X-Crafts took to their website to announce the release of their rendition of the Embraer E-Jets family’s 2.0 version in early access for X-Plane 11/12. The developer also announced the Lineage 1000, the business jet variant of the E-Jets, has also been released as part of the early access update. A lot has been featured in the latest update so let’s dive right in.
About the E-Jets and the Lineage 1000
The Embraer E-Jet family is a series of four-abreast, short-to-medium range, twin-engined jet airliners designed and produced by Brazilian aerospace manufacturer Embraer. It was designed to complement their earlier ERJ family of jets which were their first jet-powered aircraft. It was unveiled in 1997 and first flew in 2002, entering production the same year. The first E170 was delivered to LOT Polish Airlines in 2004, while the larger E190 and E195 entered service the same year. The stretched version of the E175 was introduced in 2006.
The E190 was then given a business jet variant in 2006, named the Lineage 1000. It was advertised as an ultra-large business jet by its manufacturer and has a range of 8,500 kilometers. It is operated by several private jet charter companies such as Al Jaber Aviation, AirX Charter, and Air Hamburg along with military operators in Brazil and Pakistan.
What’s new in 2.0?
One of the major changes in update 2.0 is X-Crafts fixing X-Plane 12’s dark cockpit lighting issue. The developer has introduced an “unprecedented” Ambient Lighting Modifier which contains three options: default XP lighting, dynamic lighting which adjusts as you move around, and natural which is based on the aircraft’s exterior making the interior much brighter.
The developers have also added a new noise-canceling headset effect; headsets used by real-world pilots to block out engine noise have been simulated in the simulator addon for a realistic sound experience. The autopilot gets a new trick up its sleeve in the way of Glidepath (GP) Autopilot mode. It provides vertical guidance even during an RNAV approach just like an ILS glideslope would.
The aircraft now also features improved strobe and NAV light behavior just like the real-world aircraft and casts a realistic glow on the ground. The E175’s extended winglets also now get long strobes. The EFB has also received minor tweaks with many UI/UX improvements and a new settings page.
The E-Jets also now feature a new and custom fuel system and the Lineage 1000’s system accurately transfers fuel from aux tanks into the main tank automatically during cruise. The auto brake system has also been revamped and the more realistic braking feel should be more noticeable according to the developers. The auto brake also gives out an aural warning when it disengages automatically.
Key features of the Lineage 1000
The X-Crafts Linage 1000 features intricate airstairs for easy passenger access at smaller airports, a custom-crafted interior, 50+ bespoke materials, five unique zones including a bedroom, and ultra-high-resolution textures. Further features include four distinct liveries, fully customizable interior lighting, five working cabin TVs, an interactive cabin with animated blinds, tables, doors, and more, and all features of the E-Jets included such as the custom FMS, full autopilot automation, and the Steep Approach System for airports like London City.
Closing Notes
The 2.0 version of the E-Jets is now available in early access and can be installed via their Skunkcrafts Update 3.2. The update is free for all existing users and you only need to enroll in their open beta program. The prices for the package will soon increase from USD 135 to USD 150 upon the release of the new version. To get the Lineage 1000, you need to already own the entire product line to gain early access. It will however be available as a standalone product once the 2.0 update is released.
The full release of the 2.0 update is expected to come out on March 1st, 2025. The latest update features many new exciting features and improvements along with a new aircraft. The E-Jets can be purchased or upgraded from the X-Crafts website. The starter pack contains one E-Jet for USD 68 and can be upgraded to the full package for another USD 68. The entire family pack for all four E-Jets and the upcoming Lineage 1000 (currently available as EA) can be purchased for USD 135.
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