SimWorks Studios long in development GA-8 Airvan is now ready to take to the virtual skies with official release on the Microsoft Flight Simulator Marketplace. Let’s have a look and see what is available now and what the developer is planning over the short term with the aircraft.

Ready for launch

The GA-8 Airvan is an Australian-made utility aircraft first developed in 2000 and having enjoyed some success over the course of a 20-year production run. The virtual version of the airplane has been developed by well known aircraft developer SimWorks Studios who have become well known for their Van’s RV series of aircraft (including the RV-8, 10 and 14) as well as the Kodiak 100 and PC-12. Now they are taking on the Airvan.

The Airvan features cargo and passenger versions, cargo pod option, authentic flight model and sounds are recorded off of the real airplane. The aircraft marks the launch of the company’s tablet interface which includes checklists, aircraft information, payload management and more. The aircraft includes dirt, mud, and wear persistence as features.

The base version of the aircraft is $29.99 USD on the MSFS Marketplace.

The Systems Pulse add-on gives the aircraft an added layer of depth with engine and systems management and reliability features that include random and triggered failures. It also includes a persistence system which can show wear and tear over the course of a multitude of flights. The add-on is $17.49 USD also on the Marketplace.

The company plans to release the aircraft via their website in a few weeks. They also plan for a MSFS 2024 native release of the product. Those who purchase the 2020 version will be able to update to the 2024 version for free.

Learn more about SimWorks Studios on their website and through their Facebook page.