B727 Update 1.0.7

This update is packed with excitement! We've made significant improvements to the internal systems of the 727 and added a ton of new features. The biggest highlight? Our brand-new "old-school FMC," the Honeywell GNS-XLS.

GNS-XLS 🆕

The GNS-XLS is a single-box flight management computer that rivals modern systems in terms of features. However, its operation reflects an older generation and was often retrofitted into various aircraft back in the day. It offers everything you need for a fully featured flight, even when flying on online networks like VATSIM or IVAO. Holdings and even VNAV are included—though VNAV is advisory only. That means the autopilot can't be coupled to the vertical profile. But that’s not the GNS-XLS’s fault - it’s due to the 727’s autopilot, which lacks an external input channel for vertical control. But let’s be honest, as seasoned 727 pilots, you’ll probably disregard the calculated Top of Descent and take full control of your descent planning anyway, right? 😉

Additionally, we’ve added direct SimBrief flight plan integration. You can also manually enter and save your own flight plans. No separate nav database is needed - we rely on the MSFS default nav data, which is automatically updated via Navigraph (subscription required).

Oh, and if you’re looking for the moving map, it’s accessible via the AFIS button - don’t ask why, that wasn’t our idea... 😀

System Updates

We’ve been busy fixing and refining various systems to make them even more realistic. For example, engine gauges now behave more accurately during startup and shutdown, and some hydraulic logic issues have been resolved. But that’s not all - there are several smaller but meaningful improvements, too. We’ve introduced new approach callouts, which you can easily toggle on and off using the clipboard. You’ll also hear a voice callout when a Crew Manager flow is completed. On top of that, we’ve fine-tuned the 3D model to improve the readability of decals, ensuring everything looks crisp and clear.

Engine performance has also received some love. We’ve tweaked the figures to simulate individual engine life-cycles, which means the needle readings on your gauges will now show more natural variation - just like in the real world. And speaking of realism, we’ve reworked the bleed air system to get a more realistic simulation.

Sound Updates

Sound is a huge part of immersion, and we’ve put in more work to bring it to a new level. We’ve rearranged the sound sources throughout the aircraft to create a more immersive and dynamic atmosphere. As part of this overhaul, we also addressed an electrical sound anomaly that sometimes played over all other audio - don’t worry, that one’s gone for good. We’ve also smoothed out other sound-related issues here and there, ensuring a clean and consistent audio experience whether you’re inside the cockpit or enjoying a fly-by from the outside.

Passenger Version

You’ve probably heard by now that we’re deep into developing the Passenger Version of the Boeing 727-200, which is on track for release in Q2 of 2025. Right now, we’re busy preparing the 3D exterior and cabin model while carefully evaluating what’s needed to deliver a truly immersive passenger experience.

One detail we’re particularly excited about is the flap stress animation. This feature recreates the distinctive flap vibrations seen during takeoff and landing when airflow hits the extended surfaces - something you’d typically notice more on passenger flights than cargo operations.

However, since the development of this animation wrapped up recently, we thought, “Why hold it back?” So, we’ve decided to include it in the cargo version of the 727 as well. After all, who doesn’t enjoy a little extra attention to detail?

Modernized Radio System

We’ve now integrated a more modern radio unit, which also supports EU 8.33kHz spacing. You can switch to the new system via the newly added Options Page on the clipboard.

More modern instruments are planned for the future - stay tuned for updates in the new year!

GSX Integration

To integrate GSX animations seamlessly, we’ve added a button next to the loading sections on the Preflight Page of the clipboard. Simply click this button before pressing "Play" to activate GSX services and enjoy the animations. While GSX animations provide a great visual experience, the actual loading of the aircraft still happens through our integrated procedure. This means you should not load the aircraft using the GSX menu!

We’ve also added triggers that automatically start the Pushback/Departure and Deboarding processes. You can find more details in our documentation.

Flight Simulator 2024

We’re currently in the final stages of preparing a FS24-compatible version of the 727. This version will largely match the current one, with only minor technical compromises. It won’t include any of the new simulator’s native features, but all existing customers will receive this update for free. In the future, we’ll begin work on a fully native FS24 version, designed to take full advantage of the new sim’s capabilities. However, this version will come with an additional cost. For now, it’s still too early to start.

Changelog v1.0.7

Bug Fixes:

#728 - Lighting - FO instruments are off in many spawn state updated
#747 - Engine/Generator oil temps drop instantly fixed
#536 - Duct pressure readings updated
#791 - Flap animation snapping fixed
#763 - Clock hand logic updated
#486 - Window heat functionality updated
#616 - Alternate flaps indication updated
#886 - Clock relation to EFB selection fixed
#1186 - Fixed Engine Start/Shutdown sounds missing on external view
#1132 - Bleed Switches and Pneumatic system instrument value reworked
#1130 - Bleed Air switches behavior reworked
#1174 - Rudder sys test logic fixed
#1135 - Flap retraction indication fixed
#1170 - EGT indication incorrect behavior fixed

Improvements:

#179 - Flaps stress animation added
#1054 - Engine phasing effects improved
#1165 - FE - Vocal confirmation of checklist start added
#1168 - Engine sounds overhauled

Features:

FSS GNS-XLS flight management computer added
GSX auto services added