Following a short delay, Microsoft has now released the Junkers JU-52 for Microsoft Flight Simulator. The first of many Local Legends published by Microsoft is the iconic German aircraft. The transport aircraft was first developed in the 1930s and saw numerous countries take delivery of the 17-seat airliner.
The Junker JU-52 was flown by 12 airlines and was to carry both passengers and freight. As time went on, the aircraft saw a large role in the military, deploying troops and cargo during the Second World War. It was also briefly used as a medium bomber. However, it is today maintained for aviation displays and aerial sightseeing. Jorg Neumann, Head of Microsoft Flight Simulator, said the team has worked with pilots and organisations that work to keep the aircraft type maintained at various heritage sites and museums in order to create the plane for the simulator.
The aircraft was originally announced during Gamescom 2021. As Jorg said in our exclusive interview, “this is the beginning of a series of classic planes. The mental model I have in mind for these local legends is that these aircraft are pre-1950s. When we go into a region [for World Updates], we’ll see what’s famous here and what means something to people.”
You can pick up the Junkers JU-52 now from the in-sim Marketplace for $14.99 USD.
