X Plane 12, Basic Overview and Flight

[@SuperTexasBlues]

got my 1st sim this year to help with my PPL training... your vid was 1st rate with info and set-ups thanks for taking the time!

[@NDBAVIATION]

Good luck with the PPL training!

[@dfa2691]

I am trying to go back to civil aviation sims after many years and was torn between what sim to buy. Your video made a huge impact on my decision: X-plane 12. You gave a lot of insights. Touched a number of nice points along a fantastic commentary. I also found your style also entertaining. Thanks!

[@NDBAVIATION]

Thank you!

[@personagoldy6003]

I use x-plane 12 for the long hauls. En msfs for the short flights. And DCS for the combat. We are truly in the golden era of flight simming. Choice is always good. Why not have them all 😎

[@NDBAVIATION]

Couldn't agree more, having options is amazing! At some point I want to get back into DCS.

[@jasonshimkus6139]

Thank you for this video! I purchased 12 a few days ago and was overwhelmed with all the different settings. So you vid really cleared that up so I know what I'm changing. I'm not a pilot yet. My plan is to start training about this time next year. Using this sim with a mouse and keyboard totally sucks! I order a saitech yoke and bravo so I'm waiting for that to come in. Ive gotten above 90% takeoff and landing with the mouse and keyboard, but it's a real pita! I'm hoping the saitech peripherals make it a more enjoyable experience! You deff have a new subscriber sir!

[@NDBAVIATION]

Thank you!

[@tjohara947]

Thanks for your video. No need to apologize for "long" because we learn some good stuff. I would rather have clarity than brevity. So continue your videos and make them as long as you think necessary to teach what you wish to teach. Thanks. I would like to see some more specifics about x-plane 12 setup (specific processes) to do the nice things that I heard about x-plane 12. Thanks I don't use MS sim but a specific comparative video would be great as I heard some good reports about the new version. For real pilot training, it seems that x-plane 12 is a far better solution. Again, Thank you!

[@NDBAVIATION]

Thank you for the kind words! New videos are in the works, but awaiting a few updates before posting.

[@martygenska8117]

I've had XPlane 12 for just over two months now, I downloaded it after I built my PC and could not get MSFS 2020 in download (that issue was using WiFi instead of Ethernet and was corrected). Anyway, I'm finding I prefer XPlane. For me, configuration of my Honeycomb Yoke and Throttle Body was super easy. My Turtle Beach rudder pedals also work great. Even my Saitek radio panel was easy to set up. I've added a few plug-ins, for example Pilot Edge and the Honeycomb module to get the lights to work on the throttle body. To me, as a PP, XP is way more realistic. I also like the way the network broadcast works for using Foreflight and the instructor pad. I run three monitors and XP has MSFS 2020 beat hands down for that configuration. My home airport is KHEG and it looks better in XP than MSFS 2020. I did fire up MSFS the other day because I wanted to update to World Update 12 and I admit the visuals are impressive. But, for me, a realistic flight model is more important. Now if I could only find a Beechcraft Musketeer add-on :)

[@NDBAVIATION]

I couldn't agree more about so much of what you have said. Currently I am in the process of assisting a pilot setup a C172 in X-Plane 12 that replicates his real life aircraft. I had him preview both sims and his preference has been X-Plane for almost all of the same reasons. It just works and flows better, most of the time, for real pilots trying to do actual practical things. I wish I could help with the Musketeer, but I searched around and no luck.

[@paulthurston2883]

I'm hanging out for the C23 too.

[@ronholfly]

Thanks for the advice, I have been using X Plane 11 from when it came out and have used MSFS 20 but have always preferred X Plane.

[@edwardwright5464]

Great video. Appreciate the content. I haven't got the x plane 12 yet, Ive been waiting on honest reviews like this one. I have x plane 11 and love to use for practice due that the aircraft handles close to the real aircraft. I just wish they would keep the nav data up to date so the SID'S and STAR'S would be match real world changes. But other than that, it's a great practice format. Thanks again for the videos you put out their. You have a great teaching style. Be safe in your real world flying and blue sky's.

