In a surprise announcement, Laminar Research has released the beta version of their C-Check update, better known as X-Plane 12.4.0 Beta. The stated goal of the beta is to lay the groundwork for  X-Plane’s future. 

Laminar Research has accomplished this by replacing core elements of the simulator and improving aircraft systems. The default A330 has been reworked to a "payware level", now, for example, allowing for realistic cold and dark starts.

It also gives you the tools needed to conduct proper oceanic and long-haul flights. This includes a third MCDU for Airline Operational Communications. 

The autopilot system has also been improved, making for smoother turns, better flight plan tracking, and more reliable coupled approaches. Finally, emergencies can now be simulated.

On the general aviation side, X-Plane’s default X430 and X530 now have working terrain, traffic, and weather pages, while the X1000 now features a dedicated page showing ETE/ETA. 

For lovers of custom scenery, the team has included a rendition of Bilbao Airport (LEBB) in Spain.

Other improvements in the beta include native support for the Tobii Eye Tracker 5 on Windows, multi-threaded scenery processing, virtual reality improvements, ATC improvements, and more!

You can find the full release notes here. 

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