Announced five years ago, A2A Simulations have finally launched their long awaited twin engine Aerostar light transport aircraft for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024. Let’s have a look at the new aircraft release and what early access means for A2A aircraft.
Ready for flight
It’s been a long road for A2A Simulations and their Aerostar 600 project. I first reported on the aircraft’s announced development back in July of 2020. The company has been busy with various projects but this one has finally come together and they are ready for the public to start flying the aircraft.
The real world Aerostar 600 was first produced as the Ted Smith Aerostar before later being bought up by Piper Aircraft Corporation. The twin engine, Lycoming IO-540-G1B5 powered, sleek lines and aerodynamics make the aircraft relatively fast with a 266 knot maximum speed and a 210 knot cruise. A quick moving aircraft to be sure.
The simulated version sports A2A’s Acu-Sim 2.0 aerodynamics system with physics based flight dynamics (independent of MSFS). It also has a per-cylinder engine simulation for the two engines that they say simulates fuel injection, ignition and wear. The same story can be found with custom simulations of the oil, starter, autopilot, and various other systems with high levels of fidelity.
The aircraft makes use of MSFS 2024 features with interactive walkaround and various LOD and performance features. It has its own app within the MSFS 2024 EFB, persistence features simulate wear and tear, and an graphical analyzer gives detailed insight into engine operation.
Early access and pricing
A2A have released the aircraft into an early access period. A lot of folks are understandably concerned about the ramifications of an early access period. To answer that, Lewis from A2A has put out the following statement:
Early Access gives you the opportunity to start flying the Accu-Sim Aerostar before its full release. At A2A Simulations, our Early Access program is a little different from what you might expect, this is not a rough, unfinished product. The Aerostar is already in a very advanced stage of development (late beta), with the majority of systems and features complete. Only final refinements and polish remain.
Later on in the statement he also says the following:
Unlike many typical Early Access programs, ours is expected to be short and focused, with a clear path to the final version. We’re excited to have you join us as we complete this final phase together.
So you can wait or jump in now depending on your preference.
The aircraft is $49.99 USD and available from the A2A Simulations webstore. The aircraft is only available for MSFS 2024.
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