We gave us some time to cook this up. This update is packed with a ton of bug fixes, improvements and new features. The biggest highlights? Our brand-new Sperry-150 Autopilot, the renewed Forward Pedestal and the new handy Flightplan Clipboard.
SPERRY-150 🆕
The Sperry-150 autopilot was a key system used in the Boeing 727, providing essential flight control automation in an era before modern digital avionics. Developed by Sperry Flight Systems, it was a fully analog system designed to handle basic autopilot functions such as altitude hold, heading selection, and approach modes. Unlike later glass cockpit systems, the Sperry-150 relied on mechanical components and electromechanical logic.
For our Microsoft Flight Simulator version, we have carefully recreated its functionality to provide an authentic experience. Based on customer feedback, we have now added the option to assign hardware buttons, allowing for a more flexible and convenient operation, especially for those using dedicated hardware setups. This update ensures a more intuitive workflow while preserving the original feel of this classic autopilot system.
GNS-XLS Update
Our GNS-XLS now supports Airway entry, making the manual input of longer routes more convenient and aligning the system more closely with real-world operations. This update streamlines flight planning, reduces workload, and improves usability, especially for complex routings. To take full advantage of this feature, please refer to the relevant section in our documentation. We also overhauled the forward pedestal panel and included a WX & Terrain radar dummy screen.
Sound Updates
We have made several improvements to the sound design, including a more finely tuned soundset with adjusted volume levels and improved sound positioning within the aircraft. Additionally, we have implemented new rattle sounds, adding more life to the aircraft and enhancing immersion.
Of course, we have also addressed bug fixes, such as resolving an issue where rolling sounds could be heard even when the aircraft was stationary, ensuring a more accurate and realistic audio experience.
Fuel system overhaul
We have taken a deeper dive into the fuel system, working closely with real 727 flight engineers to fine-tune its behavior and eliminate existing shortcomings. These improvements ensure a more accurate and reliable simulation of fuel management.
Be bold and take control of the fuel management yourself—give your virtual flight engineer a well-deserved break! But make sure to have everything under control!
Flightplan Clipboard
Thanks to our dedicated community member ABC, you now have a convenient clipboard at your disposal. Simply remove it from the holder on the flight deck wall, and you can load your SimBrief OFP directly onto it. Whether you need it on the Flight Engineer's table or the Forward Pedestal, the clipboard is designed for flexibility.
This is especially useful for CIVA INS users, as it allows you to keep all your waypoint coordinates right next to your INS system for easy reference. Additionally, all users can now more easily monitor their fuel consumption and compare it with the planned values, ensuring greater accuracy and efficiency during flights.
Changelog v1.0.8
Bug Fixes:
- #784 - Radio Altimeter dials bug fixed
- #731 - ADI Deflection logic updated
- #1252 - Fixed Fuel Cross Feed logic
- #1254 - TAT logic on C&D spawn fixed
- #1213 - Fixed fuel feeding while pumps off
- #1052 - Tank 3 isolated from rest of fuel system
- #1213 - Fuel feeding while pumps off has returned
- #1227 - Window & Pitot Heat logic fixed
- #1028 - CIVA INS - DME updating issue reworked
- #1132 - Bleed Switches and Pneumatic system instrument value reworked
- #1185 - Lights flicker on ENG GEN fixed
- #1228 - Ground roll sounds incorrect trigger fixed
- #1285 - GNS-XLS - fixed wrong WPT selection on duplicates
- #1282 - CC Fuel Feeding constantly flipping boost pumps
- #1232 - Initial thrust to get the 727 rolling is too high [Break way thrust]
- #1276 - Spawn in Air - Electrical AC buses is not connected
- #1270 - EPR calculation not correct for takeoff
- #752 - Clipboard - Setting EPR, Trim, Speeds when doing a turn uses last settings
- #1224 - GNS-XLS: HSI Needle jumping/snapping
- #1210 - GNS-XLS: Distance not updated
- #1217 - GNS-XLS: No Navigraph Flightplan Import
- #1228 - Ground roll wrong trigger
- #1132 - Bleed Switches and Pneumatic System fixed various issues
- #1028 - CIVA INS: DME updating issues
- #1230 - EFB Descent and Landing page sometimes inoperational
- #772 - Gear Door Lights on ground
- #1185 - Lights flickering on Engines generators
- #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
- #1130 - Bleed Air switches behavior reworked
- #1174 - Rudder sys test logic fixed
- #1135 - Flap retraction indication fixed
- #1170 - EGT indication incorrect behavior fixed
Improvements:
- #1209 - GNS-XLS: Navigraph navdata will automatically be used if available
- #1269 - Automatically set Speed and EPR bugs on runway spawning
- #1270 - Tuned EPR calculation in EFB to better match original charts
- #179 - Flaps stress animation added
- #1054 - Engine phasing effects improved
- #1165 - FE - Vocal confirmation of checklist start added
- #1168 - Engine sounds overhauled
Features:
- #974 - Sperry 150 - New AP panel with VS wheel
- #1193 - GNS-XLS: Added Airway Selection Flightplan
- #1290 - SimBrief Clipboard by K Hofmann
- #907 - Safety Vest can now be hidden by clickspot
- #779 - Single Clickspot for Multiple Light Switches
- #1271 - Added terrain radar (no function, just a dummy)
- #1269 - Automatically set Speed and EPR bugs on runway spawning
- #1284 - VHF1+2 should be enabled by default
- #831 - Add option to disable exhaust smoke effect