We are celebrating 10 years of X-Crafts, and to mark this milestone, I am super happy to announce that our once-payware E175 & E195 v2.5 are now free, updated, and fully optimized for X-Plane 12.
The latest version of our Free
The
Title: | USAF 97th FTS "Devil Cat" for AOA Simulations' T-6A Texan II |
Author: |
eldo |
Title: | KLM Asia Livery PH-BQF (New) |
Author: |
AlexScxtt |
Title: | Boosters VisualXP and ShadeX preset |
Author: |
Booster1 |
Title: | KLM Asia Livery PH-BQF (Old) |
Author: |
AlexScxtt |
Title: | MD-90 (now with a working pylovator, fixed fuselarge!) |
Author: |
Fur_shun |
Title: | XpRemotePanel |
Author: |
SenecaFlyer |
Title: | X-Plane 10 version aircraft converted to X-Plane 12 |
Author: |
DC-10 Enthusiast |
Title: | Cessna 208B Grand Caravan |
Author: |
Maudic |
Title: | Singapore Airlines - 9V-SQE - FF777-200ER |
Author: |
pilot.consti |
Title: | TAT Probe for FlightFactor B767 |
Author: |
Pot4t0 |
The X-Plane 12 version of the Ford Tri-Motor 4-AT ("little Ford") is now released.
The new package has many new features to take advantage of XP12.
All planes now have custom airfoils and use XP12's new loading stations feature so you can input the weights of your passengers and cargo and X-Plane will compute an accurate CG and Weight and Balance. All this improves and makes handling and performance more accurate.
The float plane has been redone with accurate 1930's style floats to take advantage of XP12's new water environment. All sounds have been upgraded in the latest fmod version used by XP12. The engines have been remodeled to be more detailed and other improvements to the model have been done.
Interiors now are custom for each airline using that airline's color scheme.
XP12 now allows for different engines on the same plane, so Byrd's Antarctic planes have been redone to take advantage of this feature.
There are many other upgrades also to make the plane compatible in XP12. The package contains two versions of the 4AT in various liveries (sloped window and vertical window), the float version, and Byrd's modified Antarctic plane (the first plane to fly over the South Pole) in both wheel and ski versions. The 4AT was the first production Tri-Motor produced by Ford and has a slightly smaller fuselage than the larger 5-AT model (which is also in the store). Enjoy.
Sunday 5th May - What's New in the World of X-Plane
Welcome to our weekly roundup of everything X-Plane.
Here you find a snippet of this week's major events, including standout freeware releases, X-Plane 12 news, developer updates, plus reviews from the guys and gals at XPlaneReviews.
If you enjoy staying up to date with all things X-Plane, please consider following the Weekly Digest (remember you need to be registered).
X-Plane 12 News
The above image was taken from one of our featured downloads...
Payware Releases
VSKYLABS NISUS Gyroplane
https://store.x-plane.org/VSKYLABS-NISUS-Gyroplane_p_1886.html
Night XP 3 Canada
https://store.x-plane.org/Night-XP-3-Canada_p_1887.html
Better Road Traffic Cars (update)
https://store.x-plane.org/Better-Road-Traffic-Cars_p_1710.html
KTLH - Tallahassee International Airport XP12 (update)
https://store.x-plane.org/KTLH--Tallahassee-International-Airport-XP12_p_1871.html
Payware Developer News
Free E-Jets by X-Crafts: 10-Year Anniversary Edition
To mark a decade of X-Crafts, we have created a new version of our Free E175 & E195 which is updated, much better, and fully optimized for X-Plane 12.
Full description and Release Notes can be found on our website: Free Embraer E-Jets for X-Plane | X-Crafts
These new Free E-Jets v3.0 are fully optimized for X-Plane 12, and they bring a huge amount of improvements over our previous Free E-Jets v2.5. The most notable improvements are in the autopilot, avionics, and PBR exterior materials, but the changelog encompasses over a hundred different changes
These E-Jets are now available for free to the whole X-Plane community.
