April 14, 2007 - April 24, 2007

Earth Day 2007

Posted: Tuesday, April 24, 2007 - 17:37
Yesterday, April 22nd, was Earth Day. The first Earth Day was organized 37 years ago and took place in Ann Arbor, Michigan and came off with much fanfare as the way to save the environment.

An article in the FS Free Press describes a personal background about the first Earth Day and then looks at how the aviation industry has fit into the environment. How have we done since the first Earth Day?

Freeware Review - David Maltby's BAC 1-11

Posted: Tuesday, April 24, 2007 - 2:43
Staff reviewer Trevor Clark continues his look at individual freeware aircraft with David Maltby's BAC 1-11 Series. "The story of the BAC 1-11 is a typical story of British commercial aviation, a good aircraft but lacking that certain ‘spark’ that would turn it into a real world beater."

"One of the most impressive things about this designer is the fact that the gauges and panels have been made ‘in house’, by David himself. The flight deck will look very familiar to anybody who has an interest in civil aviation of the mid to late 20th century. Neat rows of pretty analogue dials and an awful lot of switches and knobs, all exact replicas of the real thing……and almost all fully functional!"

"For a model that can trace its origins back to FS2000, the current 1-11 has everything that one would expect of a ‘state of the art release’. Everything that you would expect to move does move: air stairs, doors, control surfaces and even the wings flex under high loading. Each model is very accurate in shape and size and later models also feature the famed ‘hush kits’, an attempt to keep the volume of the noisy engines within modern levels of acceptance."

"As with the very best modelers in MSFS, David has had all his aircraft tested by people who have flown the real thing. Within all the usual restriction of PC flying, this fact really shows through here. Every little element of performance mirrors the flight manuals of the real thing; it also has that all important feel of reality that makes a good model exceptional."

"I started this review of with the thought of comparing the David Maltby BAC 1-11 with the amazingly popular Project Fokker F-28. In the real world they both have the same configuration, the same engines and were pitched into a similar market place, at around the same time. The only fair conclusion I can come to is that we, as a community, are very lucky to have been blessed by these talented individuals who offer these two wonderful creations free of charge. In this case, we really can enjoy the very best of both worlds."

SceneryTech Announces Scenery Addon

Posted: Monday, April 23, 2007 - 23:05
SceneryTech is a new company formed by Flight Simulator hobbyists to produce innovate scenery products for Microsoft Flight Simulator X. The press release goes on to say: "At launch SceneryTech is offering their "North America Landclass" (the first in a set of 6) which, besides simply improving the realism over the default landclass, will reduce the pervasive use of desert textures as found in the default and substantially increases the number of towns and cities. This is also the first product to ever include a modified slope landclass, which activates smoother texture transitions on slopes."

To find out more about this product, visit the SceneryTech Website.

Air Madagascar Scenery

Posted: Monday, April 23, 2007 - 22:59
After several months of hard work, the AMS Team is proud to announce the Antananarivo 2007 project. Readers should note that the website is in French. Readers are required to create a logon to gain access to the website. To find out more, visit the Air Madagascar Website.

Computer Pilot Digitize Entire Back-Catalogue

Posted: Sunday, April 22, 2007 - 13:05
The popular flight-simulation magazine Computer Pilot have just announced that they will be releasing their entire back-catalogue in electronic (.pdf) format. Responding to numerous requests from Computer Pilot readers, they are now providing entire year back volumes of Computer Pilot Magazine on CD, all the way back to their first issue in 1995.
With these digitized versions - Called The Computer Pilot Reference Collection- you can have these issues on your PC ready to read in it's 'as published' format, print any part you like or perform instant searches of over 8,000 pages of Computer Pilot Magazines from over the years. Currently available are Volume 10 (2006) and Volume 9 (2005) with the remainder (1996-2004) becoming available within 3 months.
The Computer Pilot Reference Collection Volumes 9 and 10 are available now at a low introductory price, and are available on CD-ROM or to download; both include a free version of Adobe Acrobat to view the '.pdf' files. These are currently not available on the Computer Pilot website but are out on the PC Aviator online shopping site. Here are the links you can click on to purchase your preference of CD-ROM or Download Version:

  • Volume 10 (2006) CD-ROM Version

  • Volume 9 (2005) CD-ROM Version

  • Volume 10 (2006) Instant Download Version

  • Volume 9 (2005) Instant Download Version

    Russian AI Traffic System Release Aeroflot AI

    Posted: Sunday, April 22, 2007 - 12:35
    The Russian AI Traffic System team have just announced the release of their long-awaited package - Aeroflot - Russian Airlines. The package includes 1721 regular and charter flights, and 81 hand-made repaints for all fleet. The AI operate with accurate rotation and realistic time periods for each plane. For more information, visit The Russian AI Traffic System Website.

