HJG - 4th Anniversary Update PART 2

Posted: Monday, May 31, 2010 - 13:16
HJG's 4th anniversary website update PART 2, featuring a number new liveries for their B720, B727, DC8, and DC9 series aircraft for FS2004 and FSX... those files which couldn't be accomodated within the groups recent April website update are now available at the HJG Homepage.

Epic Victory from Lionheart Creations

Posted: Sunday, May 30, 2010 - 2:23
Senior staff reviewer Bert Pieke looks at a unique aircraft that may or may not get off the ground in the commercial world. The Epic Victory released by Lionheart Creations. "This aircraft is classified as a VLJ type aircraft, short for ‘Very Light Jet’. Built for ‘ease of use’ jet flight commuting, this aircraft can take its passengers comfortably from location to location at speeds of 320 KTAS and at altitudes of up to 28,000 feet and with comfort."

"The details are really nicely finished and there is so much to admire, for such a small airplane. Once you get inside, the visual experience continues. The virtual cockpit is beautiful and the seating position makes it feel as if you are sitting in the real thing!"

"The airplane comes with Garmin G1000 avionics, which are very functional and a pleasure to use. The autopilot was new to me, so I spent some time with the manual and also watched a Youtube video recorded by Bill Ortis to learn how to adjust the altitude and set the unit up for an ILS intercept."

"Taking into account that this is an Experimental Aircraft without published flight envelope numbers, it is hard to say with any authority whether this plane flies close to the real thing or not. The Epic Aircraft Factory was involved in the design and provided engineering drawings, so I guess it is truly “as real as it gets”."

"The Epic Victory is a lot of fun to fly and continues to please with its good looks and awesome performance. I love taking it for a city to city flight at double the speed of my piston aircraft and at three times the altitude. The instrumentation is great for IFR. Some airplanes are interesting for a while and then fade away – this one is staying around as one of my personal favorites!"

PMDG J-41 Expansion Pack From FS2Crew Released

Posted: Sunday, May 30, 2010 - 1:23
Bryan York of FS2Crew comments, "The Jetstream Edition of FS2Crew represents the culmination of over five years' of experience developing add-ons in the FS environment. We try to make each new version better than the last. One of the most exciting features of this product is that this is the first time we've been able to interface with a PMDG aircraft directly without having to use simulated mouse clicks or keypresses. It was like having an SDK."

Bryan further comments, "The Jetstream is a tough -and awkward- plane to fly given the constrictions of desktop flying, especially when it comes to reaching certain levers and buttons at critical times. The FS2Crew FO works to alleviate a lot of these problems. He makes flying the J-41 a lot easier."

The PMDG J-41 Edition of FS2Crew includes the following features:
- 100 percent customized and coded from scratch to integrate perfectly with the PMDG J-41.
- Seamless "SDK style" integration with the PMDG J-41.
- Voice control interaction with the flight, cabin and ground crew
- United States, United Kingdom and Eurozone voice sets recorded by real-people.
- FA cabin announcements
- Procedures modeled on a real-world procedures.
Free Bonus features include:
- Free version of FS Video Marshaller
- VC Panel Switcher tool that makes changing VC views in the J-41 much easier.

For more information, PMDG J-41 pilots are cleared via present position direct to the FS2Crew website

NL2000 v4 For FSX

Posted: Sunday, May 30, 2010 - 1:18
The Netherlands 2000 Scenery Design Team proudly announces the release of their NL2000 scenery for FSX. The most important changes in the new version 4.0 are:
- More recent and realistic aerial imagery.
- More realistic water by employing the FSX techniques. Try to make a flight over the Wadden islands.
- Trees and forests placed with autogen to blend more realistically into the environment and perform better.
- Most airports have been adapted to the possibilities of FSX and the airports of Rotterdam (EHRD) and Eindhoven (EHEH) have even been rebuilt from scratch with stunning results.
- The military airports now also have a photo realistic ground layout and for some military airports they offer a choice between an active and a non-active version.

Many additional objects are in place to make your VFR flights more interesting. For example, wind turbine parks and high voltage pylons have been added. All these objects have been converted for optimal performance in FSX. With the modular installation, you only install the parts you want to use. Besides all those improvements, there are also some elements from version 3.0 that are not available in version 4.0 yet. The most important elements are the airports of Schiphol (EHAM), Gilze-Rijen (EHGR) and Woensdrecht (EHWO). They will release those as soon as they are ready. You can also find some of their work in the AVSIM library.