For additional insights and updates, make sure to delve into the recent posts in the portal. Remember, the newsletter and portal work hand in hand to keep you informed.
Freeware Developer News
RAF Little Staughton 1944/45 – Teaser
Progress report from the author:
https://forums.x-plane.org/index.php?/forums/topic/304731-raf-little-staughton-194445-teaser/
Freeware Files
Here are some of this week's standout freeware files.
Scenery
X-Plane 12
ORTHOPHOTO Mallorca ZL18 1.0
https://forums.x-plane.org/index.php?/files/file/90715-orthophoto-mallorca-zl18-100/
By orl_cz
KANJ | Sanderson Municipal Airport | JetSet Designs 1.1.0
By JetSet Designs
X-Plane 11
Voz1.8 (Vista Australis) for X-Plane 240428
https://forums.x-plane.org/index.php?/files/file/25178-voz18-vista-australis-for-x-plane/
By broberts542129
Aircraft
X-Plane 12
Carbon Cub EX-3 0.1.0
https://forums.x-plane.org/index.php?/files/file/90690-carbon-cub-ex-3/
By Bluegrass
Pottier P130UL 1.0
https://forums.x-plane.org/index.php?/files/file/90685-pottier-p130ul/
By alpeggio
If you’re a freeware developer working on a project and have some news you would like to share, please contact me via PM and I will cover it in the next update.
X-Plane 12 Tips
This forum section provides tips for solving common and not-so-common X-Plane 12 problems.
https://forums.x-plane.org/index.php?/clubs/76-x-plane12-tips/
By Dave Britzius
Airport of the Week
A very big well done to Gason71, J.K., MarcXP, royaloak, TacanTom, Bob D., WalSch, Benkornflies, Dennis Powell, DC-3 pilot, and new2, who correctly guessed last week’s airport, which was Ohrid St. Paul the Apostle Airport (LWOH).
Patty Wagstaff Interview
If you missed it last week, please take a moment to explore and leave your thoughts on our interview with Patty Wagstaff, where she shares valuable insights from her rich career in aerobatic flying.
X-Plane Videos of the Week
Free E-Jets for X-Plane 12 | 10 Year Anniversary Edition | RELEASE TRAILER
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2DQHJni6CHk&ab_channel=X-CRAFTS®
Stay safe and see you next week!
Dominic
______________________________________
We are celebrating 10 years of X-Crafts, and to mark this milestone, I am super happy to announce that our once-payware E175 & E195 v2.5 are now free, updated, and fully optimized for X-Plane 12.
The latest version of our Free
The
This version brings a lot of notable improvements, like a Higher Resolution Nav Map displaying TOD, the FPA Autopilot mode, a new vertical path indication, and the Preview mode. While our free
The Free
The Freeware
We always want to make learning our products easy and fun, so just as with the payware
Did you buy our older E-Jets v2.5 before February 2023? You can still get the full E-Jets Family with a 15% discount. This offer is only valid for one year after the E-Jets Family initial release. Looking at the countdown on our website, there are only 7 days left before this discount for previous E-Jets customers expires forever! So don’t miss out if you bought our older E-Jets!
The Free
These models are provided in this final state and no more updates are planned or guaranteed
No customer support is available for our Free
Full Freeware License Agreement Included in the product package
Available for all operating systems. Mac and Linux users please check the installation instructions.
Version 3.0 for X-Plane 12 & Version 2.5 is available for X-Plane 11.
The VSKYLABS NISUS Gyroplane v1.0 was just RELEASED!
Available now with 30% discount!: https://store.x-plane.org/VSKYLABS-NISUS-Gyroplane_p_1886.html
A highly engineered, highly realistic simulation model of the NISUS Gyroplane.
The NISUS Gyroplane is an *innovative* Slovakian Gyroplane developed by JOKERTRIKE s.r.o.
More information can be found at the Nisus Aero website: https://www.nisus-aero.com/
VSKYLABS developed the virtual NISUS Gyroplane following detailed 1st hand references and information, as well as following the official information published by NISUS AERO.