    FriendlyPanels Release Cessna Caravan 675

    Posted: Sunday, April 22, 2007 - 12:28
    FriendlyPanels has just announced the release of their Cessna Caravan 675 Executive Edition for FSX. This completely new design for both the Cessna Caravan 675 and the 675 Amphibian advertises features such as a range realistic GPS equipment, three liveries for each aircraft, full moving parts, low impact on frame rates, and complete virtual cockpit and cabin, with a custom 2D panel as well. Please, visit The FriendlyPanels Website for more information.

    AlphaSim's AH-1W Super Cobra

    Posted: Saturday, April 21, 2007 - 16:39
    Sleek and effective, the Super Cobra is the classic battlefield helicopter, combat-proven in Vietnam and the Gulf. This AlphaSim package pays homage to a US Marines version from the 1991 Gulf conflict. The paintwork depicts a war-worn example, custom sounds add to a movie-like image in the sim.

    The FSX version has the full spec with bump mapping, glass bloom and self-shadowing. The flight dynamics are finely tuned and come with a full checklist, reference card and an Operations Manual in .doc format. The VC is detailed and the 2D panel sports a large-format HUD with adjustable brightness.

    The pilots can be toggled on/off and the externally mounted missiles and rocket pods can also be removed using a keypress. The chin gun and sensor pod on the nose are animated with joystick input.

    This release is for FS2004 and FSX with a filesize of 13MB (FS9) and 23MB (FSX). Details and screenshots can be viewed on the AlphaSim Newspage.

    Looking For Some Adventure?

    Posted: Friday, April 20, 2007 - 18:42
    Have you ever wanted to go back in time and get a sense of what it was like for bush pilots to make Alaskan supply runs to radio stations in the days of WWII? How about searching for UFO's above Antartica? Or set out on an expedition to the Mongolian Temples of Doom?

    If you answered "Yes" to any of these questions, FS2004 Adventure Sky might be worth checking out.

    The purpose of the site is to provide, free of charge, FS2004 users with already made scenery adventure files that they can download and fly by themselves or with other pilots via a dedicated server. The site is available in English and Spanish versions.

    So if you're wanting to search for gold in the rivers of Chile or looking for a jungle flight in Panama, head on over to FS2004 Adventure Sky and book your reservation.

    Tips, Tricks & Trips For FSX

    Posted: Friday, April 20, 2007 - 18:17
    If you're one of those who have installed Microsoft Flight Simulator X and you're looking to get more out of your flight sim immersion, Abacus Publishing says it has a companion to help you along.

    Tips, Tricks & Trips for Flight Simulator X was written by two flight sim experts, Adam Howe and Scott Slaughter, and its aim is to "put the complexity to rest so that you can enjoy the Flight Simulator experience rather than fight it."

    According to Abacus, "This is not a users manual for Flight Simlulator X. Instead, it's a collection of "right to the point" articles that will help you run FSX faster, better, easier. In short, you'll have more fun!."

    Tips, Tricks & Trips for Flight Simulator X is available for immediate purchase via download in Adobe (.pdf) format and the book w/CD-ROM version is slated for a May 18th release.

    For more information and to purchase Tips, Tricks & Trips for Flight Simulator X, try saying that fast five times and set your course to the Abacus website.

    FScene4X-Europe Patch

    Posted: Friday, April 20, 2007 - 17:59
    FScene announced it has released a patch for users of FScene4X-Europe. According to FScene's Ruud Faber, an update for FScene4X-USA & Canada is also forthcoming.

    FScene produces replacement ground texture sets for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004 and FSX.

    For more information and to download this patch, you can fly direct to the FScene website.

    FSD International Cessnas Ready For FSX

    Posted: Friday, April 20, 2007 - 5:31
    FSD International announced it has released FSX file sets for two of its popular Cessna aircraft.

    The Cessna 337 Skymaster and its military counterpart, the 0-2A, has been updated for use with Microsoft Flight Simulator X. Current owners of both aircraft may obtain the free update and more information by visiting the FSD International website.

