Exciting Updates in Microsoft Flight Simulator: CRJ Release, AI Ship Traffic, Gliders, Blue Whales, and More

Table of Contents

1. Introduction

2. The Release of CRJ 550 and 700 by Aerosoft

3. Global AI Ship Traffic Project

4. Whale Watching in Iceland

5. The T's Corsair by Milviz

6. Flying the T45C by India Foxteco

7. The Future of Complex Aircraft Add-ons

8. The Blue Whales of Iceland

9. Gliding in Microsoft Flight Simulator

10. The T45C Ghost Hawk by India Foxteco

Introduction

Virtual pilots and aviation enthusiasts, welcome back to another edition of On the Spot News for Microsoft Flight Simulator. In this edition, we have a lineup of exciting updates and releases that are sure to keep you hooked. From the much-anticipated release of the CRJ 550 and 700 by Aerosoft to the immersive experience of whale watching in Iceland, there's something for everyone. Join us as we delve into the world of flight simulation and explore the latest developments in the community.

The Release of CRJ 550 and 700 by Aerosoft

We kick off our news segment with an announcement that has been eagerly awaited by flight sim enthusiasts: the release of the CRJ 550 and 700 by Aerosoft for Microsoft Flight Simulator. These highly detailed aircraft are scheduled to be available for purchase on Tuesday, March 16, 2021. The CRJ series, which stands for Canadian Regional Jet, has been a staple in regional aviation since its introduction in 1991. The Aerosoft CRJ add-on provides a complex and realistic simulation of these aircraft, bringing a new level of immersion to the simulator.

Pros:

• Highly detailed and realistic representation of the CRJ aircraft
• Adds complexity and depth to the flight simulation experience
• Expands the range of aircraft options available in Microsoft Flight Simulator

Cons:

• Study-level aircraft enthusiasts may have to wait longer for a more in-depth simulation

Global AI Ship Traffic Project

Henrik Nielsen's Global AI Ship Traffic project brings a new level of realism to the world of naval simulation in Microsoft Flight Simulator. This free add-on provides AI ship traffic, complete with realistic models of various types of ships, including fishing boats, tankers, container ships, and aircraft carriers. With over 1,300 ship models placed on routes across the globe, as well as coverage of ferry routes and naval exercises, this project enhances the immersion for virtual pilots with an interest in maritime operations.

Whale Watching in Iceland

Nature enthusiasts and virtual travelers can now embark on a whale watching adventure in Microsoft Flight Simulator, thanks to the Iceland Overhaul add-on by Bad Weapon. This free add-on not only improves the overall visuals and landmarks of Iceland but also includes animated sea life, including the magnificent blue whales. The addition of these gentle giants brings Iceland to life and presents an opportunity for virtual pilots to explore and appreciate the wonders of the natural world.

The T's Corsair by Milviz

Milviz gives us a sneak peek into their work in progress with the F4U Corsair for Microsoft Flight Simulator. While no release date or specific details have been provided yet, the images shared by Milviz showcase a highly detailed and visually appealing aircraft. From what we can Gather, the developers are focused on creating an aircraft that closely follows the operating manual, promising an immersive experience for virtual pilots. Stay tuned for more information as the development progresses.

Flying the T45C by India Foxteco

The eagerly awaited release of the T45C Ghost Hawk by India Foxteco is just around the corner. This highly modified version of the British Aerospace Hawk land-based training jet is used by the United States Navy as an aircraft carrier-capable trainer. The developers at India Foxteco are currently assessing the compatibility of the aircraft with the upcoming Sim Update 3, and a decision will be made regarding the release date. Virtual pilots can expect a high-quality and true-to-life representation of this iconic aircraft in the near future.

The Future of Complex Aircraft Add-ons

With the impending release of the CRJ 550 and 700 by Aerosoft, the flight simulation community eagerly awaits the arrival of complex aircraft add-ons in Microsoft Flight Simulator. While the CRJ series is not considered a study-level aircraft, its release will serve as a litmus test for the capabilities of the current version of the SDK and its suitability for the development of more complex airliners. This pivotal moment will Shape the future of aircraft add-ons in the simulator, and virtual pilots are eager to witness the possibilities it unlocks.

The Blue Whales of Iceland

As virtual pilots explore the unparalleled beauty of Iceland in Microsoft Flight Simulator, they can now encounter the majestic blue whales in their natural habitat. Thanks to the Iceland Overhaul add-on by Bad Weapon, the shores of Iceland come alive with animated sea life. The addition of blue whales adds an element of realism and wonder to the virtual experience. This free add-on showcases the dedication and passion of the flight simulation community in creating immersive and authentic environments.

Gliding in Microsoft Flight Simulator

While motorless flight is not yet officially supported in the default Microsoft Flight Simulator, a dedicated community has stepped in to fill the gap. Multiple projects, such as the Discus 2b Glider by Irosar and the DG Flux Power by Touching Cloud, offer gliding experiences in the simulator. These add-ons provide the opportunity to soar through the sky using thermals and invisible engines, creating a truly unique and exhilarating experience for virtual glider pilots. Although manual placement of thermals is required and automatic generation is not yet available, the gliding community continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in the sim.

The T45C Ghost Hawk by India Foxteco

The highly anticipated release of the T45C Ghost Hawk by India Foxteco is on the horizon. This aircraft, a modified version of the British Aerospace Hawk, has captured the attention of virtual pilots eagerly awaiting its arrival. The India Foxteco team is currently evaluating the compatibility of the aircraft with the upcoming Sim Update 3 before finalizing the release date. Whether the release aligns with the Sim Update 3 or follows shortly after, virtual pilots can look forward to a meticulously crafted and accurate representation of this renowned aircraft.

Highlights:

• The release of the CRJ 550 and 700 by Aerosoft brings highly detailed regional jets to Microsoft Flight Simulator, enhancing the aircraft lineup for virtual pilots.
• Henrik Nielsen's Global AI Ship Traffic project adds realistic ship traffic and naval operations to The Simulation, immersing pilots in a dynamic maritime environment.
• Bad Weapon's Iceland Overhaul offers an enhanced visual experience of Iceland in Microsoft Flight Simulator, complete with animated sea life and the opportunity to spot blue whales.
• Milviz teases their work in progress with the F4U Corsair, showcasing their commitment to creating a visually stunning and operationally accurate aircraft for virtual pilots.
• India Foxteco's T45C Ghost Hawk is nearing release, promising a highly realistic representation of the renowned British Aerospace training jet.

FAQ

Q: When will the CRJ 550 and 700 be available for purchase? A: The CRJ 550 and 700 by Aerosoft are scheduled to be released on Tuesday, March 16, 2021.

Q: Are the blue whales in Iceland part of the default Microsoft Flight Simulator experience? A: No, the blue whales are part of the Iceland Overhaul add-on by Bad Weapon, which enhances the visuals and wildlife in Iceland.

Q: Can I engage in gliding activities in the default Microsoft Flight Simulator? A: While motorless flight is not yet supported by default, there are third-party gliding add-ons available that offer gliding experiences in the simulator.

Q: What is the T45C Ghost Hawk and when will it be released? A: The T45C Ghost Hawk is a modified version of the British Aerospace Hawk and will be released by India Foxteco in the near future. The release date is being assessed in conjunction with the upcoming Sim Update 3.