Development notice:
The development of the VSKYLABS Gyroplane NISUS simulation model for X-Plane was approved by JOKERTRIKE s r.o. However, it is an independent VSKYLABS development effort which is not affiliated with JOKERTRIKE s r.o.
VSKYLABS specializes in autogyro simulation engineering. The VSKYLABS NISUS Gyroplane was developed exclusively in X-Plane 12 scientific-based aerodynamics, propulsion and autogyro physics. The aircraft includes simulation of all on-board systems and control aspects of the NISUS gyroplane. Development is also focused on full-VR capability (optimized for non-VR flying).
The VSKYLABS NISUS Gyroplane is a highly engineered, robust autogyro aircraft simulation which makes use of X-Plane 12 sophisticated flight dynamics and physics simulation, extracting it to its limits.
The VSKYLABS NISUS Gyroplane core development-focus is simulating the NISUS Gyroplane performance and flight handling characteristics. The simulated model demonstrates the real-world behavior of the NISUS Gyroplane with high precision. Flight dynamics simulation-to-real-world related differences falls within very close margins.
*Version v1.0 includes the 'Comfort' variant, which is powered by the Rotax 915 iS (141 hp) engine.
Project Highlights
Flying High with Patty Wagstaff: Insights from an Aerobatic Icon - Interview
Conducted by Dominic Smith
Welcome to our exclusive interview with Patty Wagstaff, one of the world's most respected and talented aerobatic pilots.
With a career that spans decades, Patty has not only competed at the highest levels but also passionately teaches the next generation at her flight school in St. Augustine, Florida.
In this interview, Patty opens up about how she first fell in love with flying, her journey to becoming a three-time national aerobatic champion, and her experiences in aviation. She also shares her thoughts on the challenges and future of aerobatic airshows.
Personal
What sparked your love for aviation, and how did it lead you to become a pilot?
Airplanes have always been a part of my life. I vividly remember being in my dad’s B-25 when I was about three years old; it was so cool! New places, new adventures, just made me love everything about flying from a very young age.
Where did you first learn to fly, and who were your mentors during this time? What types of aircraft did you train in?
My journey as a pilot began in Alaska, starting out in Dillingham, a small fishing village in Bristol Bay in the Southwest part of the state. I also spent time training in Anchorage, where I completed my ratings. My very first experience piloting a small plane was in a Cessna 185, taking off from Lake Hood on floats. Living in Dillingham, I took lessons in both a Cessna and a Cherokee. I had some great instructors, including my then-husband.
When and where did you complete your first solo flight, and what stands out to you about that experience?
I took my first solo flight in 1980 at Birchwood Airport, just outside of Anchorage, Alaska. I vividly remember thinking, "I can't believe they're letting me do this!" But they did, and I've never looked back since!
When did you first become an owner of your own aircraft, and what types were they?
My husband Bob and I first owned a Cessna 185, and later we purchased a BE-55 Baron. However, my first aerobatic airplane was a 1977 Super Decathlon.
Aerobatics
What inspired you to pursue aerobatics, and when did you begin your training?
I've always had a keen interest in aerobatics for some reason, even though I’d never been to an airshow. I started taking lessons as soon as I found an instructor in Anchorage. However, it was when I attended an airshow and witnessed the incredible flying skills and camaraderie among the pilots that my interest truly solidified. That experience made it clear to me that aerobatics was exactly what I wanted to do.
Where did you practice your aerobatics, and what kind of training was necessary to achieve your current level of proficiency?
I’ve always approached both flight training and aerobatic training as very methodical processes. It’s essential to take steps one at a time. I started with lessons, and then practiced solo, always high up, gradually adding manoeuvres to my repertoire. Even today, I need to practice regularly to maintain my G tolerance level.
What fitness regime do you follow to maintain your G tolerances?
Fitness is integral to my lifestyle. I engage in biking, horse riding, working out, yoga, and generally maintain an athletic lifestyle. However, when it comes to maintaining G tolerance, nothing beats being in the cockpit as frequently as possible.