    One Spring Morning At Biggin Hill

    Posted: Thursday, April 19, 2007 - 0:16
    Every once in a while a reader will submit something out of the ordinary. Some of you may remember back in December last year, Carl Avari-Cooper submitted a short story about his passion for aviation. After receiving many emails commending his efforts, Carl has again written about his passion and would like to share it with you. To read his latest story titled One Spring Morning At Biggin Hill, visit the Avsim Hanger Chat Forum. 

    AlphaSim Release Their Sikorsky S-55

    Posted: Tuesday, April 17, 2007 - 13:42
    AlphaSim have just announced the release of their Sikorsky S-55/Whirlwind for FS2004/FSX. The Package includes Five Variations: Royal Navy, Royal Air Force, US Marines, US Army and Royal Canadian Navy. The Package also advertises features such as a custom panel and Virtual Cockpit, a finely tuned flight model to add to the realism of flying this craft. Highly detailed textures, a custom soundset, custom smoke effects, full start-up/shut-down sequences, as well as a rotorbrake, clutch and MUCH more.
    For more information, visit The AlphaSim Website

    TweakFS Releases Freeware FSX Config Editor

    Posted: Sunday, April 15, 2007 - 15:02
    TweakFS has just announced the release of a new tool in its growing collection of freeware applications. The FSX Config editor is there to help you answer one of simmers most frequently asked questions: "Where is my FSX.cfg file?". The FSX Config editor is able to automatically locate your FSX.cfg file, and load it's information in a graphical menu for easy viewing and editing. For more information, visit the TweakFS Website HERE , then click on the 'Freeware Tools' banner.

    FlyTampa Release St. Maarten, St Barts & Saba Scenery

    Posted: Sunday, April 15, 2007 - 12:18
    FlyTampa have just announced the release of their new St. Maarten (TNCM), St. Barts (TFFJ) and Saba (SABA/TNCS) scenery for FS2004. The scenery boasts impressive features such as 3 islands covered with photoreal scenery, custom autogen and mesh, even animated AI ships and cars. Maho beach (St. Maarten approach) also has added detail, and you can buy St. Maarten as a stand-alone product. For more information, visit The FlyTampa Website Here

    Seneca V from FSD International

    Posted: Sunday, April 15, 2007 - 6:41
    Staff reviewer Adam Volcek takes FSD International's Seneca V out for a trial flight. "The Seneca V has been Piper’s personal/business twin for a decade now. It is now one of the few production light twins available and the only US production aircraft with counter-rotating propellers."

    "The external model is immaculate, with finely detailed parts and a plethora of animated ones. The cockpit and cabin are superbly done and the detail on the outside is mirrored on the inside. There was no holding back and the extreme detail in things such as hinges and latches, which actually move when the doors are opened, proves that a lot of time was spent on the model."

    "There are two options for the panel. First is with the old standard steam type instruments, and the second is the new glass cockpit version equipped with the Avidyne Entegra Flight Deck. Both panels are an excellent representation of its real world counterpart. Even the color of the panel has been recreated. The placement of the instruments has been done nearly identical to where it is located on the real airplane."

    "Working at an airport, I have heard several Seneca’s and the sounds included by FSD have a familiar tone to them. While most of those that I have heard have been older models, it doesn’t matter much since all Seneca’s are essentially the same. The sounds are very representative and give an excellent feel for the light twin."

    Summing up his review of FSD International's Seneca V, Adam closes with, "Overall, I found the Piper Seneca V v2 by FSD International a very pleasing experience. The airplane is an awesome light twin with decent performance and good handling, and the panel made flying a pleasure in both VMC and IMC. If light twins are your cup of tea, it’s well worth the money."

    France VFR Releases Guadeloupe

    Posted: Saturday, April 14, 2007 - 16:52
    France VFR is proud to announce their new photoreal islands scenery of La Guadeloupe. The scenery covers the La Guadeloupe islands (La Guadeloupe, Les Saintes, La Désirade, Petite Terre and Marie-Galante) with photorealistic textures, including a full and specific autogen coverage. The six airports provided (TFFR Pointe A Pitre - Le Raizet, TFFB Basse Terre - Baillif, TFFC St-François, TFFS Les Saintes – Terre De Haut, TFFA La Désirade – Grande Anse, TFFM Marie-Galante) include detailed buildings with night textures and a realistic AI traffic based on real aircraft and liveries.

