General Aviation developer A2A Simulations has released an early access version of its Piper Aerostar 600 for MSFS 2024. The development of the Aerostar, as we’ve reported on, has been something that A2A have been really transparent about, with delays causing the release to have taken a bit longer than initially anticipated. Appetite has proven to be strong, though, and when, last month, A2A announced that an early access release was due in July, the reception from the community was understandably positive.
The Piper Aerostar 600 project was initially being worked on starting in 2020, using a reference aircraft owned by A2A Simulations. A setback came when that aircraft suffered a wheels-up landing in 2021, the Aerostar project was then put on hold to allow them to work on the A2A Comanche 250, whilst the reference aircraft was made serviceable again.
This will be A2A’s first fully native aircraft built for MSFS 2024, and as such, they have taken advantage of all of the features that the platform gives them. This includes performance enhancements and visuals, as well as high-fidelity systems modelling.
State of the project
Although released as an ‘early access’, A2A are keen to point out that it’s in “late beta” and the developers say “most of the systems and features are already in place”. Only a few areas are still being “polished”, which should help those who are less keen to adopt aircraft that might be less finished.
The A2A Aerostar is designed to be a flagship product for both A2A and their Accu-Sim 2.0 technology, which raises the expectation for that level of “polish”.
Accu-Sim 2.0 Physics Engine
The Aerostar 600 features A2A’s signature physics engine, which they promise will ensure that this release flies as accurately as the sim will allow. “Our physics engine does a great job…The Accu-Sim 2.0 technology promises enhanced realism in all areas of operation”. Throughout the early access period, A2A has said that feedback will be taken seriously, and the early adopters are encouraged to provide as much feedback as possible on all aspects of the Aerostar, including the Flight Dynamic Model, via the A2A forum.
In addition to the Accu-Sim system, the Lycoming IO-540-G1B5 engines are modelled with a high level of fidelity, including fuel injection, ignition and overall wear. This extends to the hydraulic and electrical systems as well, to a level the developer says is “unprecedented”.
Within the cockpit, users can find an EFB-style tablet which allows full control over payload, visibility of C of G in real time, plus configuration, maintenance and systems monitoring.
Externally, a fully interactive walkaround features inspection of moving parts, failure and wear simulations and weathering of textures.
The Accu-Sim Piper Aerostar 600 early access is now available from the A2A store here, for MSFS 2024 only, and is priced at $49.99 USD.
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