VSKYLABS Aeropro EuroFOX Project

The VSKYLABS Aeropro EuroFOX Project

JetManHuss - VSKYLABS (c) 2023 All Rights Reserved.

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Separate native products for X-PLANE 12 and X-PLANE 11, for your selection.

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MINIMUM HARDWARE REQUIREMENTS FOR X-PLANE 12

Disk Space: 25GB
CPU: Intel Core i3, i5, i7, or i9 CPU with 4 or more cores, or AMD Ryzen 3, 5, 7 or 9.
(Those with other CPUs should try the demo before purchasing.)
Memory: 8 GB RAM
Video Card: a Vulkan 1.3-capable video card from NVIDIA or AMD with at least 2 GB VRAM
Note: Intel GPUs are not supported by X-Plane 12.

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Development notices:

 

The development of the VSKYLABS Aeropro EuroFOX Project for X-Plane was approved by Aeropro. Although acknowledged by Aeropro, it is an independent VSKYLABS project which is not affiliated with and/or endorsed by Aeropro.

 

The development and implementation of the VSKYLABS 'Alpha Systems AOA' virtual indicators in the VSKYLABS fleet for X-Plane was approved by 'Alpha Systems AOA'. However, it is an independent development effort which is not affiliated with 'Alpha Systems AOA'.

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Project Introduction

 

The VSKYLABS Aeropro EuroFOX project for X-Plane is designed with the focus on simplicity and effectiveness. The flight model is tuned to meet with the 'original' Aeroprakt EuroFOX aircraft flight handling characteristics and operational techniques.

The project consists Three versions of the EuroFOX; The Tricycle (Known in the US as the 'Aerotrek 240'), the standard Tail wheel version ('Aerotrek 220'), and the Tundra tires Tail wheel version ('Aerotrek 220 STOL'). All three variants are equipped with the Rotax 912/100 hp engine.

 

Autoupdater based on the SkunkCrafts autoupdater (XP12 only) - all updates are being pushed smoothly without the need to re-download the entire base package (base package will be updated every once in a while to minimize the gap).

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Project Highlights

 

• Three aircraft included (A240/A220/A220-STOL).
• Designed for X-Plane 12 cutting edge flight model environment. Authentic flight dynamics with authentic performance and flight handling characteristics.
• Built for VR: Tailored for VR, and optimized for 2D usage.
• Engineered and designed as a genuine, default X-Plane 12 aircraft. The VSKYLABS projects are practically show-casing X-Plane, as they are stretching X-Plane default features, systems and flight model to its limits without any dependencies on complementary plugins or software...delivering a very robust simulation model, having maximum compatibility with the ever evolving X-Plane flight simulator.
• Perfect fit for beginner and expert pilots. Practice your skills through the Tricycle landing gears EuroFOX, Tail-Wheel variant, and a STOL Bush-Plane variant.
• Equipped with Alpha Systems AOA 'Eagle' indicator replica.
• Built-in Avitab Plugin Compatibility (AviTab plugin is not included).
• FMOD 2.0 sound pack.
• Autoupdater based on the SkunkCrafts autoupdater - all updates are being pushed smoothly without the need to re-download the entire base package (base package will be updated every once in a while to minimize the gap).
• Highly responsive VSKYLABS support forums: VSKYLABS offers continuous professional support, from all aircraft related aspects (operating and flying) to X-Plane technical support.
• The project is under constant maintenance and development.

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EuroFOX background and history

The Aeropro company was formed in 1990, in Slovakia. Since 1999, two versions have been produced; Tricycle and Tail-dragger configurations. Both versions features an enclosed cabin with two-side-by-side seats and folding wings. In Europe, the EuroFOX is sold in both kit form and factory complete form. In the USA, it is only available as a factory built aircraft.

In the USA and Canada, the EuroFOX is marketed by Aerotrek, and it's two versions (Tricycle, Tail-dragger) are named A240 (Tricycle) and A220 (Tail-dragger). Both versions are offered with the 80 hp Rotax 912UL and the 100 hp Rotax 912ULS engines.

Aircraft variants:

• EuroFOX-3K: Tri gear version. Sold in North America as the Aerotrek A240.
• EuroFOX-2K: Tailwheel version. Sold in North America as the Aerotrek A220.
• EuroFOX-2K/STOL.

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Useful External links and Documents

The project includes a comprehensive POH/Manual. For additional reference, here are links for the real-world EuroFOX Pilot Operating Handbook and Flight Training Supplements.

