Featured within this update is Benoit PLAMONDON´s newest audio project .... composed of 22 "EXTREMLY HIGH QUALITY" DC-8 soundpacks .... recreating the voice of the DC-8 through all of its various marques .... b-e-a-u-t-i-f-u-l-l-y recapturing the clssic startup "howl" and unsupressed "roar" of the earliest P&W turbojet powered DC-8´s, the unique "scream" of the first RR fanjet powered DC-8-40´s and loud "rasp" of the later P&W fanjet pòwered DC-8-50´s and -60´s, along with the unmistakeable modern turbine "growl" of the CFM re-engined SUPER 70´s DC-8´s also .... each meticulously fine-tuned so as to positively assault ones senses and to the extent that the only missing ingredients are the smell of jet fuel and the feel of warm engine jet blast air :)

Here are some audio-visual presentations of these superb new soundpacks :-

DC-8-10

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kd82bTHiFp0

DC-8-30

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SYJfu_t_7ZE

DC-8-40

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HjzZB93n6XE

DC-8-50

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VtT9Zb1xvS0

DC-8-60

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=udhAt-vqZBE

DC-8-70

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1LnALBs9FPU

Each of these new soundpacks have been released as separate FS2004 and FSX specific audio .... the FSX version of these new soundpacks taking advantage of the superior audio engine provided within this particular FS version.

Also accompanying this HJG DC-8 audio upgrade is an enhanced "DC-8 PANEL GAUGES/CORE FILES" package .... "VERSION 1.5" .... for use with HJG´s entire range of 15 DC-8 panels. Both this enhanced file, the panels, along with each of these new soundpacks too, are designed to interact with one-another so as to generate a truly impressive, as well as very authentic, DC-8 audio experience .... the like of which has not previously been developed for FS and will possibly remain unsurpassed for quite some time to come.

AND THAT´S NOT ALL .... :)

Just added to HJG´s already extensive, and constantly explanding, flightline are new textures .... featuring both the late 1980´s and current identity of a Canadian PAX/freight operator for the B727-200, -200 ADV, and -200 ADV WL .... DC-8-50 liveries for 2 long-gone Canadian tourist charter operators of the late 1980´s/early 1990´s .... and a selection of colour schemes representing Eastern European, Italian, Spanish, and Nordic operators of MD-80/90 aircraft covering the late 1990´s era until relatively recent times.

For further information concerning these latest HJG releases please refer to the above-linked audio-visual presentations .... and the following HJG forum announcement :-

http://tonymadgehjg.proboards.com/thread/8385/website-update-19th-december-2016?page=1

BUT STILL .... THERE´s MORE .... :)

Since July HJG have released 4 other web site updates which (due to the imposition of personal time restrictions) have "NOT" been publicly announced beyond the HJG forum. These updates have seen the release of an extensive number of new textures for HJG´s B707, B727, B717-200, cARAVELLE, DC-10, and MD-80 simulations .... featuring new textures representing the identities of operators from all 4 corners of the globe .... among which both past, present, and any number of lesser/known as well as interesting hybrid liveries are included. For further information regarding these pevious updrte please refer to the following-linked HJG forum announcements :-

July (X2)

http://tonymadgehjg.proboards.com/thread/8190/website-update-12th-july-2016

http://tonymadgehjg.proboards.com/thread/8197/website-update-18th-july-2016

August

http://tonymadgehjg.proboards.com/thread/8210/hjg-website-update-august-2016

September

http://tonymadgehjg.proboards.com/thread/8271/website-update-26th-sept-2016

November

http://tonymadgehjg.proboards.com/thread/8353/website-update-15th-november-2016

HJG also take this opportunity to remind folk in regard to its following recent major developments and releases of earlier this year :-

1. During March the entire HJG DC-8 flightline was re-released (the first stage of todays DC-8 audio update), and further expanded, supported by new/superior FDE files .... and also including new DC-8-20F/-30F/and -40F models featuring animated cargo doors ....

http://tonymadgehjg.proboards.com/thread/8018/hjg-website-update-march-2016

2. New and "EXTREMLY HIGH QUALITY" B727 soundpacks were also released during March (another project by Benoit PLAMONDON) .... again featuring separate FS2004 and FSX-specific P&W JT8D-7, P&W JT8D-9, and P&W JT8D-17 audio .... along with a separate and equally impressive AI-specific audio project especially for the B727 and FSX use. A new B727 PANEL GAUGES/CORE FILES package .... "VERSION 2.2" .... featuring further enhanced panel/gauge audio for each of HJG's current range of 11 B727 panels was also released during March and which is intended to be used in conjunction with HJG´s B727 aircraft base packs, panels, and these new soundpacks also ....

http://tonymadgehjg.proboards.com/thread/8017/hjg-website-update-march-2016

For further Information concerning each of these earlier developments please refer to the above-linked HJG forum announcements following each statement.

"ALL" of the above new, and upgraded, files are now available for "FREE" downloading from the following web site address :-

http://simviation.com/hjg/

Work continues to advance on a number of new/developing HJG projects slotted for 2017 release.

HJG take this opportunity to thank the international FS community for its much appreciated support and encouragement throughout 2016 .... and wish everyone a pleasant Christmas, a happy transition into 2017, along with a successful and prosperous New Year also.

Mark CRANSTON

HJG

Bogota DC, Republica De Colombia

↧

Tuesday

December 20, 2016, 3:30 am

≫ Next: REVIEW - JustPlanes TNT777 Aviation Video

≪ Previous: HJG Christmas 2016 Website Update

Flight Simulator X - Original Aircraft
Spantax DC-4 by Juan Villamor

Flight Simulator X - Aircraft Repaints, Textures and Modifications
Lockheed Martin C-130 Hercules by Jean-Rene Lavoie
Pacific Western C-130 Hercules by Jean-René Lavoie
ONUR AIR Airbus A330-300 RR (TC-OCB) by Miguel Angel Taboada
Royal Air Force BAe 146-100 (ZE100) by Miguel Angel Taboada
Ryanair HD B737-8AS Kilkenny by Lee Grant
AirAsia "CellMaxx" Airbus A320-200 by Benedictus Nathaniel Rusdianto
AirAsia "Sixcap TAGG" Airbus A320-200 by Benedictus Nathaniel Rusdianto
Philippine Airlines Boeing 777-300ER (RP-C7779) - PATCH by Gustavo Aguiar
Alaska Airlines 737-800 (2016 Livery) by Steve Kareta
Mk IX MH434 Spitfire by Ian Roussel
Philippine Airlines Boeing 777-300ER (RP-C7779) by Gustavo Aguiar
TUI 'Fly Frozen' Boeing 737-800 by Tenkuu Developers Studio, Luca Paul Meyfarth
BenAir C208B Grand Caravan (LN-PBK) by Martin Bunaes
Sunwing Boeing 737-8K5 (C-FTUA) by Marius Weidmann
Air Austral 777-300ER (F-OLRE) 'New Colors' by Enzo CATTANIA - Simcreations