    Their goal during the development of this product was to recreate a realistic flying experience from the pilot's point of view. - Full photoscenery coverage. - Textures made from high quality aerial photography (NOT satellite imagery), reworked for an optimal rendition in Flight Simulator. - Customized autogen (houses and trees) for the whole scenery. - Ground textures are summer only. - Custom and very high resolution mesh for the whole region (LOD11). - Watercoast faithfully represented and optimized with coast flattening (no water “climbing”). - 6 detailed airports including night textures. - Many standard 3D objects. - Full and realistic commercial AI Traffic based on real models and liveries. - Full AI Trafic compatibility with others Antilles sceneries (St-Maarten – St-Barthelemy, Martinique…). - Extremely precise geo-referenced texture positioning, ensuring a maximal compatibility with scenery add-ons for this region. - Comprehensive SIA VAC maps.

    Complete information with screenshots and videos can be found at the France VFR website. (Note: site is in French but easy to navigate)

    T37 "Tweet" from microSimulator

    Posted: Saturday, April 14, 2007 - 3:52
    New staff reviewer Michael "DocW" Wehner submits his first review with a look at microSimulator's T37 "Tweet". "The Cessna T37 is a basic side-by-side USAF trainer that entered service in 1956 with the T37-A model. Microsim’s T37 features the “T” (training) variants 37A and the 37C."

    "The aircraft comes with 11 liveries. All textures are photorealistic with readable decals. Some are highly reflective with impressive effects. The 3D model is up to date and features rotating fan blades and moving trim tabs. The gear has hoses and the gear wells are textured inside. The underside of the speed brake is also textured. The overall appearance is pleasant and will almost certainly draw some muttered “wow” comments from the user."

    "Every switch is clickable in the 2D cockpit and in the 3D cockpit as well. Working switch caps are modelled. All levers and instruments are 3D. All of the instrument's textures are crisp and highly readable. The panels and levers are appropriately weathered and add a lot to the immersion of sitting in a heavily used air force trainer. The 2D panel has a sound 3D appearance. As you can guess by the described quality of the VC, it fell short of nothing. The model installs with 79 sound files. The T37 had a deafening, annoying high-pitch engine noise which gave her the nickname “Tweety bird”."

    "The plane feels exactly like an agile little jet trainer with muscle powered flight controls and comparatively weak turbines. Once everything has spooled up, it’s a joy to fly. Flying approaches by the book is very satisfying with this plane, especially at night." Wrapping up this review of microSimulator's T37, Michael concludes, "microSim’s T37 appears to be quite a unique blend between shear, glowing enthusiasm and professionalism. It has an outstanding manual and a very detailed plane with a high immersion factor. I am quite sure I will be flying it for some time in the future."

    Lionheart Creations Bugatti Air Racer Gamepack

    Posted: Saturday, April 14, 2007 - 1:01
    This is a large gamepack based on the famous high-technology air racer prototype that was to compete against the Germans in the European air races in the early 1930's.

    This gamepack comes with the wild Bugatti air racer which has many animations including a lifting cowling that sports the view of the dual supercharged Formula One Grand Prix race engines, specially cast in Magnesium for lightness, compressed neatly in the folds of the spear shaped fuselage. There is also a variant done of the P-110, which was the Military French airforce version that would have been born of this sleek air racer, as the French government had seen this as a very plausible fighter for the defense of France.

    The gamepack also comes with a series of various air racers, each representing famous planes of the air racing era, and each also sporting virtual cockpits, enabling people to play the gamepack online in various choices of air racers.

    To 'add' to the already growing package, is a fictional 'what if....' Bugatti of the future, a classic Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantique Coupe sports car, another classic, the Type 35 SC Compressuer Grand Prix Formula One sports car that won Bugatti to emmediate racing fame. And lastly, there are three scenery packages. One being a classic vintage fictional airfield in Southern France near the Bugatti residence. The airfield is complete with two tall red and white checkered pylons. There is also a remake of the Bugatti mantion estate in Alsace France, of which you can drive to down the road from the airfield, and the third is a vacation home on a mountain near Cannes France on the Southern Riviera coastline.

    Lastly, there is a set of adventures to captivate one into the era of a fictional air racing pilot hired from America that comes to France to work for Bugatti as a test pilot of the aircraft, of which the fictional saga goes from there.

    This gamepack is for Flight Simulator FS2004. For more information on the gamepack and to see a mini movie of it, visit the Lionheart Creations website.