The following links are brought here for additional reference. The links and the content are not related/connected to VSKYLABS, presented here 'as-is' for reference and information purpose only:

 

• Aeropro Aircraft website: https://www.aeropro.sk/
• EuroFOX Aviation EuroFOX POH (for both Nose wheel and Tail wheel): http://www.eurofoxuk.co.uk/EuroFOX%20Aviation%20Type%20Approved%20Microlight%20Pilot%20Operating%20Handbook%20issue%206.0.pdf
• A240 (EuroFOX-3K) Pilot Operating Handbook: http://www.aerotrek.aero/manuals/a240-poh.pdf
• A220 (EuroFOX-2K) Pilot Operating Handbook: http://www.aerotrek.aero/manuals/a220-poh.pdf
• A240/A220 Maintenance Manual: http://www.aerotrek.aero/manuals/maintenance-manual.pdf
• EuroFOX LSA Maintenance Manual: http://www.eurofoxuk.co.uk/Maintenance%20Manual%20LSA%20UK%20issue%201.pdf

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Pilot's Operating Handbook

<Included in the package>

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Update Log

VSKYLABS Aeropro EuroFOX Project
JetManHuss - VSKYLABS (c) 2023 All Rights Reserved.

 

XP12 - v8.0e (20th/22nd March 2023):

• v8.0e - fix to mirrored textures ('Alaskan Bushwheel').
• FDM - Physics and aircraft performance (all 3 variants):
  • Aircraft drag update.
  • Engine power update.
  • Propeller design update.
  • Fuel consumption update.
  • Cruise performance update.
  • Landing gears update, including suspention and ground handling characteristics.
  • A240 - landing gears design update (new wheels, removed wheel-pants from the mains).
  • A220 STOL - landing gears design update - new tundra-tires with updated physics.
  • A220 STOL - LE slats performance update.
• Systems:
  • New analog panel layout.
  • Remodelled panel, switches, gauges and gauges.
  • New altimeter (dual system).
  • Remodeled/re-wired VSL Autopilot panel.
  • New 'Alpha Systems AOA' Eagle AOA indicator.
  • New GNS530 (old VHF radio removed).
  • New Transponder (old transponder removed).
  • Avionics wiring change: All avionics are tied to 'avionics' switch with separate GPS, and AP servo switches.
• 3-d modeling:
  • Complete re-mapping of the aircraft (externally) and massive re-mapping for the interiors (older liveries are not compatible with the v8.0!).
  • New added paint-kit.
  • New 6 liveries included.
  • New propeller 3-d model.
  • New landing gears for A220 tundra, A240.
  • Aircraft internal architecture re-engineering (shared parts, various fixes).
  • Interior aircraft 'shell' - remodeled.
  • Cockpit floor - remodeled, retextured.
  • Rudder pedals - remodeled.
  • Texture enhancements all-around.
  • Windsheilds remodeled and re-textured.
  • New prop-disc textures.
• Sounds:
  • New FMOD 2.0 sound pack.
  • New engines sounds in and out.
  • All-around improvements.
• Manual/POH:
  • Whole new pdf manual/POH.
• VR interaction:
  • Cockpit VR interaction refinements (doors, switches).

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XP12 - v7.2 (4th December 2022):

• Interior lighting system reset and retuned to comply with the modified X-Plane 12.00r1+ lighting engine.

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XP12 - Version v7.1 (23th November 2022):

• Updater software replaced - from STMA to SkunkCrafts. 

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XP12 - v7.0 (September 2022):

• X-Plane 12 version release.

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XP11 - v6.04e (28th February 2021):

• Electrical system fix:
  • Alternator is now being engaged slightly above idle rpm.
  • Charge control light indication is now showing when actual
    charging is taking place.

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XP11 - v6.04c (20th September 2020):

• Flight Dynamics:
  • All variants - flight dynamics fine-tuning (engine power gradient, aircraft
    drag).

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XP11 - v6.04a (14th December 2019):

• Systems:
  • DG drift (after flight reset) - fixed
• ICAO name changed from X-EFOX to EFOX

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XP11 - v6.04 (13th December 2019):

• Systems:
  • Fully operational fuel system was set. Make sure to operate the fuel valves
    during flight (master fuel valve underneath the cockpit panel - on the left
    side, left/right tanks fuel valves behind the seats, on the sides).
• 3D modeling:
  
  • Initial, simplified additions were made (will be fully detailed down the
    development road):
    • Animated Elevator trim plate was added.
    • Rudder trim plate was added (fixed, just as in the real aircraft).
• Interaction:
  • Altimeter setting sensitivity tuneup.

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XP11 - v6.02 (12th December 2019):

• Interaction:
  • Airspeed indicator is now having the following scales:
  • mph + knots (combined with a dual scale).
  • kph (click on the ASI bezel to toggle).
• Systems:
  • Fully operational choke system was added.