Flight Simulator X - AI Aircraft
Turkish Cargo A330-200F RR by joel branchu
Turkish Airlines A330-300 GE by joel branchu
Turkish Airlines A330-300 RR by joel branchu
Turkish Airlines A330-200 GE by joel branchu

Flight Simulator X - Scenery
LSGG - Geneva Airport - Geneva, Switzerland by Rene Scharlach

Flight Simulator X - Utilities
CS L-1011-1 Trip Planner by Paul Tally

Flight Simulator X - Miscellaneous Files
PMDG 737 Kneeboard Checklist v1 by Carl Kendrick

Flight Simulator 2004 - Aircraft Repaints, Textures and Modifications
Austrian Airlines "Star Alliance" Airbus A320-214 (OE-LBZ) by Stefan Bree, Project Airbus
LaMia Venezuela BAe Avro RJ85 Pack by QualityWings - Jose Blanco
Kingdom Holding Company Boeing767-3P6/ER (HZ-WBT3) by Pedro Rodriguez / SkySpirit2010
Taerco Colombia DC-3 by Peter Mercy

Flight Simulator 2004 - AI Aircraft
German AF Eurofighter TaktLwG73 by Ray Parker
German AF Eurofighter TaktLwG74 by Ray Parker

Flight Simulator 2004 - Utilities
VoiceBot profile for the Locheed 1049 Super Constellation for FS9 by Manfred Jahn and team. by Ken Lawson

Prepar3D - Aircraft Repaints, Textures and Modifications
Austrian Bombardier Dash 8-Q400 'New Livery' (OE-LGM) by Markus Mitterhofer / MM Design

Prepar3D - Scenery Design
Implementing Prepar3D SIDS and STARS V1.2 by Conrad F. Staeheli

↧

REVIEW - JustPlanes TNT777 Aviation Video

December 20, 2016, 4:53 am

≫ Next: REVIEW - JustPlanes Malaysian A380 Aviation Video

≪ Previous: Tuesday

Review

by Marlon Carter

Publisher: JUST PLANES

Description: TNT 777-200LRF

Format:

Blu-Ray/Download

INTRODUCTION

After an amazing 737-300/400F video documentary, Just Planes returns to TNT to film their 777-200LRF operations to Dubai and Hong Kong. We start off at Liege as the flight crew prepares the aircraft for a 6 hour flight to Dubai. During the preparation for our flight, viewers are shown a detailed walkaround inspection of the 777 which nicely showcases the immense size of this aircraft. In addition to a walkaround inspection, viewers will also see some of the cockpit setup which includes FMS setup and performance calculations. As far as significant highlights are concerned, the departure from Liege airport was quite a remarkable experience due to the low visibility operations that were in effect. During our flight to Dubai there were many other highlights which included ATC communication, route presentation, fantastic scenery from the cockpit and a unique approach into the busy Dubai airport.

For our journey to Hong Kong, prior to departure the captain takes us on a brief tour of the main deck as he checks and secures the cargo. Failure to do this will result in a load shift on takeoff that can destabilize the aircraft. Once this is completed, we depart the beautiful city of Dubai for a 7 hour flight to Hong Kong. Our return flight via Dubai to Liege was also filled with many interesting highlights such as discussions on the Systems of the 777, a cockpit presentation and a few interesting details on the history of TNT. Throughout this program, viewers will definitely enjoy the numerous presentations by our pilots in addition to the amazing views from the cockpit. Just Planes has once again delivered another fascinating program that takes a closer look at daily operations of a cargo airline. Hopefully in the future, Just Planes and TNT may consider featuring another program on the operations of their 747! Until then however, this is perhaps one of the best presentations on the 777 and cargo operations available and I would highly recommend it.

+ Cockpit filming using up to 6 cameras for great views on takeoff & landing!

+ Pilot Presentations

+ Flight Preparations

+ Cockpit Set-up

+ Pilot Briefings

+ Checklists

+ External Walkaround

+Depature& Arrival Airport Charts

+ Cockpit Presentation

+ Cargo Presentation & Loading

+ Great scenery on all flights

Flight Information
A/C	Reg	Flight	Route	Flt Time	Destinations
777-200F	OO-TSC	TAY 051	LGG-DXB	6h17	LGG Liege, BELGIUM DXB Dubai, UAE
777-200F	OO-TSC	TAY 051	DXB-HKG	6h27	DXB Dubai, UAE HKG Hong Kong, CHINA
777-200F	OO-TSA	TAY 052	HKG-DXB	7h58	HKG Hong Kong, CHINA DXB Dubai, UAE
777-200F	OO-TSA	TAY 052	DXB-LGG	6h24	DXB Dubai, UAE LGG Liege, BELGIUM

HIGHLIGHTS

Video Preview

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZaNOPQ5ztQ

↧

REVIEW - JustPlanes Malaysian A380 Aviation Video

December 20, 2016, 4:54 am

≫ Next: AS16 + ASCA SP1 Released

≪ Previous: REVIEW - JustPlanes TNT777 Aviation Video

Review

by Marlon Carter

Publisher: JUST PLANES

Description: MALAYSIAN AIRLINES A380

Format:
Blu-Ray/Download

INTRODUCTION

Malaysian Airlines is the newest airline to join the Just Planes line up and they surely started with their best offering by featuring their A380 on a return flight from Kuala Lumpur to Heathrow. The A380 has always been a unique aircraft both in its design and from technical perspective. This video offers viewers a closer look into the daily operation of the A380 at one of the world’s top airlines. What can we expect? Well here is a brief overview of what we can expect to see and we will also comment on some of the highlights.