EFB Version 1.1.0 For FSX

Posted: Saturday, May 29, 2010 - 1:45
AivlaSoft is proud to announce the release of a free update to their award-winning utility - Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) for FSX. Version 1.1.0 boasts many new features and improvements in charting, logging, route handling, and in-flight GPS flight plan updates.

EFB runs separate from FSX allowing you to plan your flight and prepare your library and checklists ahead of time. So whether you're at 3500 feet in a Cessna or at FL350 in a Boeing you'll always have the essential information to carry out your flight. Configurable for both single and networked PC setups using SimConnect, EFB connects to your FSX flight dividing it into six profile phases: Origin, Departure, Enroute, Arrival, Approach and Destination.

AivlaSoft invites you to take advantage of their free 30-day full evaluation of EFB.

Super 80 Professional SP2 Released

Posted: Saturday, May 29, 2010 - 1:41
Flight One Sofware, in partnership with Coolsky, have release Service Pack 2 for the Super 80 Professional for FSX. This service pack has rolled up over 80 refinements and fixes since Service Pack 1, making this ultra-relistic representation of the Super 80 even more realistic!

Ultimate Airliners - The Super 80 Professional simulates the latest cockpit upgrade given to the MD-80 series. It includes a full Electronic Flight Deck (EFD) that includes a full EFIS with FMS, TCAS, Systems Display Panel, Engine Display Panel, and many more advanced systems. The Super 80 Pro gives you the high-tech avionics required to fly the precision procedures executed by today's professional pilots. This product includes:
- Full Electronic Flight Instrument System (EFIS).
- Primary Flight Display and Navigation Display (PFD/ND).
- Flight Management System (FMS).
- Traffic alert and Collision Avoidance System (TCAS).
- Includes a Weather radar.
- Aircraft model and virtual cockpit created with 3DSMAX.
- A completely detailed 2D panel
- Integrated Cockpit Training System (ICTS) provides inflight procedure and systems training.

Beechcraft Sundowner For X-Plane 9

Posted: Saturday, May 29, 2010 - 1:26
X-Aviation, in conjunction with Leading Edge Simulations, are pleased to announce the release of the Beechcraft Sundowner for X-Plane 9! The Beechcraft Sundowner C23 is a beautifully crafted aircraft that has had no detail left out! It includes a full 3D cockpit and cabin, complete with ulta-realistic photo-real textures, a complete set of documentation to help you fly along the way, multiple liveries to choose from, a realistic flight model, 3D cabin and instrument lighting, and the manipulator technology that all X-Aviation add-ons are well known for.

The GoFlight Integrated Combination Console System is back

Posted: Friday, May 28, 2010 - 16:53
The GoFlight ICCS (Integrated Combination System) is a great combination panel for all virtual pilots. It includes all the modules required to control navigation and radio frequencies. It can be mounted in a GoFlight rack or in your own cockpit.

Visit the Avsim store today.

DBS Terrain Map For FS2004

Posted: Friday, May 28, 2010 - 11:22
DBS Studio has release a new tool, DBS Terrain Map for FS2004 . Terrain Map represents on a monochromatic display a real terrain relief map before aircraft and can be used in Bush Flying, on approach in hard weather conditions at mountain airports or in any other similar conditions. Terrain map projects a top-down, aircraft oriented view of the scenery terrain and could be zoomed by Range buttons. Terrain map offers both a plain map (MAP mode) or highlighted terrain altitude peaks (PEAK mode). For safe flying use PEAK mode and follow the dark areas on the map, in PEAK mode the dark areas represent from 300 feet below aircraft altitude, light areas represent terrain altitudes above aircraft altitude. DBS Terrain Map for FS2004 presents a special interface that provides the ability to customize it for different tasks, like implementation as a simulator GPS or adapting into a custom panel.

Lubeck from Aerosoft

Posted: Thursday, May 27, 2010 - 4:33
Staff reviewer Robert Mariani isolates a scenery from Aerosoft's German Airports 3, Lubeck-Blankensee. As the other airports included in this title were also reviewed as standalones, this one deserved its moment in the spotlight as well.

"Aerosoft’s version of the Lubeck airport is available for both FS9 and FSX, and according to Aerosoft, “the goal was to provide the community the best possible model of the airport.”"

"The scenery includes only the airport, which is rather small, but covered in detail. The scenery of the airport itself is very detailed and includes photorealistic ground textures and numerous custom buildings at the airport. In addition, the scenery comes with the small program called EDHL Traffic, which configures AES."