[@NDBAVIATION]

Thank you! There should be updates for the "IFR system" at some point. I would bet that over time that is going to be opened back up for easy user updates.

[@dragoclarke9497]

Navigraph subscription.

[@moleisrich1]

I have all three sims, and keep going back to xplane 11. I know , but damn all my planes orthos and gadgets… too much fun

[@NDBAVIATION]

You are at the same place I was with X 10 to X 11. I had so many add-ons for X 10 that I just wasn't ready to make the switch. I don't think I fully switched to X 11 until version 11.2 or older.

[@ronlang7236]

Thanks so much for your video. I'm a rusty pilot who became Rip Van Winkle during the simulation growth era. From you comments, it seems like X-12 is the software I need to shake off the rust both VFR and IFR. What peripheral equipment did you use? There are so many options from inexpensive to very expensive. Can you refer me to any video that discusses setup options for yoke, throttle, rudders, widescreen monitors, etc.? I assume from watching your video that the two display panels are controlled by mouse clicks.

[@NDBAVIATION]

Sorry for missing your question(s). Are you still in need of suggestions?

[@AllenPortman]

You can still show approach ILS glideslope

[@NDBAVIATION]

yup!

[@morrisdyer9560]

Agree/pilot since 1982. Xplane good for training

[@moleisrich1]

I agree btw, and I’m a real commercial pilot. I hardly ever fire up msfs.

[@ShadowRap-y5l]

Do you play xplane?

[@WyMustIGo]

I agree, MSFS is a GAME, X-Plane is a sim.

[@joaocavalcanti7721]

We have a product in development and in beta or alpha version we will have bugs and things to fix and to improve. FS2020 has 2 years on the road and they still have bugs and things to improve. The developpers depend on recommendations from the community. I believe this is the best way to have a better sim.

[@NDBAVIATION]

I agree. I think X-Plane is a great product and will mature as Laminar continues to do what it has done in the past, listen to the community. X-Plane has grown to be my go to choice for a training product because of this. That isn't to say that Austin has always listened, but he has done a great job of leading the team(s) to where we are today with a great vision.

[@johneshoffnerjr9823]

Thank you for answering. I finally stumbled on the answer and put it in the folder. Is there anywhere that explains the procedure and perhaps how to address install issues. The X-plane helpers keep chuckling saying just push the download button. It seems easy, but only to the experienced. Again, thanks for your return.

[@NDBAVIATION]

What did you purchase? All the third party add-ons have a support thread on their website or even on x-plane.org

[@77flyer]

nice video, can u do one video showing how to setup the honeycomb bravo or alpha, Im so confused with the profiles, they dont provide, only aerosoft but no idea what or how to load them, thanks again!

[@NDBAVIATION]

A new setup video is on the way, It is just a manner of fitting it in between trips.

[@huntxtrm]

Hello form Texas, I am new to Flight Sim.. I am also a new ppl. 160hr. I am going for my ifr and commercial right now, goals soon to CFI and CFII. I have downloaded X PLane 12 to help me with procedures. Is there a way to get the embedded 530/430 to have more real world functionality? It lacks a lot from what is in the aircraft I fly for training? Thanks in advance for any help. Great video, subscribed and following.

[@NDBAVIATION]

To be honest it has been a while since I have utilized the 530/430 combo in X-Plane. I know they are “simulated” but what features are they missing vs what you are doing in the real aircraft?

[@huntxtrm]

I guess what I am getting at, is it is not a direct simulation of the standard 430. You cannot change data fields, some of the procedures are missing, etc. As compared to what is in my training plane. I am shooting for using this as a classroom for my trainer. And possibly once a CFI using it to train students and save them some valuable seat time. Are there plugins that can advance it? Or would I have to invest in a stand alone unit? @@NDBAVIATION

[@moleisrich1]

It always breaks left

[@NDBAVIATION]

Add a little right rudder and change the pressure as needed.

[@chauncyjohnson947]

Dope video can’t wait for more

[@NDBAVIATION]

Thank you!