+ Cockpit filming using up to 7 cameras for great views on takeoff & landing!

+ Pilot Presentations

+ Flight Preparations

+ External Walkaround

+ Cockpit set-up

+ Briefings & Checklists

+Departure& Arrival Airport Charts

+ Cockpit Presentation

+ Great scenery

+ Epic views of other airplanes in the air

+ Cabin views

Flight Information
A/C	Reg	Flight	Route	Flt Time	Destinations
A380	9M-MND	MH 4	KUL-LHR	13h28	KUL Kuala Lumpur, MALAYSIA LHR London Heathrow, UK
A380	9M-MNB	MH 1	LHR-KUL	12h14	LHR London Heathrow, UK KUL Kuala Lumpur, MALAYSIA

HIGHLIGHTS

This program starts off with a video presentation of an A380 landing at Kuala Lumpur and later parking at the gate. While the aircraft is at the gate, we join the First Officer as he completes his thorough walkaround inspection of the aircraft which truly shows just how massive this aircraft really is. Once the walkaround is completed, we bid the crew farewell as we await our new flight crew taking us from Kuala Lumpur to London. While at the gate, viewers will be able to see firsthand all that is involved with preparing an aircraft of this size for a 13 hours flight. After all the necessary check and briefings are complete, our A380 has an uneventful departure that includes many interesting camera views for all to enjoy. During our flight to London, the Captain discusses many aspects of the A380 with the viewers and also presents a brief tour of the cockpit and systems of the aircraft. Other discussions in the flight deck included the Career history of our pilots and an explanation of various departure and arrival charts. For those of you who are familiar with Just Planes videos, you will know that the presentations may also include the activities within the Cabin. The A380’s cabin is quite massive and it takes a large team of flight attendants to ensure the comfort and safety of the passengers. In this brief cabin presentation we meet some of the friendly flight crew as they prepare and serve appetizing meals to the passengers. If you’ve never flown on Malaysian Airlines, this presentation gives you the perfect opportunity to see high standard of service you can expect.

While our landing and departure at London were mostly uneventful, the most significant highlights of the final segments of this program were mostly visual. Both during our flight to London and on our return flight to Kuala Lumpur, viewers will have the opportunity to see many beautiful and intriguing views from the cockpit of various cities, airports, terrain and other aircraft as they fly by. With up to 7 Camera mounted in the cockpit, Just Planes has captured numerous perspectives that results in a program that all can enjoy.

If you are a fan of the A380, this program gives you the best perspective of what it’s like to fly this massive aircraft. Not only do you see the pilots in action, but you also learn more about the technical aspects of this aircraft and what makes it very different to a Boeing aircraft. For those who are mostly interested in Malaysia Airlines, this program perfectly captures the professionalism of their pilots and cabin crew. Recently it was announced that the A380s at Malaysian may not be around much longer but with this video you can enjoy the operation of this aircraft with this airline for years to come. – Highly Recommended.

Video Preview

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mnuNHGYhePA

↧

AS16 + ASCA SP1 Released

December 21, 2016, 2:56 am

≫ Next: NL2000 scenery Version Number 4.09.

≪ Previous: REVIEW - JustPlanes Malaysian A380 Aviation Video

AS16 + ASCA SP1 RELEASED!

Service Pack 1 for AS16 and ASCA has been officially released after several months of testing. Thanks to everyone who participated and provided great feedback to help make SP1 as solid and fine-tuned as possible!

SP1 for AS16 incorporates significant enhancements, adjustments, fixes and tweaks to further increase realism, immersion and functionality. Highlights include new P3D visibility improvements, cloud motion effect improvements, improved restricted visibility depiction, new jet-stream and wind-layer shear turbulence influence effects, interpolation improvements, generation depiction improvements, additional API functionality, P3D v3.4.18 support and much more.

SP1 for ASCA brings brand new softer cloud textures, a new cirrus set, revamped original cloud and sky textures, new natural sky color sets, new integration and API capability, improved overall resolution, improved overcast depiction, new geographic wx-influence profiles, and several new UI features including new option, plus more!

Both SP1 upgrades are available absolutely free of charge to all AS16 and/or ASCA users. Visit www.hifisimtech.com to download or learn more!

AS16 (Active Sky 2016) is HiFi's latest full-featured reality-based weather and environment engine. ASCA (Active Sky Cloud Art) is a dynamic sky and environment graphics package with breakthrough features including real-time cloud texture dynamics and brand new cloud structures, completely transforming your skies. Both are designed to run fully integrated or stand-alone, and are fully compatible with all other add-ons including weather engines and graphics enhancements. For more information about AS16 and/or ASCA, visit www.hifisimtech.com

A free fully-functional 7-day trial of AS16 SP1 is available to everyone, even if you've tried AS16 before. Visit www.activesky16.com for details!

↧

NL2000 scenery Version Number 4.09.

December 21, 2016, 3:05 am

≫ Next: Wednesday

≪ Previous: AS16 + ASCA SP1 Released

The NL2000 team has released several updates for their NL2000 scenery. This will be version number 4.09.
The greatest change in the update is the addition of autogen buildings and houses in the Dutch scenery.
Besides that, a few airports has improved versions.
In EHGR has a better framerate , in EHRD and EHEH have changed exit and taxisign numbers.
For EHKD is a complete new layout of the platform and taxiways. EHOW got an extra taxiway and EHST
has got a complete makeover .
Also the NL2000 libraries and NL2000-3D packages are new.
A lot of new buildings between Schiphol and the city of Amsterdam are created.

For installing the 4.09 packages installer version 4.076 is needed. There is a new manual too.

Downloads via The NL2000 team Homepage

↧

Wednesday

December 21, 2016, 3:10 am

≫ Next: REVIEW - Avionics Panel by Volair

≪ Previous: NL2000 scenery Version Number 4.09.

