So while perusing the newer releases in the library the other day, I had noticed some updates by Dino Cattaneo.  I'd flown his great Goshawk previously, but I hadn't taken the time to check anything else out, since I'm normally into slow sedate GA bush planes.

 

What a mistake I'd made in not checking this side of fsx out sooner!! 

 

So not only did I install all three of his planes, but I also 'discovered' how great the stock F-18 is, especially modded into the newest version of the 'Sludge Hornet'...  Then I also found out about the great carrier models by Javier Fernandez.  And then came AICarriers, Carrier tracks 1 & 2 and... damn... I think I may of forgotten about GA for a little bit..  Catapult launches are such a rush!  And stuff happens so fast on landing, it's crazy.

 

I guess not too much of a surprise here, but I had to share this enthusiasm with someone! :lol:

 

Now of course, I'm looking at a few carrier capable payware options to fit in with this newer (to me), faster (to me) version of fsx.  Any recommendations?  I see that IRIS has a nice looking F14, but is it worth having in addition to the great freeware version?  Is the VRS Superbug good?  Anything I'm missing?

 

 

 

 

 

 

I share your enthusiasm!  Lots of nice discoveries in the AVSIM Library.

 

Best regards,

Jim

Any recommendations?

 

 

Jim,

 

If you want to take it to another level, try combatpilotseries.com (aka CP).

 

CP is an addon for FSX that's advertised as a realistic multiplayer air combat program. The primary and advanced flight training missions are very well done, and they will absolutely make you a better pilot.

 

You can download the program and go through primary training for free.

 

Primary takes you through T-6B familiarization and exercises in maintaining airspeed while changing altitude, maintaining altitude while changing airspeed, changing altitude and airspeed while turning to a given heading, tracking radials, VFR and IFR navigation and approaches, formation flying in daytime and at night, and performing a standard overhead approach. The T-6B, T-38C, and T-45C that are used in primary and advanced training were developed by A2A Simulations under contract, and they are really good. Even if you call it quits at the end of primary, you will already be a more precise, capable, and confident pilot; but if you keep going through advanced training, carrier qualifications, fighter lead-in, and beyond, you'll get even better.

 

A few warnings:

 

1. When the CP program is installed, it changes some of the settings in your FSX.cfg file. If you have tuned your FSX.cfg and like it the way it is, you will want to back it up before installing the program.

 

2. Some of the missions contain minor errors. If you are of the sort that would get angry and go berserk when the instructor pilot tells you to tune to a VOR that doesn't exist (as happens in the primary graduation mission) instead of just working it out and enjoying the challenge, you might want to pass. (Hint: When you are instructed to turn south and tune to the Hurlburt VOR after having flown direct to CEW, just leave your nav radio tuned to CEW and track the 161 degree radial to 17.3 DME.)

 

3. CP is a work in progress, and there are stages that are still under development.

 

FYI, I'm not associated with the CP developers in any way... just a happy and enthusiastic user.

 

Burger

 

If you want to take it to another level, try combatpilotseries.com (aka CP).

 

Thanks very much for the recommendation - this looks like it would be something to try out for sure!