Flight Simulation developers shared interesting news today including the release of a new aircraft and an iconic pair of small airports for Microsoft Flight Simulator.
You can check out all the news below.
Eurofighter Typhoon for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 Gets Development Update and Screenshots
Indiafoxtecho published a development update and new screenshots of its upcoming Eurofighter Typhoon. Here’s what they mentioned:
External Model
The most difficult parts are done, but we still need to complete the landing gear, weapon pylons and a number of other small details (inlcuding the PIRATE system for those who asked).
We also need to complete the animations (and this is why the nozzles are still way too open in the screenshots).
Also have complete a number of first pass “base” textures for practically every nation that operates the Typhoon (each one being slightly different).Cockpit Model
We need to fix a number of small inaccuracies in the ejection seat model, but apart from those, it is pretty much done in tems of geometry.
We still need to refine the first pass textures, so the screenshot is still preliminary.Avionics and Systems
We are moving forward at a not-so-fast but steady pace. The new HTML5/JS HUD is almost completed and it is one of the few elements we could not reuse from our P3D model.
We have also completely rewritten our radar module which now works on MSFS2020 AND MSFS2024 – this new version is already integrated in the Typhoon development build.Flight Model
Flight model development is on hold pending the completion of parts of the avionics and systems, but we expect we can start working on it shortly (possibly early next week).
Sound Package
The plan is obviously to involve Echo19 to make the sound package.
Next Milestones
At the moment we HOPE we will have a decent Alpha build by the end of January but we’ll keep you posted.
And then, you know our motto: it is done when it is done.
Zlín Z-142 Released for Microsoft Flight Simulator
LHsimulations and PWDT released the Czech-made Zlín Z-142 for Microsoft Flight Simulator. It’s available on the official marketplace for $15.99.
Here’s what it comes with.
- Highly optimized 3D model with detailed animations
- 4K ultra-detailed PBR textures
- Authentic flight model, tested by real Zlin 142 pilots
- Custom sounds recorded from the M-337AK engine
- Full 3D virtual cockpit with accurately modeled instruments
- Multiple panel layouts (Eastern and Western styles)
- Capable of limited aerobatic maneuvers
- Pilot and copilot visibility toggle via weight adjustments
- Integrated notepad for quick customization of aircraft settings
- 11 unique liveries included
Westray and Papa Westray Airports Released for Microsoft Flight Simulator and MSFS 2024
Burning Blue Design released Westray Airport (EGEW) and Papa Westray (EGEP) Airport in a package that includes both. They’re iconic for the shortest scheduled flight in the world between them and they’re available on Orbx Direct (for MSFS 2024 or MSFS 2020) the developer’s own store starting at $10.78.
They’ll soon come on Orbx Direct and the official marketplace as well. Here’s what you can expect.
- Over 50 custom 3D objects each with full Physical Based Rendering (PBR) textures.
- Based on 2024 layout.
- Full custom night lighting.
- Animated garage doors which close at night.
- Custom windsocks.
- Animated spectators who leave at night.
- Real-life static aircraft seen at the airport:
- Loganair Brittan-Norman BN-2 Islanders (G-BCPA & GBLDV)
- Real-life Surrounding scenery has been added as visual reference points:
- All trees have been removed from the island of papa Westray and the Aikerness peninsular
- Tens of miles of dry stone walls have been added to the areas around the airports
- numerous farms and surrounding buildings have been created to ensure accuracy during approach and take-off.
- Papa Westray War Memorial
- High resolution colour corrected ground textures taken from Bing maps and manipulated for consistency and realism.
Dallas Fort Worth Airport for Microsoft Flight Simulator Gets New Screenshot
Imaginesim is working away at its Dallas Fort Worth Airport (KDFW) and released a screenshot showing the progress. They also provided a statement on the work being done.
Working away at the hundreds of buildings and structures away from the main terminals area. Not to mention the thousands of taxi lights, taxi lines, edge lines, edge lights, trees, grass, night lighting, smudges, skids, drainage, vehicles, taxi signs, nav lighting, construction sites, apron stands, jetways, stand numbering, docking guidance, animations…
If you’d like to get into flight simulation but you’re perhaps a bit intimidated by its apparent complexity, you can read our introductory guide, alongside the second episode focusing on installing add-ons, and another showcasing the basic instruments.
You can also read more flight simulation news in the previous roundup article.