Black Square has dropped a fresh development update, showcasing progress on their upcoming Baron Professional, Bonanza Professional, and Starship for Microsoft Flight Simulator. They also then touch on Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 development for their existing fleet of planes.
Both aircraft are set to deliver three distinct variants, complete with custom exterior models, advanced systems, and upgraded interior materials. These will feature avionics options, custom sounds from Boris Audio Works, and the same level of system depth seen in Black Square’s Duke series.
Bonanza Professional Variants:
- A36 (Normally aspirated, 2000s model)
- A36TC (Turbo-normalized aftermarket variant)
- A36TP (PT6A-powered turboprop conversion)
Baron Professional Variants:
- B58 (Standard normally aspirated model)
- 58TC (1984 turbocharged variant)
- 58P (1985 pressurized version – the rare “P-Baron”)
Expect overhauled visuals, expanded system depth, and enhanced immersion, including an external power cart, propane pre-heater, and improved instrument physics and gyroscope simulation. System complexity has nearly doubled from the original releases, with updated manuals adding about 100 extra pages to cover the new features.
The Baron 58P is also getting unique cockpit and cabin detailing to accurately reflect the pressurized Baron experience. Additionally, Black Square has refreshed the GTNxi 750/650 bezels in their Duke and TBM 850, with updates rolling out soon.
Development of the Beechcraft Starship is moving smoothly, now benefiting from MSFS 2024’s raytraced shadows and updated materials. Black Square has also tackled a major MSFS 2024 bug that could have delayed the project, thanks to collaboration with Matt Nischan and the Working Title team.
The Starship’s sound set is still awaiting recordings from the real aircraft, but otherwise, things are progressing well. Expect a release before Flight Sim Expo in June 2025, where Just Flight will showcase the aircraft.
MSFS 2024 Compatibility
Black Square is working to ensure full MSFS 2024 compatibility for its aircraft. While the Steam Gauge Overhaul series won’t make the transition, other aircraft are performing well in the new sim. Future updates will also introduce interactive exterior elements, like pitot covers, doors, and chocks, adding more realism to pre-flight procedures.
