AviationLads and LAND3 Simulations have announced Cockpit2Ground (C2G), a new utility for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 designed to make communication between the cockpit and GSX ground crew considerably more dynamic.
Rather than simply replacing the existing GSX voice files with new recordings, Cockpit2Ground actively monitors the simulator, aircraft and flight plan. The result is communication that changes depending on what you are actually doing during the turnaround and pushback.
More than 180 voices will be included, complete with regional accents. Alongside English, fully localised German, French, Dutch, Italian, Spanish, Polish and Turkish language packs are planned. Location and airline information from SimBrief can also influence what you hear. An Air France departure from Paris could use French, for example, whilst a Lufthansa crew at the same airport could communicate in English.
Cockpit2Ground closely ties the conversation into the aircraft. Switching off external power can prompt the cockpit to request the GPU be disconnected, with Cockpit2Ground then actually triggering the relevant GSX operation. It can also recognise whether a towbar or towbarless tug is being used and adapt the pushback communication accordingly.
Engine starts form another big part of the experience. Aircraft-specific profiles determine the appropriate start sequence, whilst C2G monitors live engine parameters and keeps the ground crew connected until a successful start has been confirmed. Weather can influence procedures too, with heavy rain or slippery conditions potentially delaying engine start until later in the pushback.
SimBrief integration adds further context, including the airline, departure airport and destination. Time of day, weather and location can then be combined with that information to vary greetings, sign-offs and other parts of the conversation. C2G will even verbally confirm the actual off-block time during pushback.
The system also extends beyond a standard departure. Dedicated de-icing and anti-icing procedures are included, whilst communication resumes after landing once the aircraft has arrived at the gate and is being secured.
A standalone application will allow users to configure voices, languages, radio effects and background ambience, as well as view a live transcript of the conversation. On supported aircraft, the cockpit’s INT/intercom control can also be used to adjust the volume of the ground crew.
It’s that interaction with the simulator that appears to be the main idea behind Cockpit2Ground. Instead of simply playing the next audio clip, C2G is designed to follow the operation and have the conversation respond accordingly.
Cockpit2Ground is being developed for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 and will require FSDreamTeam’s GSX to function. It will be available exclusively through Contrail. It will retail for 14.99 (plus local VAT) when it is released.
You can view the product page now and get notified when it’s released.