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XP11 - v6.0 (10th December 2019):

• Project internal architecture - preparations for painting kit(and for partial
  re-mapping):
  • All 3 variants are now sharing a single fuselage texture file.
  • All 3 variants are now sharing a single panel texture file.
  • All 3 variants are now sharing a single panel (preps for features
    implementations for all variants at once).
• Interaction:
  • Co-pilot was added, will be visible when the payload exceeds his weight (~73
    kg / ~160 pounds).
  • Interior modeling + texturing rework:
  • ~80% of the textures are of enhanced resolution.
  • Seats, seat belts remodeled.
  • Baggage compartment accessories (bag, first aid kit) were added.
  • Main panel - instruments (modeling, PBR, night textures).
  • Glass covers added to warning lights.
  • Carbon monoxide detector was added.
  • Front cockpit frame rods dash-opening.
  • Transponder is now standard is width.
• Exterior modeling + textures:
  
  • PBR works all around.
  • Air scoops intakes remodeled.
• Systems:
  • Magneto rocker switches datarefs changed (now slider[1], slider[2]).
  • Cockpit lighting for night flight was added (connected to the main bus -
    switch on automatically when there is current).
  • Low-res magnetic compass was replaced with DG.

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XP11 - v5.4 (10th November 2019):

• Flight Model:
  • The projectis now designed for use with X-Plane 11.40+ Experimental
    flight model.
  • Engine and propeller performance, drag, CG, handling characteristics and
    STOL performance were updated to X-Plane 11.40+ Experimental flight
    model environment.

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XP11 - v5.3c (28th September 2019):

• Flight Model:
  • Landing gears - tires friction tuneup to hold sufficient braking power in
    sloped conditions.

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XP11 - v5.3b (27th June 2019):

• Engine temps:
  • CHT, Oil working temperatures refinements.

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XP11 - v5.3a (21th November 2018):

• AviTab:
  • AviTab tablet is now hidden by default. To show it, use the Custom-Slider#1
    toggle (key/button assignment).
  • In the near future - more intuitive method for showing/hiding the AviTab will
    be implemented.

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XP11 - v5.3 (20th November 2018:

• Flight Dynamics:
  • Idle gliding performance tuned.
  • Tail-wheel redesigned to allow better handling in 3-point landings.
  • STOL variant tune-up.
  • Overall performace tuneup.
  • Engine and prop tuneup.
• 3D Modeling and textures:
  • Internal objects optimizations.
  • Higher resolution for Tundra-tires.
• Systems and operation:
  • Radio awakes 'ON' state-fixed.
• FMOD:
  • FMOD errors in log.txt fixed.
• General:
  • Aircraft classification is now 'Experimental'.
  • Pilot-head position tuned.
• Auto Updater:
  • STMA AutoUpdater plugin was added.

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XP11 - v5.2 (2nd November 2018):

• Fix to Joystick command issues with X-Plane 11.30b1+

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XP11 - v5.1b2 (3rd October 2018):

• Built-in AviTab plugin compatibility:
  • New version v5.1b2 is now featuring a built-in AviTab plugin compatibility.
• VR Experience:
  • A new vrconfig.txt file was created to allow realistic yoke and hotspots for
    pilot/co-pilot seats.
  • X-Plane's VR iPad is now placed inside the maps compartment by default.
    * The AviTab plugin is a freeware plugin which is not included nor part of the VSKYLABS Aeropro EuroFOX Project. The plugin is allowing the usage of a virtual Tablet to visualize moving maps, charts, pdf files etc... Using the AviTab plugin with the VSKYLABS Aeropro EuroFOX Project is by user discretion.

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XP11 - v5.1b1 (29th July 2018):

• Flight Dynamics Model:
  • Upgraded to the 100hp Rotax 912 ULS engine (all variants).
  • Re-designed propeller physics (all variants).
  • All-around flight handling and flight characteristics maintenance (all
    variants).
  • Experimental STOL variant was modified to include fixed leading edge slots
    and enlarged flaperons for better STOL performance.

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XP11 - v5.0b1 (18th June 2018):

• 3D modeling:
  • Internal engineering modification to allow different cockpit panel layout for
    each variant in the future.
  • Artificial Horizon and engine instrument gauges remodeled in 3D.
  • Low resolution textures for most of the cockpit panel was upgraded to high
    resolution.
  • PBR normals for the aircraft were added (interior/exterior).
  • Glass rendering tuneup.
  • Animated doors added (initial version).
• Systems/Interaction:
  • COM1,2/NAV1,2 animated, functional volume knobs were added.
  • LSA grade (basic) Autopilot system was added.
• VR compatibility:
  • VR configuration file was added to allow 'Realistic Yoke' feature to work.
• Flight Dynamics Model:
  • Fight Dynamics Model maintenance and tuneup.