Flight Simulator X - Original Aircraft
Spantax DC-4 by Juan Villamor

Flight Simulator X - Aircraft Repaints, Textures and Modifications
Scandinavian Airlines Airbus A320 (LN-RGL) by Miguel Angel Taboada
United Airlines Boeing 777-300ER (N2331U) by Gustavo Aguiar
VARIG HS-748 by John O'Duffy
Lockheed Martin C-130 Hercules by Jean-Rene Lavoie
Pacific Western C-130 Hercules by Jean-René Lavoie
ONUR AIR Airbus A330-300 RR (TC-OCB) by Miguel Angel Taboada
Royal Air Force BAe 146-100 (ZE100) by Miguel Angel Taboada
Ryanair HD B737-8AS Kilkenny by Lee Grant
AirAsia "CellMaxx" Airbus A320-200 by Benedictus Nathaniel Rusdianto
AirAsia "Sixcap TAGG" Airbus A320-200 by Benedictus Nathaniel Rusdianto
Philippine Airlines Boeing 777-300ER (RP-C7779) - PATCH by Gustavo Aguiar
Alaska Airlines 737-800 (2016 Livery) by Steve Kareta
Mk IX MH434 Spitfire by Ian Roussel
Philippine Airlines Boeing 777-300ER (RP-C7779) by Gustavo Aguiar
TUI 'Fly Frozen' Boeing 737-800 by Tenkuu Developers Studio, Luca Paul Meyfarth
BenAir C208B Grand Caravan (LN-PBK) by Martin Bunaes
Sunwing Boeing 737-8K5 (C-FTUA) by Marius Weidmann
Air Austral 777-300ER (F-OLRE) 'New Colors' by Enzo CATTANIA - Simcreations

Flight Simulator X - AI Aircraft
Turkish Cargo A330-200F RR by joel branchu
Turkish Airlines A330-300 GE by joel branchu
Turkish Airlines A330-300 RR by joel branchu
Turkish Airlines A330-200 GE by joel branchu

Flight Simulator X - Scenery
LSGG - Geneva Airport - Geneva, Switzerland by Rene Scharlach

Flight Simulator X - Utilities
CS L-1011-1 Trip Planner by Paul Tally

Flight Simulator X - Miscellaneous Files
PMDG 737 Kneeboard Checklist v1 by Carl Kendrick

Flight Simulator 2004 - Aircraft Repaints, Textures and Modifications
Air Algerie 737-400 by Arezki
Norwegian Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner (EI-LNJ) by Ryan Gabuyo, Tenkuu Developers Studio
Austrian Airlines "Star Alliance" Airbus A320-214 (OE-LBZ) by Stefan Bree, Project Airbus
LaMia Venezuela BAe Avro RJ85 Pack by QualityWings - Jose Blanco
Kingdom Holding Company Boeing767-3P6/ER (HZ-WBT3) by Pedro Rodriguez / SkySpirit2010
Taerco Colombia DC-3 by Peter Mercy

Flight Simulator 2004 - AI Aircraft
German AF Eurofighter TaktLwG73 by Ray Parker
German AF Eurofighter TaktLwG74 by Ray Parker

Flight Simulator 2004 - AI Flight Plans
Air France Long-Haul -Summer 2016 by Christian HOULLEY

Flight Simulator 2004 - Utilities
VoiceBot profile for the Locheed 1049 Super Constellation for FS9 by Manfred Jahn and team. by Ken Lawson

Prepar3D - Aircraft Repaints, Textures and Modifications
Austrian Bombardier Dash 8-Q400 'New Livery' (OE-LGM) by Markus Mitterhofer / MM Design

Prepar3D - Scenery Design
Implementing Prepar3D SIDS and STARS V1.2 by Conrad F. Staeheli

↧

REVIEW - Avionics Panel by Volair

December 21, 2016, 5:39 am

≫ Next: Radio Navigation Simulator From Digital Aviation

≪ Previous: Wednesday

Review

by Ray Marshall

These are truly exciting times for those fortunate enough to own a flight simulation chassis. New to the market is a ready-made Avionics Panel that will significantly improve your existing Volair Flight Sim Chassis in a very short time with minimal effort.

Take a quick look at these images. On the left is the standard Volair Fight Sim Chassis, in the middle the new Avionics Panel has been attached to the panel tray. On the right is a fully populated Volair Flight Sim Chassis with yoke, throttles, and triple monitors added with FSX, FSS:SE, P3D, or X-Plane running.

In mid-year, 2013, I authored the Avsimreviewhttp://www.avsim.com/index.php/_/reviews/mad-catzsaitek-flight-simulator-cockpit-r690 of the Volair Flight Sim Chassis that has brought me hours and hours of sheer pleasure as I watched and participated in the Lockheed Martin development of P3D and Dovetail Games steadily improving the new Steam Edition of FSX. During these 3 ½ years of steady improvements to our simulator platforms, not much was happening at Mad Catz’s Saitek Pro Flight store. A few months ago the full Saitek line was purchased by Logitech.

X-Plane was also being progressively improved during this time and all this Saitek hardware and the Volair equipment can be used with X-Plane. I don’t have XP and therefore don’t know much other than what I read in the forums.

Sure, Saitek was the first and primary supplier of an affordable full range of hardware for the everyday flight simmer looking for something more to use with their Cessna Yoke and Pedals. For those looking for a good flight stick and throttle that wouldn’t break the bank,you could get the relatively inexpensive X52 Pro Flight System Controller and 3-lever throttle that could be attached to a matching 2nd unit for a 6-lever throttle unit and a big trim wheel that looked like it just came out of a Cessna 172. Then Saitek introduced an expensive little box that could be mounted in a flight panel and display any instrument with the proper software drivers. You could cycle between instruments with a couple of small arrow. It was a big improvement but got fairly expensive if you bought 6 or 7 of these little guys.

These little black boxes known as a FIPs, or Flight Instrument Panels would end up being a key item for home Flight Simulator Chassis builders on a budget.

As companions for the FIPs Saitek introduced several “Panels” that were designed to be stacked over, under, or next to other panels or FIPs to make a very flexible and practical layout for flight simulator avionics panels.

Well, it didn’t take very long for our flight sim community gurus to figure out how to eliminate the 6 button legends and use the full space for creative new images. It did take a couple of years for the new third-party SPAD.neXt drivers to be developed that would blast open the doors to the development labs and enable the use of Lvars and such.

Main line developers like FSXTimes and FIPgauges were quick to introduce mind-blowing multiple gauges in a single unit and replicate just about anything that could be found in a real world avionics shop or airplane.

We went from the standard Saitek, plain vanilla gauges above to the high end multi-use gauges shown below.

