for Microsoft Flight Simulator enthusiasts. Leading the way is the launch of the Airbus A300 by iniBuilds, a much-awaited addition to the third-party aircraft options in the simulator. Available for purchase from the developer's store at $44.79, the Airbus A300 is more than just a new model to fly; it's a meticulously replicated machine with deep systems modeling.
Expect to navigate the skies with an advanced custom Flight Management System, complete with procedures for departures and arrivals, secondary flight plans, and robust vertical and lateral navigation capabilities. The A300 further boasts precise simulations of its various onboard systems, such as hydraulics, electrics, pressurization, fuel operations, and even the unique trim tank functionality specific to the A300-600R.
Maintenance elements like engine oil levels and tire wear are intricately coded alongside cautionary systems that react to inadequate upkeep. RNAV capabilities and Autoland features are also unbelievably realistic. Pilots will be pleased with the finely adjusted flight model that captures the authentic flying behavior of the A300-600R, including its performance specifications and its General Electric GE CF6-80C2A1 engines' distinctive attributes (with another engine variant by Pratt and Whitney touted to arrive shortly).
Visually, the aircraft does not disappoint. State-of-the-art PBR textures of up to 8K quality envelop the model, with performance texture packs available for less powerful systems. The exterior model of the passenger and freighter variants of the A300-600R has been revamped, complete with fun additions and reactive elements that showcase the aircraft's intricacies in various operational scenarios.
The auditory experience has been crafted with equal attention, bringing the aircraft to life with a 3D sound environment that features recordings from the actual aircraft. The characteristic "Buzzsaw" sound of the CF6 engines has been carefully balanced to enhance the realism for pilots.
The feature-rich Electronic Flight Bag is a treat for efficiency and convenience lovers, integrating Navigraph and SimBrief, among other performance calculators and load management tools. The EFB also allows for panel state saving, ensuring a personalized flying experience.
As for the Embraer Phenom 100 created by Cockspur, this business jet has finished alpha testing and proceeded into beta. While no specific launch date has been shared, the ambitious $26.99 price point indicates its approach. A bespoke G1000 NXi, WASM-simulated FADEC, and a finely-tuned flight model are some of the hallmarks of this aircraft, alongside visible effects of passenger and baggage weight and immersive sound recorded directly from the aircraft. Aiding the pilot is a checklist that appears discretely from the side pocket, and the aircraft has been shaped with the invaluable input of real-world pilots.
Lastly, developer Fly2High is working on two new airports enthusiasts can look forward to: Lubbock Preston Smith International Airport in the United States and Rafael Núñez International Airport in Cartagena, Colombia. Progress is well underway, completing 80% and 70%, respectively.
Though images of these airports are not yet available, aviation simulation fans should stay tuned. These daily updates from TechRaptor are your go-to source for all things Microsoft Flight Simulator, and the sky is the limit for what's to come.