What were some of the first aerobatic manoeuvres you performed solo in an aircraft?
I believe the first aerobatic manoeuvres I executed on my own were a loop, a roll, and a spin.
What advice would you give to young people today interested in getting into aerobatics?
Definitely start with lessons! We’ve established an aerobatic school in St. Augustine, Florida, where you can experience your first taste of aerobatics and learn the basics, but there are a lot of places across the country where you can get a start. I would also say it’s important to join the International Aerobatic Club, or IAC, to get more information and to subscribe to their newsletter and magazine (www.iac.org)
Your aerobatics school sounds fantastic! Are there any specific requirements for joining, such as prior flight experience, age, or fitness level?
Anyone is welcome to fly with us, as long as they are a pilot and want to improve their flying skills! We don't have age restrictions; we invite anyone eager to become a better, more skilled, and more confident pilot. Remember, when you're trained in aerobatics, there are no unusual attitudes!
What is it about the EXTRA 300 that you prefer over other aerobatic aircraft?
The Extra series stands out among aerobatic airplanes; they're certified production aircraft that are both strong and lightweight. Remarkably, there has never been a recorded structural failure in an Extra. They're not only safe, reliable, and honest, but they also offer a beautiful harmony of controls that makes them a joy to fly.
What is the most challenging aerobatic manoeuvre you've performed, and why is it so difficult?
The most challenging manoeuvre I perform is probably the snap rolling 360-degree turn. It's particularly tough because it demands intense practice to master coordination and avoid disorientation.
Who are some of the people you admire in the aerobatic community?
I've been fortunate to have wonderful friends and fantastic coaching in the world of aerobatics. There are so many people I look up to; individuals like Clint McHenry, Bob Herendeen, Debbie Gary, Jimmy Franklin, Bobby Younkin, and Leo Loudenslager stand out. However, I truly admire anyone who can carve out a living in this challenging field!
Who was your first ever sponsor, and who are your sponsors now? What role do they play in your aerobatic flying and your school of aerobatic training?
I've been fortunate enough to have many wonderful sponsors throughout my career. Goodrich Aerospace was a very long-term sponsor, but all their divisions have since been bought up by other companies. I have had a lot of help from sponsors such as MT Propeller, Bose Headsets, Sarasota Avionics, MT Propeller, Champion Aerospace, and Concorde Battery.
The Future
Where do you see the business of aerobatic airshows heading, and what changes might we expect in the future?
Airshows have been a staple of aviation almost since its inception, beginning shortly after the Wright Brothers' first flight in 1903. Pilots were quick to showcase their aerobatic skills to the public. I believe as long as we have 'people-powered' airplanes, rather than fully autonomous, computer-controlled ones, airshows will continue.
Even when headline acts like the Blue Angels and Thunderbirds were impacted by budget constraints, smaller airshows still went ahead, much to the delight of large crowds.
What are some of the challenges and goals you have set for yourself going forward?
I’m as busy as ever with flying airshows and operating our aerobatic and upset training school, Patty Wagstaff Aviation Safety. I love having a project and for the past several years have produced several videos with Sporty’s Pilot Shop including Basic Aerobatics and Tailwheel Checkout. We are working on a new one at the moment. I have started a Foundation as well, whose purpose is to improve aviation safety by offering advanced training to pilots who are going into aviation as a career. I’m also working on a small book of stories, so there are lots of things keeping me busy and out of trouble!
Thank you, Patty, for taking the time to share your insights with us at X-Plane.Org. We are honoured you chose to spend this time with us, and it has been an absolute pleasure speaking with you.
From the entire team at X-Plane.Org, we wish you every success in the future.
For more information, write to: [email protected] or visit Patty's website
Accolades
US National Aerobatic Champion
__________________________
Sunday 28th April - What's New in the World of X-Plane
Welcome to our weekly roundup of everything X-Plane.
Here you find a snippet of this week's major events, including standout freeware releases, X-Plane 12 news, developer updates, plus reviews from the guys and gals at XPlaneReviews.