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XP11 - v4.0b (21st May 2018):

• Magnetos system fix:
• Occasional failures to the magnetos system fixed.

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XP11 - v4.0 (6th February 2018):

• Fully functional, VR ready aircraft:
  • All handles, switches, knobs, sticks etc... are fully defined and optimized for
    X-Plane 11.20 native VR.
• New FMOD sound package:
  • FMOD sound pack (constantly under development).
• Flight Dynamics Model & systems:
  • Tundra tires version drag tuneup.
  • Various systems tuneup.
  • Choke was set off in version v4.0 since the aircraft is now featuring an auto
    mixture setup, as the real Rotax EuroFOX. Choke lever will be back in future
    updates.

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XP11 - v3.7 (20th November 2017):

• This update was triggered to encounter some engine issues which were detected in
  X-Plane 11.10 beta versions. It is a minor update in terms of features, but a major
  update in terms of internal engineering and preparation for the upcoming updates.
• X-Plane 11.10 "ready":
  
  • Fixes to engine's simulation model for X-Plane 11.10 compatibility.
• Interactivity:
  • Improved cockpit manipulators layout.
• Internal engineering:
  • All three variants (240,220,220-Tundra version) are packed now in a single
    folder.
  • Internal model engineering preparations for the upcoming updates.
• X-Plane 10.51 support ended:
  • The package is no longer including and supporting X-Plane 10.

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XP11/10 - v3.6 (28th May 2017):

• Aircraft performance and handling tuneup - mainly in the full-flaps/final approach and
  landing phases of flight. The aircraft is having now a slightly increased descent rate with
  full-flaps, and overall flaps drag and lift coefficients for the whole plane was refined.
• GNS 530 interface is now clickable (you can operate it with or without using the pop-up
  window).
• 2D view with HUD is showing now only the HUD.
• Cockpit object camera movement restrictions - now you can't move through the walls
  and panel.

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XP11/10 - v3.5 (20th April 2017):

• MAJOR UPDATE RELEASE - New (3rd) aircraftincluded:
  • Bush Plane version of the EuroFOX A220 aircraft, equipped with Tundra
    tires.
  • Flaps and Drag are slightly modified, as expected in real life STOL aircraft
    modifications. It is more close to a "bush-plane"in terms of short takeoffs
    and landings capabilities, but it is still a "EuroFOX"(challenging to land on
    the spot because of its flaps design).
  • The Tundra-tires version is located in the A220 folder of the package. Both
    the A220/Standard and A220/Tundra are located in the same folder.
• Performance fine-tuning for the A240/A220 models (drag and flaps handling).
• Separate Icons for each aircraft (for the X-Plane 10.51 versions).

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XP11/10 - v3.4 (8th April 2017):

• Flight dynamics model fixes and tuning:
  
  • Engine simulation - *Internal* flight model fix to rotation settings.
  • Braking power *reduced* - to allow more authority when braking (especially
    in the A220 model). This tuning makes it easier to manage the brakes without
    having a propeller strike while running. X-Plane has two levels of braking
    command (when using/assigning a key/button to braking). For the higher
    speed range, use the "Normal" braking assignment, and when really slow or
    standing still for engine run-up or in an emergency, use the "Maximum
    braking effort".
  • These are X-Plane's default keys for braking:
    
    • 'b' = normal brake.
    • 'v' = maximum braking effort.

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XP11/10 - v3.3 (8th April 2017):

• Minor fix to the Fuel Gauges display mechanism.

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XP11/10 - v3.2 (5th March 2017):

• This is a Flight Dynamics fine tuneup release. Current version is:
  • EuroFOX A240: v003.2
  • EuroFOX A220: v003.2
• Flight Dynamic Modeltuneup (both models):
  • Sink rate is a bit steeper with full flaps, which allows now a more slower and
    steeper finals to get this little fellow to land on the spot, more comfortably.
  • Performance fine tuning: the aircraft should feel a tiny bit more "lazy",
    especially in the roll axis, for more realistic handling characteristics.
  • Pitch Trim is a bit slower in response, will allow to fine-tune the pitch trim
    during cruise more comfortably.
• 3D model:
  • Minor 3D model texture fix for both models.

