VSKYLABS Aerospace Simulations, well-known for introducing unique niche aircraft to the X-Plane flight simulator, has recently launched the release of their Robinson R44 Raven II project. This release follows VSKYLABS' previous introduction of the iconic SR-71, a supersonic spy plane from the Cold War era. Showing an continuing commitment to delivering iconic aircraft, the VSKYLABS team has updated the R44 in a significant release, aligning it with compatibility for the latest version of Laminar Research's  X-Plane 12.0.08, complete with refined flight dynamics and more.R44, a four-seat rotor-wing aircraft made by Robinson Aircraft in Torrance, California, evolved from earlier models like the R22, boasting a larger cabin and improved performance. With over 5,000 deliveries, it's one of the best-selling GA helicopters, finding use in various applications from sightseeing to government operations.

Over the past several weeks, the team has diligently worked on various aspects of the update. Their primary focus has encompassed deep-tuning the drive train simulation, enhancing aircraft performance and handling qualities, and improving auto rotation and landing skid dynamics, all while enhancing engine power gradient accuracies. This substantial update also introduces graphical improvements, including an all-encompassing PBR setup to align with X-Plane 12's rendering engine. Additional default liveries were also added to the package for more variety. Furthermore, the update addresses sound by converting FMOD sound packs to v2.0x and introducing physics-based blade angle slap sounds.

This update is available to existing customers of the VSKYLAB R44 package through the auto-updater. VSKYLABS recommends downloading the store build package to "bridge the gap between the user-end progressive version and the base build version." You can access the complete update log and purchase the Robinson Raven on the VSKYLABS website at www.vskylabs.com. The project is also accessible via the x-plane.org store website.

As usual, stay tuned to Threshold for more flight simulation news and updates!