It is no small wonder that Saitek garnered a reputation for deplorable customer support and failed to promote the use of third party support for advanced gauge designs and more user friendly drivers. I was not at all surprised to hear that Logitech had bought them out – lock, stock and barrel – as we would say in Texas.

A future Avsim review will delve into the inner workings of this new SPAD.neXt driver based manager for the new and improved Lvars and original Saitek drivers and programs. It will also feature some of the more popular new gauge designs by FSXTimes.com and FIPgauges.com along with the windows edition and iPad edition of Sim Innovations Air Manager app. Look for this review around Easter.

Don’t get sidetracked worrying about your Thrustmaster, or other makes or models of flight instruments and hardware because this new Volair Avionics Panel is designed specifically for Saitek Panels and FIPs. A side benefit is that with a little Velcro or a couple of metal tabs an iPad can be mounted in lieu of a cluster of 6 FIPs or 2 panels. Not only is this a practical mix but can also be a money saver. (One used iPad2 ~$150 – one Saitek FIP - ~$150)

When used with the companion VolairFlight Sim Chassis it is a simple matter of aligning 4 pre-drilled holes along the bottom of the new Avionic Panel and insert the four supplied bolts, washers and nuts and tighten with the wrench that is also supplied. Now it is just a matter of populating the nine full sized slots with your Saitek Yoke, panels, FIPs, blanks, and maybe an iPad or two.

You can install your Saitek panels in the Avionics Panel either before or after mounting it on the VolairFlight Sim Chassis tray. You can also trade places with panels from the front of the unit with only a screwdriver.

The real decisions are going to be related to exactly where in the panel you are going to place your Saitek panels and FIPs. For many, the judicial use of the supplied 5 blank panels and two divided panels will help determine your final layout.

The center bottom slot is reserved for a Saitek Pro Flight or Cessna Pro Flight Yoke, but, as you will see, this Avionics Panel is flexible enough to house any of the existing panels.

Here is a quick glance of the Volair Avionics Panel as it comes out of the box.

I was brainstorming with my graphics program and using some cut and paste images to see how I might mount my existing Saitek panels.

Having eight (8) Flight Information Panels, FIPs created a small problem for me, because I don’t want to buy another one to come up with the magic number 9 that would neatly fit into three slots. I ending up choosing to add 6 FIPs and put two in a drawer for backup or future use.

After a little head scratching and changing my mind a time or two, I have more or less determined that I will not use my Saitek Cessna Yoke and will instead mount the Backlit Information Panel, BIP, in the slot designed for the yoke. It looks similar to this layout template that I made using cut and paste with my graphics program. The actual Avionics Panel looks much better than this image. That is an image of aniPad in the middle above the Switch Panel.

I first mounted the Avionics Panel on the Flight Simulator Chassis Tray as shown in the two page instruction sheet. I then promptly removed it, by simply removing the 4 nuts and moved it over to my small desk. This created a problem when using standard monitor stands because the monitors sit too low to be fully visible over the top of the Avionics Panel.

A temporary fix for me was to cut a couple of pieces of Styrofoam to use as a base to elevate the monitors. A more permanent solution would be a sturdy tall basefor the monitors made of wood or something more substantial than left over molded Styrofoam packing material.

Because I prefer to sit in a desk chair and use the x52Pro flight stick on for my right hand and the companion throttle unit for my left hand with a wireless keyboard and mouse in the middle, this new Avionic Panel provides a perfect arrangement for my existing Saitek hardware.

It is not that the very sleek racing chair that comes with the Volair Flight Sim Chassis in not comfortable, it’s just that I spend more time reading, researching, and writing than I do flying the flight simulator. I also have a weak back from those 10,000 hard landings by my student pilots from the old days. I also only have one room dedicated to my hobby and I have 3 stand-alone desktop computers so I use the newest and fastest to do my work at my desk.

I normally use a 24 in. Dell triple-monitor arrangement but have been having difficulty keeping all 3 monitors up and running. When one failed several months ago, I replaced it with a used monitor from Ebay, then another one failed. I have been dragging my feet deciding whether to buy another used monitor or start over with 3 matched new 27 in. HD monitors. This review will use my remaining two good monitors so I can get it in the publishing pipeline for Christmas. My Volair Flight Sim Chassis has a nice 27 in Dell ultra-sharp monitor that might end up with matching sides one day soon.

I had three days to consider my first arrangement as I waited for the UPS delivery of the 20 pound box containing the Volair Avionics Panel. The trip from Indiana to Mississippi consumed the normal 3 days transit. I was surprised the unit weighed that much.

Because I had read the panel top or covering was a padded carbon-fiber looking material I was expecting a lighter weight unit. I should have known that Bart at Volair would basically overbuild it with plenty of heavy metal framing. Even the blank plates are heavy metal, and must weigh a pound or more – each – and there are five of them.

If I decide to make the new Avionics Panel on my desk with triple monitors my permanent setup then I will need to drill four holes in the desk to properly secure the panel because it is definitely top heavy – almost 12 inches tall but less than 5 inches deep. The exact measurements are 11 5/8 inches tall, 4 ¾ inches deep and 46 inches wide. I have the panel secured with a cup hook screwed into the window frame and 3 rubber bands for this review.

I will most likely not drill holes in my desk but ‘engineer’ a base-plate for mounting the Avionics Panel and then clamp the base-plate to the desk. Maybe even figure out how to incorporate a triple monitor stand to the base.

The nine horizontal openings are all the same size with the exception of the lower middle slot designed for the Saitek or Cessna Yoke. The difference is the upper corners have a metal angle so the Yoke will fit flush. The Yoke is separately mounted to the VolairFlight Sim Chassis panel tray with this new Avionics panel designed to fit snuggly over the top of it.

A standard desk height of 29 – 30 inches might be a few inches too high for a yoke mount although it could be done. My desk is of the homemade variety and has a finished height of 33 inches, although I have lowered extensions, like wings on either side to house the x52 Pro throttle and flight stick.

My complement of Saitek Panels include all the available panels, 8 FIPs and one of the older TPM panels which will not be moved from the VolairFlight Sim Chassis to the desktop setup. This is the Switch Panel, The Multi-Panel, two Radio Panels and the BIP panel. Take a look at the images here.