[@paulthurston2883]

I own both msfs & xplane. I keep coming back to xplane. There is just something about it. Flight modelling, sounds, colour pallet, menu system ?

[@NDBAVIATION]

I find myself returning to X-Plane on a regular basis as well. Mostly for the systems integration and the flight model. MSFS has gotten closer, but i think their implementation of control input curves is what continues to hamstring how the flight model is perceived.

[@tomreppert5697]

Enjoyed the video , currently using X-plane 11, and debating the move to 12, this pushed the needle towards going to 12, however not sure if there is enough of an improvement to go to 12, One of the biggest problem is the general lack landscape for cities and such to use for navigation, and what would be a slam dunk would be an improvement there but from everything I seen so far, In videos and on the trial version(which is extremely limited) not seeing anything to counter that impression.

[@NDBAVIATION]

You have the correct impression. If VFR navigation is a must, there is not a considerable upgrade to warrant a move to X-12 just yet. As the 3rd party developers begin to make more products and incorporate the seasonal system of X-12, I imagine things will change.

[@dragoclarke9497]

Just bought 12 a few weeks ago, wasn't sure at first but now appreciate the differences. Visuals are better than 11, seasons, clouds, vegetation and lighting are a worthwhile improvement, worth $60.

[@woodsail40]

IT WOULD HELP TO INCREASE THE SIZE OF YOUR POINTER SO WE CAN SEE WHAT YOUR CLICKING ON AND MOVE JUST A LITTLE SLOWER FOR US NEW PILOTS. THEN WE ALSO HAVE PEOPLE WHO ARE OLDER AND CAN'T SEE AS WELL. THANKS FOR YOUR HARD WORK.

[@johnvandehey7002]

I agree. I'm new to XP-12, flight sim etc., so it is needed.

[@NDBAVIATION]

I will look into that for future videos!

[@timrick2]

I really like your videos as well and appreciate the time you've put in, but I do agree. Especially considering your're going 'step-by-step' and 'we're' trying to flollow, but that's IS one TINY pointer! With me, even more than that, is that it's impossilbe to see much of what you're referring too because of the large thumbnail pic-in-pic. For example, when in "settings". It could be a quarter of the size and in a corner like many others. It's just such a well intended video, but a bit frustrating at times. Just something to consider. : )

[@zeilstar]

What PC hardware and resolution are you running?

[@NDBAVIATION]

PC Hardware AMD 5900 X Nvidia 1080 GTX 32 GB Ram @ 3600 mghz (stock 3000) Water cooled CPU Kraken X53 AsRock X570 Tai Chi ATX (Full Size Case) Full Size tower for ease of swapping components SATA SSD (for now for X12) MSI 1000 Watt PSU (was testing rtx 4080 and 7900 XTX) Visual Settings 1440p monitor Texture Qual High Ambient Occlusion High Rendering Resolution Ultra Antialiasing 4x MSAA Anisotropic Filtering 8x Cloud Qual High Shadow Qual Max Rendering Distance Max World Object Density Max Vegetation Density Max Draw Parked Aircraft On Enable 3d Vegetation On

[@edwardwright5464]

Last minute comment. I have done stalls in c172's that have a very pronounced wing drop. So I would say this one is pretty darn close. Have a good day

[@KennedyIndependent]

What’s the best one for flight training? What joystick? I just want to learn to fly ultralights and soaring gliders

[@NDBAVIATION]

Sorry for not asking this sooner. Do you have a specific budget?

[@dbvetter7485]

I like X-Plane a lot, it's mature and getting better every year. I've been flying it since 2007 XP8 or 9. I haven't been able to run MSFS2020 without CTD for over a year now. Sure it beautiful but if it doesn't run, it's useless to me. Plus it far behind the Felis products, Rotate MD-11, Toliss A340-600.

[@NDBAVIATION]

Those X-Plane Add-ons are pretty awesome! I am sorry to hear about your MSFS CTD issues. I had an "unsolvable" CTD issue a few months ago. I spent nearly two months troubleshooting it. In the end, I did a "fresh" Win 11 install. I chose the option that retains all files, but deletes all programs with a fresh Win 11 install. Since then I have had no CTD issues.

