Today, the developers of FLAi Model Matching, providing us with model matching for Prepar3D and FSX, have stated, through their website, that they’re discontinuing their development and further support of the product.
The FLAi models can no longer be downloaded through their website. In a rather long statement, the developer speaks about one reason why this had to happen. The main reason was that a group of painters, called Alpha India Group, revoked FLAi’s permission to use their liveries. Together, this group made about 90% of the liveries available in the package.
It was said in the statement, that the reason the group has revoked permissions to use their products is that a separate group was planning on using FLAi in a new project and the Alpha India Group painters considered that as a conduit towards using their work without permission although it was mentioned by the other group, that the work from the painters will not be necessary for the new project.
The group of painters sent FLAi a counter offer making it clear, that the only way to continue distribution of FLAi Model Matching would be possible through their own installer. It was further said on that note:
After discussion with them, we decided that although this method might be possible, the result wouldn’t meet the standards our users have come to expect, and was likely to take a significant development and support effort.
FLAi – Website
Followed by:
Ultimately, it’s been made clear that a version of FLAi that includes these painters’ work will never be permitted to go back online unless it is delivered exclusively through their own installer.
FLAi – Website
VATSIM made a statement on this subject a few hours later as many Prepar3D/FSX users used FLAi Model Matching while flying on the network. It was said in the statement from VATSIM’s Board of Governors, that they have reached out to representatives of Alpha India Group and former FLAi team members to find a resolution that will allow Prepar3D/FSX users to use their models.
It is important to keep in mind, that this only means, that the model matching will no longer be available to be downloaded through the FLAi website. Existing users of the models will still be able to continue to use them.