If you enjoy staying up to date with all things X-Plane, please consider following the Weekly Digest (remember you need to be registered).
X-Plane 12 News
The above image was taken from one of our featured articles...
Payware Releases
NYC New SkyScrapers 2024
https://store.x-plane.org/NYC-New-SkyScrapers-2024_p_1882.html
RPLI - Laoag International Airport XP12 XP11
https://store.x-plane.org/RPLI--Laoag-International-Airport-XP12-XP11_p_1884.html
FPS Embraer E-190
https://store.x-plane.org/FPS-Embraer-E-190_p_1880.html
Night XP Germany 3.1
https://store.x-plane.org/Night-XP-Germany-31_p_1885.html
Night XP France 3.1
https://store.x-plane.org/Night-XP-France-31_p_1881.html
Diamond DA40NG (update)
https://store.x-plane.org/Diamond-DA40NG_p_1519.html
Airport Newcastle XP (update)
https://store.x-plane.org/Airport-Newcastle-XP_p_1095.html
Freeware Developer News
Carbon Cub EX3 Development
Further updates from the author:
Freeware DC8-73 in Development
Progress continues on the DC-8:
AH-64D Apache Longbow
Development update from the author:
For additional insights and updates, make sure to delve into the recent posts in the portal. Remember, the newsletter and portal work hand in hand to keep you informed.
Freeware Files
Here are some of this week's standout freeware files.
Scenery
X-Plane 12
Orthophoto Czech Republic ZL 17+ 1.0
https://forums.x-plane.org/index.php?/files/file/90618-orthophoto-czech-republic-zl-17/
By orl_cz
Photoreal SABE Aeroparque Jorge Newbery, Buenos Aires, Argentina. 1.0.6
By ssemmartin
X-Plane 11
X-STOL virtual competitions 1.0.1
https://forums.x-plane.org/index.php?/files/file/90230-x-stol-virtual-competitions/
By Mary_Nik
Aircraft
X-Plane 12
Fokker B-IV or F-11 Amphibian flying-boat 1.0
https://forums.x-plane.org/index.php?/files/file/90572-fokker-b-iv-or-f-11-amphibian-flying-boat/
By Ricovandijk
"Dewoitine" Red Tag D-551
https://forums.x-plane.org/index.php?/files/file/90559-dewoitine-red-tag-d-551zip/
By Tieman.
X-Plane 11
DHC-2T MkIII Turbo Beaver
https://forums.x-plane.org/index.php?/files/file/90629-dhc-2t-mkiii-turbo-beaver/
By Pedrovl
Utilities
A Better Camera (ABC) plugin for X-Plane 11 and X-Plane 12 v1.7.2 #756
By slgoldberg
If you’re a freeware developer working on a project and have some news you would like to share, please contact me via PM and I will cover it in the next update.
XPlaneReviews
Don't forget to check out the latest articles from the guys at XPlaneReviews:
Aircraft Review: Embraer E-190 by Flight Procedures Simulation
By Stephen Dutton
X-Plane 12 Tips
This forum section provides tips for solving common and not-so-common X-Plane 12 problems.
https://forums.x-plane.org/index.php?/clubs/76-x-plane12-tips/
By Dave Britzius
Airport of the Week
Can you guess the name of the airport below?
If so, why not attach a screenshot in the comments section...but DO NOT mention the name (gives others a chance)
Clue: This airport, named after a key figure from early Christianity, serves as a gateway to a region known for its rich tapestry of cultures, rugged landscapes, and one of Europe’s deepest and oldest lakes. Situated in the southeastern part of Europe, can you identify this airport?
Well done to “mystic” Gason71, MarcXP, J.K., TacanTom, and Lysan, who navigated through last week's most challenging Airport of the Week yet! The mystery airport was none other than Boonah Airfield (YBOA) in Queensland, Australia. A big thank you to everyone who persevered with this rather tough puzzle, your efforts were greatly appreciated
This week's X-Plane Videos
Upgrade Your Home Flight Simulator: 12 Game-Changing Add-Ons
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kqW7h6JE56M
X-Plane 12 | FPS Embraer E-190 | EGPH-EGLL | First Look Review
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d8mxWDzkZt0
Patty Wagstaff Extra 300 Virtual Airshow in VR/360
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XlqpAIUOlwU
Stay safe and see you next week!