[@garyruhs9466]

I'm just beginning to try and switch over from fsx to x-plane... do you have a good video for me to get me set up on controls etc and then learning to fly in x-plane 12?

[@NDBAVIATION]

I will see what I can find, but I think laminar has a good video as well. I had plans to make one for X-Plane 12, but my actual flying schedule has gotten in the way. Apologies.

[@livestock9722]

Any thoughts on Redbird sim controls for GA training practice? Pricey, but worth it or overkill?

[@NDBAVIATION]

I’ve never been a huge fan of their controls, but they are relatively solid pieces. If I were in that price range I would look at PFC and other companies similar.

[@johneshoffnerjr9823]

Can you help? I feel a little lost. I cannot see/use my downloaded aircraft in X-plane12. During the download process, I am NOT asked to insert the product serial number. What am i doing wrong? I am new to X-plane.

[@NDBAVIATION]

Did you install them into the X-Plane folder on your PC or Mac? Which add-ons did you purchase?

[@Bassmunchkin1]

Ive only just purchased X Plane yesterday for my Mac to try it out and I have never used a simulator before so I'm a complete newbie, hence I've not got a joystick yet and I'm using the keypad, but I cannot find out how to steer the plane. Can someone please explain how I steer please using the keypad, many thanks

[@NDBAVIATION]

When you say “steer” the plane, is this on the ground or in the air?

[@Bassmunchkin1]

@@NDBAVIATION On the ground and thanks millions for replying 👍 ps I've not even moved yet

[@NDBAVIATION]

@@Bassmunchkin1Do plan to only use the keyboard? The logitech Extreme 3D Pro is a cheap but dependable entry level joystick with a rudder built on.

[@Bassmunchkin1]

Many thanks and much appreciated

[@NDBAVIATION]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/aYXVZmSdj7x3mq8 Here is a video how to sim without a joystick.

[@gepflegtePCSpieleKultur]

Thank you for the introduction Video for XPXII. I was on the fence a bit. After your Video i D/L the Demo and voilà' XP runs much better and smoother on my old potato PC then MSFS. I tried MSFS2020 on Gamepass... but the D/L of 150 GB over the MSFS Launcher Framework is a pain in the ***. (excuse my French). I had lots of problems with my ragtag band of controllers in MSFS and uneven framerates. The Scenery is really a Looker... my Hometown looks stunning... seated on the right side of Vater Rhein (Kayserspeak for the Rhine.) But coming from MSFX Steam Edition, Wings over Flanders Fields, IL-2 Sturmovik Series, DCS World and the original FS Sim 1.0 from 1982... ;-) Graphics is not everything, especially in Simulation Games. (My Opinion.) So Thank you again for your educational Video. Much obliged, and “you’re going to love flying!”.

[@CRSeven1]

Hey bro I have a question i havnt played the video yet but i just bought x plane 12 and i can’t access any airport pls tell me airports to fly for free

[@NDBAVIATION]

It sounds like you may have downloaded it but not activated your purchase. X-Plane remains in “demo” mode until you enter a product key contained in your order. After that the world, and parts of space, are yours.

[@CRSeven1]

@@NDBAVIATION Thanks so much ai was too dumb to download a scenery 😅

[@LadanSoodmand]

I’ve started working with X Plane 12, and am loving it. However, I have a terrible time with the calibration. When I load the same plane I had already calibrated, it seems to reset. What do I need to do to keep it calibrated each time I start X Plane?

[@NDBAVIATION]

When you say calibrated, are you referring to the aircraft loading or the assignments on your yoke, throttle quadrant, and such?

[@LadanSoodmand]

@@NDBAVIATION the assignments I think. Why, is there a difference?

[@NDBAVIATION]

@@LadanSoodmand have you made separate assignment profiles for the yoke/joystick and such? Save the profiles for easy fly and go sessions.

[@LadanSoodmand]

@@NDBAVIATION do you mean for each plane I want to fly? Yes I have.