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XP11/10 - v3.1a (2th March 2017):

• This is a minor-fix release (textures and 3D model fixes to the EuroFOX A220 model). Current version is:
  • EuroFOX A240: v003.1a (same version as the last one).
  • EuroFOX A220: v003.1afix (minor fixes to textures and 3D model).

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XP11/10 - v3.1a (1th March 2017):

• Additional aircraftincluded:
  • The tail wheel A220 aircraft was added.
• Flight dynamics model tuneup:
  • Cruise speed tune-up - now slightly higher in both models.
  • Total performance of the EuroFOX is now tuned to its final phase; long run
    fine tuning may proceed in future versions.
• Pilot functionality:
  • Due to requests for fixing a Kilometers Per Hour (km/h) airspeed gauge, I've
    set up both the A240 and the A220 with a switchable Air Speed Indicator. To
    toggle between mph and kph, just click on the Air Speed Indicator edges.

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XP11/10 - v3.1 (26th Feb 2017):

• This is a Major Update Release, and the last pre-planned one to the flight dynamics
  model, as it reached to its final phase.
• Flight dynamics modeltuneup - final phase:
  • Rotax 912 engine and propeller simulation overhauled: Idle, Max static RPM,
    RPM changes due to airspeed, engine behavior when cut-off, reduction
    gearbox working very good now.
  • Total performance of the EuroFOX is now tuned to its final phase; aircraft
    handling characteristics is now solid in all flight regimes.
• Systems:
  • Fuel, stater, choke systems tuneup.
• 3D Modeling additions:
  • Wing fuel tanks Fuel caps (above both wings).
  • Pitot tube (under the right wing).
  • Mass balances for the flaps (tubes that are sticking out in front of each flap).

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XP11/10 - v3.0 (20th Feb 2017):

• Flight dynamics modeltuneup:
  • Important note: The VSKYLABS EuroFOX is now setup with a higher
    definition flight dynamics model. Many aspects were deeply analysed and
    modified. This phase (v003) is "experimental" right now, as flight testing
    proceed. If everything will prove to be solid and stable, it will be the "mature"
    flight dynamics model of the Tricycle EuroFOX.
  • Flare technique of keeping the nose high, without extreme pitch trim up, and
    touchdown at approximately 45 mph (with the nose slightly up) is now
    possible. It is still recommended to get stable in a final with a trimmed
    aircraft as a preparation for landing.
  • Stall characteristics of the aircraft might become more violent, if
    executed/occurred in extreme maneuvering. The aircraft is now less safe
    than the one in the previous versions, and like the real thing, you have to
    watch out from tight maneuvers when flying slow and un-coordinated.
• Electrical System:
  • X-Plane 11 version: Electrical system is now fixed, Battery/Magneto power is
    now working as it should be (X-Plane 11 has a slightly different electric
    system core from that of X-Plane 10).
  • Flaps and Trim are not electric (!) and can be operated with dead Battery and
    engine.
• Pilot functionality:
  • Throttle operation: The throttle can now be operated with the mouse; press
    and hold the mouse button while on the throttle lever and set the mouse
    forward and backwards to adjust power.
  • Flaps operation: The Flaps can now be operated with the mouse; press and
    hold the mouse button while on the Flaps lever. If you "throw it" up or down,
    the flaps will go all the way to it's limits (up/maximum down). You don't have
    to wait, just"throw"it up/down). For fine and gradual operation of the flaps,
    press and hold the mouse button, and slowly move it up or down, to set it in a
    desired position.
• Cockpit environment:
  • Radio, IFF panels and buttons are now having a photo-real, high resolution
    textures.

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XP11/10 - v2.0 (20th Feb 2017):

• Flight dynamics modeltuneup:
  • 'Stuck on unpaved terrain' fixed.
  • Engine static RPM now exceeds ~4,900-5,000 RPM.
  • Propeller and engine models tuned one step forward for accurate
    performance at a wider flying speed range (from static to high-speed flight).
  • CG, drag and controls fine tuned for more docile low-speed behavior (don't
    forget to operate the pitch trim during flight).
• Cockpit environment:
  • A new set of high resolution 3D flight instrument gauges were
    implemented. New high resolution 3D Altimeter gauge with easy to set
    barometer setting knob (click-and-drag).
  • Flight instrument gauges glass 'dirt effect' was changed to a more clearer,
    reflective glass. The GPS flat screen is still dirty as an artistic choice ;)
  • Garmin 530 GPS textures replaced to a photo-real textures.
  • GPS operation LED indicator was implemented into the GPS (use the Avionic
    switch to turn on/off).
  • Front panel set to high-resolution textures, with crisp cockpit placards.
• 3D modeling:
  • Interior cabin textures fine tuned all around the cabin.