"The textures that come with the airport - just like in another of Aerosoft’s product that I had the pleasure to review - are excellent. There is a mixture of several textures of grass and dirt, and the runway surroundings appear very realistic. The buildings are done very well, but the inside of the terminal is non-existent. The runway at EDLH is fairly short at 2102m, but long enough to accommodate your typical A319 or 737. Runway textures are also custom-made and really well done, and so are the approach lights and satellite buildings surrounding the field, including the sailplane base."

"Aerosoft's Lubeck has many details, moving traffic in and around airport, and great textures. It also boosts excellent performance on an older system, and provides a flyer with another detailed airport to visit and explore. One thing to keep in mind is that the airport is small, and even in real life there are not that many things happening there."

VR Insight GPS 5

Posted: Thursday, May 27, 2010 - 3:42
The VRinsight GPS 5 provides terrain information and terrain hazard warnings. It is the most fundamental approach guide into airports inaccessible under IFR conditions. The GPS 5 supports all default Microsoft Flight Simulator and add-on aircrafts. It is completely interfaced with Fs9 and FSX through the VRinsight software (supplied).

Because you're reading this here, the product's webpage has something special for the AVSIM family.

FSFlyingSchool2010 Contest

Posted: Wednesday, May 26, 2010 - 16:30
Announcing the FSFlyingSchool2010 Contest!, FSInventions are giving away 5 licenses of FSFlyingSchool2010 + Voice Command Pack + Cessna Detail Pack, Visit the FSInventions Website to get complete details on the contest.

Aerorush Announce Their New Website

Posted: Wednesday, May 26, 2010 - 14:27
Aerorush announces the completion of their enhanced website featuring some of the most amazing real world combat aircraft videos on the web. The list of videos featuring real and flight simulation aircraft grows daily as visitors forward their top choices to the Aerorush team for review. Head on over to Aerorush and vote for the flight simulation video you think deserves the top spot.

Orbiter Sim Downloads

Posted: Wednesday, May 26, 2010 - 14:21
Fans of Orbiter Sim now have a new site available to get downloads for their version of the Space simulation , Orbiter Sim 2006, Orbiter Sim 2010 and Orbiter Sim LandSAT. Head on over to the launchpad to see the full selection of Orbiter Sim downloads available.

Orbx Releases 2S1 VASHON ISLAND

Posted: Wednesday, May 26, 2010 - 14:14
2S1 VASHON ISLAND now available for FREE download , payware quality scenery for free! John 'Prof' Hockings has done a sublime job of creating two beautifully atmospheric airfields on VASHON ISLAND . Here's some of the features you will get in this V1.0 release: - Photoreal ground imagery at three locations, full seasons, night lighting - Fully integrated into FTX NA BLUE Pacific Northwest - 2S1 Vashon Muni Airport - WA69 Wax Orchards Airfield - Boat harbors and ferries - Vashon Village - Unique vegetation, bushes and grasses - Great collection of static aircraft - Sloping runway (2S1 is a VERY challenging airport!) - A control panel to allow custom vegetation and also airshow mode - Dozens aof unique hangars modeled from hundreds of photos taken on-site - Full support of the 2S1 airport management committee - 20 page full user guide - Great FPS and wonderful atmosphere!

DodoSim 206 for FSX: Boxed Edition

Posted: Wednesday, May 26, 2010 - 0:50
Flight1 is pleased to announce the arrival of the boxed edition of perhaps the finest helicopter ever to be seen in FSX, the Bell 206 Jet Ranger. Using a bespoke software engine, DodoSim have been able to replicate helicopter physics and flight dynamics way beyond the realism of previous helicopter simulations. With 5 levels of difficulty beginners to experts will be able to enjoy this aircraft to the full.

Some of the many incredible features include;
- Multiple models include floats, low and high skid, utility with cargo hook and door-less versions, each with unique and accurate handling and performance.
- Custom configuration settings allow text hints when your handling or operation will cause engine wear, damage, or affect flight dynamics.
- The cued start-up and shut-down training mode highlights each operation to help you follow the correct procedure for the 206's turbine engine.
- Progressive wear and failure persists between flights - affecting running costs. A "Service Workshop" allows repairs, rebuilds and cost analysis. Get your flying wrong and be prepared for expensive repairs.

This boxed edition contains an 80 page printed training manual, printed quick start guide and a set of printed checklists. Flight1's DodoSim 206 is also available in a download version.

Virtual Dispatch Flight Planning Tool

Posted: Tuesday, May 25, 2010 - 16:25
Virtual Dispatch is a free and ease to use flight planning software for Microsoft Flight Simulator to assist in creating detailed flight plans. The software includes a map view of your route, weather and airport briefings, and can export routes for Flight Simulator addons like PMDG, PSS, LevelD, Wilco/Feelthere, vasFMC, Flight1 Fokker, Project Magenta and of course in FS2004 and FSX format.