Dominic
______________________________________
Developer Spotlight Feature
Mango Studios
Conducted by Dominic Smith
In our latest Developer Spotlight, we are thrilled to feature Simon, the innovative mind behind Mango Studios, based in Miami, Florida, known for their exceptional X-Plane sound packs. Simon shares his journey from an early interest in sound design to becoming the leader of a premier sound pack developer and discusses the creative passion that drives Mango Studios' ongoing growth.
Simon, could I start by asking how Mango Studios began, what its initial vision was, and how you came up with the name?
Mango Studios started as a one-man project driven by my personal dissatisfaction with the sound quality of some high-priced aircraft models in X-Plane. Frustrated by the subpar .wav files, I decided to take matters into my own hands and began creating improved sound files. My first freeware add-on was for the SSG 748. The turning point came when a friend, disappointed by the sounds in a pricey add-on aircraft he purchased, asked me to create some enhanced sounds for him. This project evolved significantly from just replacing a few files; I ended up developing a comprehensive FMOD sound pack, which was released as Mango Studios’ first product, the Flight Factor A350 Sound Pack. Throughout this process, I was fortunate to have the support of a friend, Wolfair, who was incredibly patient and instrumental in helping me master FMOD. As for the name "Mango Studios," it was inspired by fond childhood memories of my grandmother’s mango tree in Venezuela. Naming the company after her and those cherished moments felt like the perfect tribute.
Can you walk us through the process of capturing and creating the sounds for an aircraft pack?
Absolutely! The process begins with our team reaching out to a network of pilots, flight engineers, and maintenance hangars to gather authentic sound samples. After selecting the ideal sounds for our sound pack, we import these recordings into our studio. Here, we meticulously modify and tailor each sound to meet the specific requirements of the aircraft pack we are developing.
What are the most challenging sounds to capture and recreate in X-Plane?
The most challenging sounds to capture are often the miscellaneous ones, such as windshield wipers, warning signals, and seat motor sounds, especially in Airbus models. These sounds are particularly tricky to isolate because they're frequently masked by louder, more dominant noises like the aircraft’s air conditioning packs, passenger chatter, avionics, and the myriad of other sounds simultaneously occurring in an airliner.
Are there any particular technologies or software that are crucial to your sound pack development?
A key piece of technology in our sound pack development is my portable audio recording device. I take it with me everywhere, especially when flying, to ensure I capture every possible sound. This thorough recording process allows us to potentially utilize these sounds in our products later on.
How do you test the sounds within X-Plane to ensure they are as realistic as possible?
We have a dedicated team of testers who meticulously check for any bugs or minor issues. Once we confirm that there are no problems, we begin the detailed process of tweaking the sounds. This involves comparing our sounds to the videos we’ve recorded or received, ensuring that the final product is as realistic as possible.
What has been the most challenging project for Mango Studios, and what made it so?
The MD-11 Sound Pack was undoubtedly our most challenging project. Finding the necessary audio samples was particularly difficult; there were virtually no suitable recordings available online, and even direct contacts with pilots and mechanics yielded very little usable material. This scarcity of resources significantly prolonged the development process. Additionally, this project was our first attempt at creating sound packs for dual engine variants through our plugin, as well as our first engine modification. These complexities combined to make the project immensely challenging, stretching over several months before we could finally release the product.
How do you incorporate community feedback into your development process?
We place great importance on ensuring that every customer is heard. Whenever we receive feedback, we take it seriously, documenting each comment in our testing feedback section. If the feedback points to a bug, we record it in our bug list. This documentation helps us continuously improve our products based on user insights.
Have you worked with aircraft developers to synchronize your sound packs with their models? What does this collaboration look like?