The dimension of the “wide panels” are usually described by the distances between the mounting holes. Center to center the mounting holes are 274 mm x76 mm. This is 10.787 in x 3.0 in.

The Flight Information Panels, hole center to hole center, are 85 mm wide x 76 mm. That is 3.346 in x 3.0 inches

All are 15 mm or 0.60 inches thick.

When purchased, each Saitek panel comes with a standard mounting bracket or plastic cases that can be connected to other Saitek panels above, below, or on either side. These plastic cases are not used when mounting the Saitek Panels in the Volair Avionics Panel.

New longer screws are provided by Volair with Phillip screw heads. (Saitek mounting screws all come in black or silver with raised thumb screw heads). See photo. If you happen to have a small electric screwdriver, all the better.

The Saitek mounting system is very versatile and the panels can be used as stand-alone units, like the image on the left,or connected together as shown in the image on the right.

The Saitek TPM System for PC is not a standard panel. Because it uses a totally different mounting system it is not considered a panel and would not fit into one of the openings in the Volair Avionics Panel. It can certainly be used with the Volair Flight Sim Chassis should one want a single engine setup.

The Saitek TPM has a color coded and shaped plastic heads for metal shafted Throttle, Propeller, and Mixture plungers with 9 assignable switches to look similar to a Cessna 182 setup and is usually mounted underneath a desktop or flat surface.

The Volair Avionics Panel (VS-AP1)

This is a single unit with the intended purpose of providing a home for Saitek Panels and designed to fit over a Saitek Pro Flight Yoke or Cessna Pro Flight Yoke. The 4 pre-drilled mounting holes on the bottom match 4 holes in the panel tray on the VolairFlight SimChassis.

My personal thought is that this is a no-frills, well-engineered and well-built, avionics panel. The package comes with all the necessary slots and mounting hardware including 5 blank panels and two divided panels designed for the smaller Flight Information Panels, FIP displays. A total of twelve FIPs can be installed in the Volair Avionics Panel.

The Volair Avionics Panel has a soft-to-the-touch top and sides with attractive hand stitching and a modern carbon-fiber look with just enough overhang in the front to give the impression of a glareshield. The general shape is that of a typical general aviation small plane panel. It reminds me a little bit of a real world Cirrus SR22 glareshield or maybe one of the Bonanzas.

The VolairFlight Sim Chassis is not included and not required, but the two together make an impressive home simulator cockpit. All computers, monitors, cables, panels, boxes, throttles, flight sticks, coffee cups and similar items that you may see in sketches, screenshots, or photos are not provided with either the VolairFlight Sim Chassis or the Volair Avionics Panel. All such items are to be supplied by the purchaser.

I use the term ‘no frills’ because the new Volair Avionics Panel does not include any extras like some similar, and much more expensive panels that have built-in lights, speakers, powered USB hubs, rails, switches, cables, sound boards, etc.

My desktop VolairAvionics Panel setup.

My setup for this review uses two blank panels in the center that are mounted on top of the built-in two 3 slots each arrangement intended for the ‘6 Pack’ of FIPs. I have my BIP in the slot designed for the yoke and held in place with a couple of well-fitting blocks of wood and some duct tape. Remember, this is temporary so I can get this review completed in time for Christmas. A couple of small L brackets will secure it nicely.

I used some light-weight pieces of metal that I could easily bend to form a couple of brackets to hold an iPad in place. I use my iPad for bedtime reading and checking my email at the breakfast table so it will be shared with my new desk mounted Avionics Panel. I could use Velcro to hold it in place but I don’t want to stick the Velcro onto my iPad.

My hastily made metal brackets work just fine for now, I think they were originally intended as rain gutter downspout brackets. I used black electrical tape to cover the sharp edges and therefore do not need to paint these makeshift brackets.

This configuration works very well for me – I have a full panel of gauges and panels, my trusty x52Pro flight stick and throttle, and a keyboard and mouse handy. I ordered a black 2 m Lightning USB cable for the iPad so I can run it with power on and not be distracted with the standard white cable in these photos.

I started with the Switch Panel in the lower center slot with the BIP on the bottom left. With nothing more than a screwdriver you can remove the four mounting screws from the front of the Avionics panel. You then have to pass it through the open slot to place it in any other slot. I chose to exchange the Switch Panel and BIP panel and it took maybe 5 minutes. See pic.

I removed the BIP panel and replaced it with my Saitek Pro Flight Cessna Yoke just to confirm my decision not to install the yoke. It is comforting to know just how easily I can change the configuration to fly with or without the yoke. I had to move the Avionics Panel forward about 6 inches on my desktop to make room for the yoke, which extends out behind the Avionics Panel by about 6 or 7 inches.

Summary

This is a slam dunk for those that either have Saitek flight sim panels or wish to have Saitek panels. ThisVolair Avionics Panel is well made, looks great, and will last a lifetime. Everything you need is in the box – new longer screws for mounting the blank or divided panels which are the same screws for mounting anything that will fit in the panel. An installed Avionics Panel gives the impression of a general aviation cockpit panel and feels natural to the touch. The mock glareshield with the soft texture and hand stitching gives the installation a nice, finished look.

It really does not matter if you already have a VolairFlight Sim Cockpit Chassis or not. For those that do have one already or maybe have one on order or are expecting one for Christmas this new Avionics Panel will be a welcome addition. For those that elect to mount the Avionics Panel on a desk or tabletop, like me, then as you can see, the choices are only limited by your imagination.

Any of the 4 wide Saitek Panels – Switch Panel, Multi-Panel, Radio Panel, or Backlit Information Panel – will fit in any of the 8 slots and even the 9th in a pinch if you give up the Yoke, like me. You can mount an even dozen FIPs, in any 4 slots, or use two slots for FIPs, and mount an iPad or even two iPads in front of two blank panels and use Sim Innovations or Remote Flight to populate the iPad with flight instruments or gauges, or switch panels.

One word of caution. Older iPads will run Remote Flight but will not run the newer and more flexible Sim Innovations’ Air Manager app. The Air Manager requires a minimum of OS 9 and many of the older iPads can’t be upgraded to that level.

With a little ingenuity, I bet you could install some sort of mounting system for your iPad that would fit over or on top of six FIPs. That way you could have the best of both worlds and still make the iPad removable. I am not a big fan of Velcro but that is yet another option.