New Titles At Just Flight

Posted: Tuesday, May 25, 2010 - 14:44
Get ready to race through the Grand Canyon, fly just feet above the Golden Gate Bridge, and narrowly avoid the Seattle Space Needle with Low & Fast Air Racing . This race pack offers you a total of 15 races and practice runs - two Beginner, eight Intermediate, four Advanced and one Expert race.

In some races you'll be battling against the clock, and in others you'll be racing against AI competitors. This package includes many custom features, dozens of custom voice-overs in the races, custom sounds and pre-flight briefings. Flight Simulator X Acceleration or Gold required - not compatible with FSX Standard or Deluxe.

Also New is FWI Dublin International Airport, a new high quality airport scenery from the Fly Wonderful Islands development team integrates seamlessly with FSX and features the new Terminal 2 buildings and jetways, 3D taxiways lighting and signs, animated jetways and seasonal textures.

New Trainz

Posted: Monday, May 24, 2010 - 20:29
Just Trains is pleased to announce the full release of Trainz 2010 - Engineer's Edition, which is the very latest version of the hugely popular standalone train sim from NeverFail. It comes with a huge range of enhancements and new features and virtual rail fans are set to feel the power of six generations of rail simulation!

SpeedTree® - New to Trainz Simulator 2010 is the inclusion of SpeedTree®. High Quality and detailed trees breathe new life into your routes and bring your worlds to life.

New and Upgraded Routes - Included in Trainz 2010 are several new routes for you to explore as well as improvements to routes you're all used to. These include: ECML Doncaster Peterborough, Milwaukee Road Avery Drexel, ECML Doncaster Cleethorpes Hull,CN Holly Subdivision, Conrail Lincoln Secondary, CSX Saginaw Subdivision, Detroit Connecting Railroad, Harbor Master and Port Ogden and Northern.

Tutorial Sessions - Not sure where to start with Trainz? Then check out the new tutorials included for you to drive and learn.

Backward Compatible with TS2009 Content - Trainz 2010 will work out of the box with all content created for Trainz 2009.

Just Trains' production director, Alex Ford, commented "We've published the last five instalments in the Trainz series and the combination of fantastic content and unique features has made it a winner for us. We are really pleased to have Trainz 2010 available so that our huge army of virtual rail enthusiasts can get their teeth into it."

Menorca X from Aerosoft

Posted: Monday, May 24, 2010 - 19:42
Staff reviewer Jon Murchison travels to a favourite European vacation spot with Aerosoft's Menorca X. "Menorca X is the third individual release in the Balearic Islands series developed by Sim-Wings for Aerosoft. While this release once again covers the entire island with high resolution photo real textures it is the airports themselves, of which there are two."

"Menorca X is three sceneries in one featuring the complete island itself and the two airports located at the eastern end. Like the two previous releases in the Balearic island series, sim-wings have used 0.5m/pixel resolution as the base allowing for excellent clarity. On top of this are the two airports that have been built in high detail and then autogen has been added to the rest of the island leaving you with a highly detailed and accurate representation of the real-world equivalent."

"The terminal and areas either side that make up the Menorca ramp are a bustling hive of activity primarily thanks to AES Lite which adds fuel trucks, vans, baggage carts and other vehicle types that drive on set loops around the airport. The terminal building has seven gates with 6 of these having animated jetways available to the aircraft. Each has a safe dock system that as mentioned identifies what aircraft you are flying and adapts its guidance based on that. Additional ramp parking is located close to the taxiway and this is where prop-jobs and regional jets tend to park."

"The taxiways and runway itself are very detailed with signs, 3D edge lighting and taxiway markings clearly defined. The level of detail on the taxiways is very high particularly at the ends where I could see the remains of the approaches for the two closed runways. All the appropriate navigational aids are included allowing full ILS approaches on both runways. At dawn, dusk and night Menorca lights up and is bathed in a glow that brings the best out of this scenery."

"Beyond the airports lies a world waiting to be explored. With photo real textures Menorca is a VFR pilots dream with the clarity allowing you to see cars and road markings very clearly at very low altitude. I was very impressed with the coloring of the textures and unlike Mallorca, I didn’t see any areas that suffered discoloration or cloud coverage that led to a bleached look in a few areas."

"If you are looking for hi resolution photo real scenery for FSX and haven’t dabbled with it up to now, you couldn’t go too far wrong with Aerosoft's Menorca X. It has the best of hi detail photo real airports with all the bells and whistles and then gives you 650 square kilometers of VFR flying."