Blackbird Simulation shared its plans and sneak peeks for multiple upcoming aircraft, including the Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird, which is releasing for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 earlier than many expected.
First of all, we hear about the Boeing 737-200. The systems are currently being coded, and then modeling is being wrapped up, with painting beginning soon.
The developer intends to release it for MSFS 2024 and MSFS 2020. Specifically, this will be the only product coming for MSFS 2020. Everything else, including the Blackbird, will be 2024-only.
About the F-16, the code is 90-95% done, and the model should be done soon. You can see it below. The paint job is being redone by Blackbird’s internal team.
It’ll be an F-16C Block-50 and Block-52. It’ll have wingflex, conformal fuel tanks, and a choice of about 35 weapons with 25-30 different loadouts, although not all will be in the base package. It’ll also have about 20 liveries.
The developer will try to release it on Xbox as well, but for now, the outcome of that effort is not known.
As for the Bell UK-1H Iroquois (Huey), the code is still being worked on. Blackbird is aware of the free one released with the Stranger Things collaboration, but they guarantee theirs will be “worth the money.”
Next, we get to see the Vought F4U Corsair, which is currently being modeled.
We then take a look at the de Havilland Canada DHC-3 Otter. A Turbo Otter will also be made. It’ll have skis, amphibious configuration, floats, tundra tires, and normal tires.
Cargo and passenger cabin variations will be provided. It’s 60-70% done, and the release is expected in Q1 or Q2, 2026.
Next is an extensive look at the Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird, which is going to be released… on Thursday, December 18.
It’s not 100% done, and it’ll have a “limited beta” deal similar to the C-130 Hercules. The price will start at $34.99 and will grow to $59.99 as development progresses. There will also be a bundle with Beale Air Force Base (KBAB).
It’ll also arrive on the official marketplace after Christmas, and it should be compatible with Xbox as well.
It’ll include two nose options and 33 different liveries. The store page is actually already up. It will include the following features.
- Meticulous detailed reproduction of the exterior and interior of the SR-71A.
- All historical liveries (plus a few extra!) are included in the package.
- Authentic and complete simulation of all the SR-71’s unique systems and features.
- Full simulation of air-to-air refuelling from an accurate KC-135T tanker aircraft.
- Four realism modes: beginner, trainee, pilot, and instructor.
- Optional failure system involving more than 150 points that can fail.
- Usage of authentic and exclusive voice recordings of communications between Brian Shul and Walt Watson in all flight phases.
Below you can see some footage from the livestream (with plenty of commentary on what you can expect) and official screenshots.
If you’d like to read more flight simulation news, you can find plenty in our previous roundup article from yesterday.
If you want to go further back, we have a handy overview video of the major flight simulation news in the past week. You can watch it below. As usual, leaving a like and a comment and subscribing to our growing YouTube channel is extremely helpful.
