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CowanSim Previews R22 Overhaul for MSFS 2024

Threshold1w ago

Quick summary· AI-generated

CowanSim is rebuilding the Robinson R22 from the ground up for MSFS 2024, leveraging native features including a new ground-handling system with support wheels and tether movement, expanded preflight inspection with removable fuel caps and interactive components, reworked flight model using 2024 technology, and mission compatibility. The developer plans to apply similar overhauls to the R66, Hughes 500E, and remaining CowanSim helicopters after the R22 launches, though no release date has been announced yet.

Excerpt from Threshold

Cowan Simulation (CowanSim) has shared a new development update of the upcoming native Robinson R22 for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024. It previews improvements to the flight model, ground handling and landing, preflight inspections, and more.

The R22 is already available for MSFS 2024 as a 2020 conversion, but, as developer Josh Cowan stated, the project is being rebuilt to take advantage of MSFS 2024’s capabilities. The update will introduce new features associated with 2024’s Avatar Mode, new ground-handling mechanics, and more.

GSE, Preflight Inspections

The updated R22 will feature a new ground-handling system that lets you move the helicopter without starting the engine. This will be done by attaching small support wheels, lifting the helicopter with a tether, and then using the joystick, cyclic controls, or rudder pedals to control movement.

Alternatively, you can walk behind the aircraft in 2024 Avatar mode, grab the rear stabiliser with your mouse, then push, pull, and steer directly.

Preflight inspection features are also being expanded, including a more detailed rear compartment with functional controls and interactive components. Both the main and auxiliary fuel tanks will have removable fuel caps, allowing you to refuel them individually.

Several new pieces of ground equipment have been modelled, including a bubble canopy cover, main rotor blade covers, tie-down equipment and a pitot tube cover. CowanSim hopes to make ground operations a bigger part of the R22 experience by adding these features.

2024 Conversion Process

CowanSim is also revising many parts of the simulation, including a reworked flight model (using 2024’s newer tech), updated aircraft systems, improved artwork, and more.

The R22 will also support MSFS 2024 missions, in which you can now participate in compatible activities and scenarios.

Other CowanSim Helicopters

The R22 is the first of many CowanSim add-ons being rebuilt to meet MSFS 2024 standards. Once the R22 is completed, the Robinson R66 will be next, followed by the Hughes 500E, and eventually the remaining CowanSim aircraft.

Each helicopter is expected to receive similar improvements, including revised flight models, systems, and modelling, as well as interactive walkaround features and mission compatibility.

No release date has been provided for the R22 or subsequent aircraft, although CowanSim expects development to speed up once the new R22 is released. More development posts will follow.