Our collaboration with aircraft developers has mostly been indirect. For instance, we worked with Rotate to obtain a list of data references related to the MD-11’s EGPWS/TCAS warnings. This collaboration enabled us to ensure that all necessary warnings were accurately included in our sound pack. Additionally, we've directly collaborated with AKD, where we completely remade and enhanced some sounds at his request. He was extremely satisfied with the upgraded sounds within his budget. We are also engaging with a few other small developers on projects, though details of these are not yet public.
Which of your sound packs has received the most significant community response, and why do you think it resonated so well?
I believe our A350 Sound Pack has garnered the most significant community response. Despite being almost 3-4 years old, it continues to receive a high volume of orders. We think it resonates so well because of its enduring quality and relevance to our users' needs. Encouraged by this lasting popularity, we are planning to further enhance this sound pack soon.
Are there any new or upcoming projects you’re particularly excited about? What can the X-Plane community look forward to?
I am both thrilled and excited to begin work on a sound pack for the IXEG 737. It's a project I've been eager to start for a long time, as I've always wanted to create sounds for a 737. Additionally, we are on the brink of releasing a Version 2 update for our sound pack for the SSG 747-8. These projects are sure to bring some exciting developments to the X-Plane community.
How do you see the role of sound design evolving in X-Plane over the next few years?
I believe that the standards for sound in X-Plane are set to rise significantly. At Mango Studios, we're prepared to adapt to these increasing demands in any necessary way. Our aim is to continually evolve and refine our sound packs to meet and surpass these new standards.
If you could create a sound pack without any constraints, what would it be and why?
If I had no constraints, my dream project would be to fully recreate the MD-80 Sound Pack, capturing every unique sound and noise the aircraft makes. The MD-80 is one of my all-time favourite aircraft, but due to its age, it's been challenging to collect every desired sound. With unlimited resources, I'd love the opportunity to develop a truly comprehensive and authentic sound pack for this classic plane.
Are there any individuals in your life that have significantly influenced your approach to your work at Mango Studios?
Two pivotal figures have greatly shaped Mango Studios. The first is my good friend Wolfair, who not only taught me how to use FMOD but also provided invaluable advice throughout my journey. The second is Nicky, our Media/Support Director. Nicky has profoundly transformed the trajectory and quality of our products. His proactive involvement in our development process and his willingness to voice his opinions are qualities that I deeply value and rely on. Together, they have been instrumental in shaping the direction and success of Mango Studios.
How do you balance your passion for sound design and flight simulation with other aspects of your life?
Balancing my passion for sound design with other life commitments can be challenging. Currently, as I pursue a career in commercial aviation and navigate the demands of flight school and various exams, Mango Studios isn't always my top priority. However, I'm fortunate to have a supportive team, especially Nicky, our Media/Support Director. He reliably steps in to manage responsibilities whenever I'm stretched thin, ensuring that our projects maintain momentum.
Besides aviation, do any other hobbies inspire your approach to sound design at Mango Studios?
Yes, my interest in cars, particularly rebuilding my 2006 Subaru STi, has been influential. This hobby has taught me the value of patience in building something you love. At Mango Studios, this patience has transformed how I approach detailed tasks. Initially, I found creating sounds for every cockpit button overwhelming, but now I find it relaxing and fulfilling.
Lastly, Simon, if you could choose one feature to be added to X-Plane in the future, what would it be and why?
I’d like to see more realistic ground handling, as the present ground handling has always seemed off to me. Enhancing this feature would not only improve realism but also allow me to develop specific sounds for it, which I’d really enjoy.
___________________________
Simon, thank you for sharing the story behind Mango Studios. We wish you every success in your future projects.
Mango Studios sound packs are available to purchase in the Org Store
From the developers of
FS Instant Approach
Here's a quick Aircraft Components Quiz for a bit of fun! ?
Please post your scores and feedback here!
- FSInventions
In case you missed them the first time around we also have other Aviation/Sim quizzes:
By Ayush211002 · Posted
By Andrew Selder · Posted
By Steve.Wilson · Posted
By spongebob06140 · Posted