[@NDBAVIATION]

@@LadanSoodmand I was just trying to better understand the issue and if I had a solution for you. You were saying that every time you fly, your calibrations/settings are off. I just wanted to know which ones.

[@jeromehebert3184]

just bought 12 and now looking for some controls as the mouse is ok but you can't take advantage of all the different aircraft offered . It is MUCH Better than what FS was 30 years ago when I use to fly it lol .. the graphics are amazing and much easier to fly with those graphics and of course the power of the Mac helps.

[@NDBAVIATION]

There are a lot of controls out there for you to choose from. Anything specific you are looking for?

[@jeromehebert3184]

@@NDBAVIATION well i need controls that work with my iMac M1 first off; and want to try ALL the aircraft in X-Plane although I don't think that I would like military craft on an ongoing basis just planes and jets and helicopters.

[@lyianx]

"Old Desktop" quotes a still high end PC with mid range gpu.

[@henrymurray8417]

xplane does not allow negative reviews

[@NDBAVIATION]

Because it is that good?

[@hemzaseghir9475]

Hi! I bought x-plane 12 and I’m unable to connect my honeycomb throttle. Do you know how to fix this issue?

[@NDBAVIATION]

Sorry for replying so late. Are you still experiencing issues?

[@richardmosher8334]

I am flying xplane 12 with Logitech Flight Yoke System and rudder pedals and just added the Bravo Throttle Quadrant. I cannot get the throttle quadrant to work with the system. I downloaded the software and drivers from Honeycomb but I don't know if I should move them into the xplane file. I'm not computer literate and don't understand all there is to know about it. I am not sure even if the throttle quadrant is compatable with the rest of my system. Any help would be appreciated. Thank you.

[@NDBAVIATION]

The throttle quadrant should be compatible. If those other two usb devices are working, the Bravo should as well. Are you using an external usb hub? Are you on a MAC or PC?

[@richardmosher8334]

@@NDBAVIATION My grandson helped me figure out what I was doing wrong and most everything is working now. The mixture, props, and throttles are good and I am working on programming the rest of it. I just get confused with unfamiliar terminology. Thank you for your response. I do appreciate it.

[@koltonk5651]

Anyone running xp12 on a Mac?

[@NDBAVIATION]

I have and have a video about it.

[@sam3d]

Bro my first x-plane was x-plane 4.5

[@NDBAVIATION]

The good old days!

[@hakanr339b]

X-Plane Professional Use is already great, Laminar should have focused on Home Use more then it could have been as close to Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 immersion, clouds sometimes don't look like clouds and clouds rendering is too weak since clouds are visible through clouds with weird blue color and they form too weird shapes, they are low resolution that have pixellations, anti aliasing and Vram management are broken as well. I remember bug reporting few stuffs multiple times yet not fixed... I don't know what Laminar Research is planning but X-Plane 11 is way better than this I'm convinced...

[@NDBAVIATION]

X-Plane 11 is a complete package and "ironed" out. Right now are the growing pains of X12 and the bugs will be fixed over multiple patches. The best option if people want X12, would be a free copy of X11 to use while X12 is slowly updated and fixed.

[@danielebrambilla2290]

@@NDBAVIATION That's exactly the case: those who preordered the game or got it while in beta received a free copy of XP11 as well 🙂

[@DownTheRabbit-Hole]

XP 12 has Cloud maggots when raining! Ha

[@hakanr339b]

Current X-Plane 12 clouds update in 12.06 beta is above expectations, I like them a lot now

[@sam3d]

This game looks very dark

[@DownTheRabbit-Hole]

Using both xp 20 years and mfs 2years. The WT G5000 with 3 x GTC and Air Manager in mfs is why I am no longer using xp. The flight model and GA aircraft still better in xp. More robust and mature. Mfs flight model depends on aircraft. I fly Longitude on Vatsim a lot and really enjoy advanced couple vnav and scenery, rain, clouds etc. WT G5000/3000 could put lr out of biz. LR needs G5000 yesterday. G1000 in xp is mediocre, especially vnav.

