Developer FlightSim Studio has kept busy adding new functionality to their Embraer E-Jets family lineup for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020. The latest update brings the family of regional jets to version 0.9.34, and, according to FlightSim Studio, “we’ve packed some new features into this update.” The changelog for these new features includes improvements to the hydraulic system simulation, FADEC, throttle behavior, ground steering, and more as detailed below.
Hydraulic System Simulation: Version 0.9.34 brings significant improvements to the E-Jets’ three-circuit hydraulic system, with each circuit now powered individually by one of the engines or an electric pump. This matches the real aircraft, and pilots will need to ensure sufficient pressure in each circuit for proper functioning. The Hydraulic and Flight Control Pages on the MFD have also been updated to display the new functionality.
FADEC: The engine FADEC Simulation has been updated to include reverse thrust operations, enhance the dynamic feel of thrust reversers, and fix bugs in engine parameters.
PBIT: The E-Jets family now realistically performs a three-minute Electrical and Hydraulic Power-Up Built-in Test (PBIT), displaying EICAS messages on the appropriate MFD pages. The process can also be manually started if needed.
Autothrottle (A/T) Disconnect: The autothrottle disconnect logic has been updated to mirror real-world operation, displaying a green or amber AT warning after normal and non-normal disconnects, respectively. This state persists until a second push on the A/T glareshield or throttle disconnect switches occurs.
Taxi Behavior: FlightSim Studio reports that taxi behavior has been improved to be more realistic, requiring only 40-45% N1 on a single engine to initiate movement even when near maximum ramp weight (MWR) and idle thrust to maintain a reasonable taxi speed.
GSX Automation: Automation of ground services through GSX has been simplified to make boarding, deboarding, and pushback easier. However, FlightSim Studio cautions that due to their custom Weight & Balance system, aircraft loading should only be conducted via the EFB. A separate automation guide has been published detailing the process.
Landing Distance Calculator: The user community requested a landing distance calculator for all variants and FlightSim Studio has provided a standalone solution. Originally planned for inclusion in the EFB, the developer reported that due to UI work and focus on MCDU, autopilot, and custom LNAV/VNAV, a standalone application has been developed instead. This standalone app calculates landing distance based on real performance data and closely matches the simulator’s actual performance. More information about the standalone landing distance calculator can be found here.
Lastly, in the announcement, FlightSim Studio indicated that the adaptation of the E-Jets Family for MSFS 2024 is progressing well and they intend to provide a free compatibility update by the end of the year.
If you don’t yet own any of the FlightSim Studio E-Jet Family, you can purchase them from Contrail using the links below.
E-Jets 190/195 Freighter for £17.77.
Version 0.9.34 Changelog
Bug Fixes:
- 974 – Incorrect flight control synoptic page details are now fixed
- 2403 – Fixed missing stick shaker sounds
- 2272 – Fixed A/T choppy animation
- 2411 – Fixed doors status on MFD not sync with EFB
- 2412 – Fixed freighter doors status on MFD not sync with EFB
- 2404 – Fixed GPWS “Too Low Flaps” stuck after Takeoff
- 2401 – ILS below GS incorrect aural warning fixed
- 2402 – ILS incorrect readout/tracking on certain airports fixed
- 1829 – Fixed turning radius calculation
- 2255 – Hydraulic PBIT logic fixed
- 2282 – Fixed PBIT timers update logic
- 2214 – Fixed parking brake hydraulic logic
- 2408 – Engine reverser cowling animation updated
- 2244 – Throttle position cyan line behavior updated
- 2416 – Reverser sounds missing now fixed
- 2404 – Fixed too low flaps arm mode aural logic
- 2420 – Fixed gear warning logic on landing
- 2405 – E170: Delta livery missing sounds fixed
- 2394 – E19x: Aileron Droop/Hydraulic system logic updated
- 2431 – E19xF: Fixed EFB control for main cargo door
- 2427 – E19xF: Main cargo doors opening logic fixed
Improvements:
- 681 – Reverser thrust target improved
- 715 – Engine thrust behavior for Taxi operation improved
- 2024 – Reverser N1 thrust behavior improved
- 2178 – Reverser logic now related to hydraulic pressure
- 1477 – Tow lights now added
- 2407 – REV indication on EICAS updated
- 2398 – Hydraulic System Improved
- 2415 – GPWS mode 1 thresholds on Step Approach improved
- 2432 – Improved Recirculation fans sound logic
- 2433 – Improved sound sample and adjusted some logic
- 2434 – Improved engine sounds
- 2179 – Cockpit Door control logic improved
- 2147 – Added throttle aural alarm to current A/T disarm logic
- 2429 – volume levels improved, added bottom border for ground roll hit
Features:
- 2354 – GSX integration introduced
- 2429 – Added runway lights ground rumble