After releasing their rendition of the 727 for Microsoft Flight Simulator just over a year ago, FlightSim Studio shared new previews of its forthcoming Super27 Expansion Pack. Beyond new engines, the addon package for the base 727 will come with a host of cockpit and flight model improvements for both freighter and passenger variants.
The development update began with a preview screenshot of the new TCAS system, which is built into the Super27s VSI. Pilots will also be able to add the new TCAS-equipped VSI and transponder into the base 727, provided they purchase the Super27 expansion. You can view the preview in the photo gallery at the bottom of this article.
A new auto-spoiler system was also showcased with a preview (included below). Pilots will now be able to arm spoilers before landing and have them automatically deploy. For fans of old-school navigation, FSS previewed a new dual-DME system coming to the Super27. This will allow pilots to intercept waypoints that exist at the intersection of two VOR radials.
Super27 EFIS Avionics Upgrade Previews
Previews of the new EFIS avionics system coming to the Super27 were the highlight of this development update. FlightSim Studio modelled the Rockwell Collins EFIS-86C system, which replaces the classic attitude indicator and horizontal situation indicator. A new autopilot and dual GNS-XLS flight management system tie the package together.
The EADI replaces the attitude indicator with a glass display that features a digital attitude indicator, autopilot mode annunciator, airspeed indicator, and LOC/GS/VNAV deviation alerts.
Meanwhile, the EHSI provides pilots with the option to select from either a traditional HSI display or a map view featuring waypoints, navaids, and an active route display. The EHSI is controlled via a Display Control Panel and Course Heading Panel. This added functionality means the Super27 expansion brings full LNAV and VNAV capability to the 727.
The last major component covered in the update was the new Collins APS-85 Autopilot, which is available only in combination with the EFIS and GNS-XLS FMS. Located on the pedestal below the throttles, it provides levers for autopilot and yaw damper engagement along with a pitch wheel and turn knob. The turn knob provides pilots with the ability to take control of the aileron channel in roll hold mode, while the pitch wheel provides immediate control over the vertical profile. Depending on the autopilot mode, the pitch wheel will command changes to vertical speed, IAS, or Mach commands.
FlightSim Studio shared a preview image of the glareshield-mounted mode control panel for the autopilot, where pilots will be able to select what type of lateral or vertical guidance they desire.
The developer also shared some insight into the capabilities of the new autopilot. Laterally, the system will be capable of everything from heading holds to full CAT II approach tracking. Vertically, the system will be capable of following VNAV profiles, IAS/MACH climbs, vertical speed holds, climb/descend to armed altitudes, and go-around guidance.
The rest of the preview images in the development update are included below. No timeline for the release of the Super27 Expansion was provided as of the publication of this article.