[@NDBAVIATION]

I like how MSFS 2020 has matured over the past two years. X12 seems to be improving but still not matching X11 for all of the IFR aspects. X12 may also have issues because I am primarily using the Betas. It is nice to finally an alternative to X-Plane.

[@WyMustIGo]

X-Plane is a sim (the best), MSFS is a "game"

[@NDBAVIATION]

I have a similar feeling but it could be used for basic VFR intro and more, it just does not currently offer a FAA stamp for use in BATDs and AATDs.

[@DownTheRabbit-Hole]

Puddles 12! The linear, mirror like, sky blue reflections in standing water on short final look fake and ridiculous.

[@NDBAVIATION]

The "imagery" is still improving, but lacking compared to MSFS 2020.

[@JVIce-44]

I don't agree with your view on MSFS 2020 simply because I really like it, and I'm not alone, and I find it a lot more pleasant in every way. So, as I see it you don't gain anything by speaking badly about the opposition regardless of whether it's better or worse, it won't earn you any points. I have had X-plane 11 and now the X-plane 12 and I must say I wish I could see the positives about them. They bounce like if the were hanging in a rubber string and I don't believe that is representative for the real world. One thing I really dislike about X-plane is that I can't get the dashboard away from me. Regardless of the difficulty, I will persevere in hope that I'll find some positives. One thing I have a problem with and that is when you suggest purchasing X-Plane for training if you'd like to become a pilot. It has been made perfectly clear that all those simulators are purely for the purpose of entertainment.

[@NDBAVIATION]

Full disclosure, I like MSFS as well. I use it with my kids and for some training aspects from time to time. I even purchased the Fenix A320 for MSFS instead of the offerings for X-Plane. I can see your perspective about the rubber string issue with X-Plane. The way that turbulence is visualized in X-Plane vs MSFS are completely different. The "physics" are realistic but the visual representation is not lifelike. Recently while gathering footage for a video about X-Plane and setting the weather, I was lamenting exactly that and take your description and maybe say it is more like a paint can at a hardware store being mixed. The camera makes the movement visually too aggressive. For the dashboard being too close, have you increased your field of view? I set my field of view to the max I can take and then just zoom in as needed. Personally, I do not use the MSFS quick views, they annoy me. So the proximity of the field of view in X-Plane is just a norm to me at this point. I change it and just zoom as needed. As for the last comment of both being purely for entertainment, I will respectfully disagree with your view. X-Plane has been developed for the purpose of instruction and is currently in use as the main program software for many FAA approved simulators for flight training. Thank you for the comment and I hope that in time you will find enjoyable aspects of X-Plane.

[@craigsanders6925]

I'd disagree, the school where I've done flight training has a certified version of Xplane for the sim. While it isn't going to help with the feel of actually flying the plane, it will help with your basic procedures, visual scan, setting radios, flows, etc.... Think of it as chair flying with the computer. Now when it comes to instrument training it will certainly help you advance with instrument procedures.

[@sam3d]

He just said msfs is a game, that's not bad! Relax man lol

[@daadood100]

for what I can see xplane 12 is not as good in visual as microsoft 2020

[@NDBAVIATION]

X-Plane is not the same when it comes to VFR visuals compared to MSFS. If you are instructing and training, that is where X-Plane shines.

[@DownTheRabbit-Hole]

Very poor performance in XP 12 for 3 monitor guys. Only HD, no 1440 on ultra, TAA, like mfs. XP still using weak older anti-aliasing. Vulcan will never compete with Direct X and DLSS. LR should get busy with CPU bottleneck and code for multi-core. Austin been giving lip service to multi-core for about 10 years now. MFS has issues as well, but I have learned how to bypass arcade stuff.

[@NDBAVIATION]

I was hoping that Vulcan would have incorporated larger cpu improvements, but that is still to be seen. There have been other improvements but there is room for more improvement.

[@business7138]

Msf is the real sim. Xplane is trying to catch up and can't

[@NDBAVIATION]

MSFS has become a good sim. X-Plane is a perfect training platform, it just lacks the visuals that MSFS has.