Should you only have a starter set of Saitek panels, or just a few FIPs then you can use the blank panels to fill the slots while you save up to add more to your inventory until your cockpit panel is finally full.

Conclusion

Having a new Volair Avionics Panel chock full of Saitek flight gauges and panels sitting in front of your monitors with sharp, brightly lit gauges and instruments is one thing.

But, being able to reach out and physically turn the starter knob and listen to the engine come to life, then feel the change as you check the mag drop, or adjust the altimeter, or change radio frequencies, or maybe select a new altitude or speed, press the button to engage the autopilot, move the landing gear lever up or down, or raise or lower flaps, adjust the elevator trim – well you get the picture.

It may not be the same as doing exactly all this in an A36 Bonanza, but, it is a helluva lot less expensive, you don’t need a medical and it is just a little bit closer to really flying.

I tend to reach up and place my hand on the edge of glare shield as I have done a thousand times in real life in my airplanes. About the only thing missing now is a proper seatbelt and a window to open while I wait for takeoff clearance.

The Volair Avionics Panel gets a most definite RECOMMENDED BUY. You can buy one at Amazon.com and pay retailer buy direct from VolairSim headquartered in Indianapolis and save $50 just for reading this review. You gotta hurry, though; this is a time limited offer. http://www.volairsim.com/

Credits

Volair for supplying the Avionics Panel
Mad Catz/Saitek for all the panels, yoke and pedals (4 years ago)
Michael Brown, XForcepc.com for YouTube videos and screenshots
FSXTimes.wordpress.com for FIP images
FIPgauges.com for FIP images
SPADneXt.com for great community support of Saitek hardware
Unnamed for screenshot of Volair Flight Sim Chassis in corner with blue screens
Most of the photos taken by author with iPhone

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Radio Navigation Simulator From Digital Aviation

December 22, 2016, 3:03 am

≫ Next: XpressSim Scenery Products

≪ Previous: REVIEW - Avionics Panel by Volair

Digital Aviation releases free version of Radio Navigation Simulator app for iPad and iPhone.

BRISTOL, UK - Digital Aviation announces today, that it has released Radio Navigation Simulator Basic, a free version of it's popular IFR flight training app series Radio Navigation Simulator.

This Basic version of the app is limited in that it has only a single usable training navaid (a combined VOR/DME and NDB) which is located within the existing exercise flight environment of approx 150 x 200 nm, populated with VOR, VOR-DME and NDB Navaids & Airfields, to provide training context.

It is intended as an introduction and demo to the existing Radio Navigation Simulator series of apps.

These which are precision 2D flight simulators and training aids, designed for iPad & iPhone, that enable pilots and students to practice, understand and become proficient in the use and management of VOR, DME and ADF/RMI instruments, displayed with an HSI or Directional Gyro on a choice of five realistic flight panels. They operate within an exercise area or a full USA dataset (depending on app version).

The perfect mobile tool for instructors to demonstrate radio navigation techniques, and for students to consolidate and self test. Experienced pilots will also find the simulator valuable to prepare for an instrument rating or proficiency test.

Features:

● Instrument panel optimised specifically for iPad & iPhone, with full support for retina displays.
● Scaleable chart with Facilities, Idents, and Aircraft symbols.
● Aircraft track plot trail is displayed, so you can see your progress and accuracy.
● Practise tracking to NDB or VOR, Radial interceptions or Holding Patterns.
● Learn to interpret NAV instruments and DME (with Distance, Groundspeed and ETA).
● Flight panel and navigation chart simultaneously displayed.
● Realistic flight panel with the following instruments:
● VOR, DME, ADF (RMI or RBI) and Directional Gyro.
● Real world Variation magnetic model with display of current Variation on the Chart.
● Airspeed range 60 to 600 knots.
● Altitude management and display.
● Flight profile in Real or Compressed time.
● Wind velocity, 0 to 99 kts, from any direction, steady or variable.
● Dead reckoning navigation capability, with flight environment mapped in Latitude and Longitude.
● All instruments and chart controlled with an intuitive multi gesture interface.
● Touch button flying controls.
● Popup Toolbars & Annunciators to manage flight panel facilities.
● Quick Start guide provided within the app.

Radio Navigation Simulator Basic V1.0 is free and available now on the App Store worldwide .

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XpressSim Scenery Products

December 22, 2016, 3:13 am

≫ Next: Thursday

≪ Previous: Radio Navigation Simulator From Digital Aviation

Scenery Solutions and Flight1 Officially Announce the Release of the XpressSim Line of Scenery Products.

Scenery Solutions has today proudly announced the official release of the XpressSim system and the first batch of XpressSim scenery products. Two years of research and development using a 'outside the box' approach to scenery design has produced a revolutionary scenery development system whereby high performance and low resource consumption is the standard. XpressSim products do not consume resources like scenery products of the past.

Scenery created with Scenery Solutions proprietary XpressSim technology offers a groundbreaking balance of detail, great performance and outstanding value. All XpressSim products will be priced at a very affordable range of $1.99 to $5.99 per product. Product locations can be reviewed prior to purchase and then directly obtained and installed all from within the XpressSim user interface.

Individual XpressSim products include a variety of locations. Island getaways, large Cityscapes and detailed airports with surroundings. Individual airport products expand past the runway and terminals into detailed terrain and building renders that encompass the airport region. Detailed Cityscapes can include tens of thousands of custom buildings with customizable product configurations from within the XpressSim interface.

The XpressSim interface can manage product configurations across individual or combined FSX, FSX-SE and Prepar3D systems. The system is free to download and currently comes with 2 free scenery areas for your unlimited evaluation and enjoyment, and with no purchases necessary. Our free products provide a great introduction to our new system.

This launch release includes 9 commercial products. Scenery Solutions is committed to releasing 1 or 2 new scenery locations on a weekly basis and will continue to provide more and more 'unlimited use' free products as time goes on. Over time our catalog accessed directly in the interface will grow immensely. All products are designed to work seamlessly with our original Ultimate Terrain line.

There is absolutely no risk to try and our free scenery offerings as they grow in number are always yours to keep.

To get started with XpressSim and install the two free scenery areas, please see their support forum.

You can also get started by visiting the XpressSim page at the Scenery Solutions site.

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Thursday

December 22, 2016, 3:24 am

≫ Next: Early Bird Registration FlightSimCon 2017

≪ Previous: XpressSim Scenery Products

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Early Bird Registration FlightSimCon 2017

December 23, 2016, 4:15 am

≫ Next: Multi Crew Experience Supports FsLabs A320

≪ Previous: Thursday

FlightSimCon 2017 is proud to announce the opening of Early Bird Registration for attendees. FlightSimCon is the largest annual aviation and flight simulation conference held in North America. This year’s event takes place on June 10-11, 2017 at the Sheraton Hartford Hotel at Bradley Airport

“We are excited to open Early Bird Registration for this year’s event,” said event volunteer Evan Reiter. “I’ve been involved since the first FlightSimCon in 2013—it’s been amazing to see the event grow into a worldwide activity.” Registration opens today for all attendees, and will stay open until the event.

Early Bird Registration prices for the weekend will remain the same as last year; all of the information about registration, including pricing, may be found at www.flightsimcon.com. Discounted registration is available for students, student pilots, and youth aged 12 and under (who are accompanied by an adult attendee).

Prices go up after Early Bird ends on January 31, 2017.

FlightSimCon 2017 is being held at The Sheraton Hartford Hotel at Bradley International Airport in Windsor Locks, CT, approximately 20 minutes north of Hartford. The venue is connected directly to the terminal at Bradley International Airport. FlightSimCon has never been easier to get to: Bradley International Airport features non-stop service to many major markets in the United States and around the world, including new and expanded service to Los Angeles (via American Airlines) and non-stop flights to Dublin, Ireland (via Aer Lingus).

The new venue boasts far more space than in previous years, allowing more vendors, communities, and exhibitors to participate in the event. With longer hours, more conference rooms, and advanced check-in available on Friday, FlightSimCon 2017 promises to be the biggest and best event yet.

The conference has already secured its first sponsor and exhibitor of 2017: Orbx Simulations will be returning as the top tier sponsor of the event. New sponsors, speakers, and exhibitors are being added now—and updates will be made available on the FlightSimCon website, on Facebook (like FlightSimCon on Facebook) and on Twitter (follow the conference on Twitter).

To take advantage of early registration discounts, go to www.flightsimcon.com and click “Register”.

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Multi Crew Experience Supports FsLabs A320

December 23, 2016, 4:23 am

≫ Next: Friday

≪ Previous: Early Bird Registration FlightSimCon 2017

Multi Crew Experience is pleased to announce that starting from this release MCE now fully supports the recently released FsLabs A320.

MCE provides a completely interactive voice based crew simulation, talk to co-pilot, flight engineer, ground mechanic, purser and ramp agent.

It’s an extremely flexible crew simulation, and even let’s you create your own natural speech commands should you want to.

A fully working Demo is available from this link

All you need is a working headset with microphone.

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Friday

December 23, 2016, 4:30 am

≫ Next: CropDuster X v1.02

≪ Previous: Multi Crew Experience Supports FsLabs A320

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CropDuster X v1.02

December 24, 2016, 5:08 am

≫ Next: X-Plane 10.4 Mobile

≪ Previous: Friday

CropDuster X an update to version 1.02 has been released today. This fixes the issues with the SatLoc lightbar gauge.

A few additions have been made to this version:

- multiplayer mode has been reactivated
- a gauge installer dialog has been added, which makes editing the panel.cfg obsolete
- AI crop dusters can now be chosen with our Aircraft Finder dialog

More information and the full changelog are available at the CropDuster X Website and forum.

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X-Plane 10.4 Mobile

December 24, 2016, 5:19 am

≫ Next: Holiday Library Files

≪ Previous: CropDuster X v1.02

Laminar Research announces the release of X-Plane 10.4 Mobile for Apple and Android Devices.

Laminar Research, creators of the X-Plane flight simulator franchise, has announced the release of X-Plane Mobile version 10.4 , the premiere flight simulation product for the iPad, iPhone and Android devices.
X-Plane 10 Mobile was built using the same concepts in Laminar’s showcase desktop product, X-Plane 10.
Aswith the desktop version of X-Plane, the mobile version utilizes real physics to model the aerodynamic forces found in flying an actual aircraft. The result is a product that is not just another game, but rather a highly sophisticated simulation of how aircraft actually behave in a variety of environments and weather conditions.

Version 10.4 updates the mobile version of X-Plane 10 with the following exciting new features:

• Manipulators - This update includes cockpit manipulators in every aircraft. While every aircraft has some manipulator controls, the Cessna 172, Cirrus Jet SF50, and the new Boeing 737-800 have fully implemented manipulator cockpits. That means almost everything in the cockpit is interactive, tune your own VORs, fly full ILS approaches, start the aircraft by hand and more!

• Quick-Looks are designed to make it easier to interact with the panel. Double tap on the Garmin and the camera will move there to help you tune the radios. Double tap on the “six-pack” and the camera will move there to help you set your instruments. Each major section of the panel will have similar presets.

• A brand-new new Cirrus Jet… now included with the free download of X-Plane Mobile 10.4.

• A fully functional B737-800… modeled after the 737-800 in the X-Plane 11 desktop version.

All of the above is in addition to the fully featured X-Plane Mobile 10 that has been one of the topsimulator downloads for mobile devices.

A holiday sale is also now underway, offering in-App purchases of aircraft, some with as much asa 50% discount.

X-Plane 10 Mobile is available as a free App on the Apple iTunes Store and Google Play. It comes with both afree Cessna aircraft, as well as the new CirrusJet. Additional aircraft may be purchased using the in-App purchase feature.

About Laminar Research

Laminar Research is creator of the X-Plane franchise of flight simulators, including X-Plane 10, the latest desktop version. X-Plane 10 is available in both a consumer version, as well as a FAA certified professional version.
Laminar also offers X-Plane versions for both the iPhone and iPad, as well as other mobile systems.

X-Plane’s flight model, scope, versatility, customizability, and 3rd party add-ons make it the ultimate flightsimulation experience for Macintosh, Windows, Linux, and mobile platforms.

For more information on Laminar Research and X-Plane visit the X Plane Website.

X-Plane… It’s what real pilots fly !

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Holiday Library Files

December 24, 2016, 5:48 am

≫ Next: Holiday Library Files

≪ Previous: X-Plane 10.4 Mobile

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