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Ikarus C42CPublisher: vFlyteAir SimulationsReview Author: Stuart McGregorSuggested Price: $27.95/images/fsc/wbicons/store-buy-now-button.png /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-01.jpgThe AircraftThe aircraft under review in thisarticle is vFlyteAir Simulations Ikarus C42C Ultralight v1.0 releasedearlier this year. The C42C is a single engine, high wing monoplane and has beenaround since the mid-1990s, with more than 1200 aircraft sales beingreported across all variants. According to the literature from thedeveloper, the variant on offer here was modelled on D-MYSF which isactually flown by one of the developers, maximising the hands-ontransfer of real life into the virtual world. /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-24.jpg /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-25.jpg /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-18.jpg /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-19.jpgThe C42C is powered by a 100hp Rotax 912UL engine and has room fortwo crew in a side by side configuration. The even better news is thatthe vFlyteAir model comes in two variants, the basic trainer, and also afull panel model which adds extra instrumentation such as transponder,small coms panel and traffic indicator amongst other things. Nicetouch to get a two for one offer right from the get-go. One other feature Ilove about this aircraft which makes it quite unique in my hangar isthe inclusion of a Ballistic Rescue System (parachute) so ifeverything goes south during a flight you can still make it back toterra firma in one piece, although you may need a good panel beater toget the dents out! None of the other aircraft in my hangar have this,so it was a pleasant surprise to find this feature included and to beable to try something a little different. By the way... it does work,although the ultimate landing is, a little rustic to say theleast. Initial ThoughtsThe C42C may be small in size with only room for two seats, but boydoes it pack a punch. This little guy is loaded with features, and asthis class of aircraft is one of my favorites, I really enjoyed mytime with the C42C. This is a great example of never judge a book byits cover, and I believe the vFlyteAir team have done a fabulous jobat bringing it to X-Plane 11. /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-02.jpg /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-03.jpgI purchased my copy over at the FlightSim.Com Store and in myopinion it is very well priced at $27.95 considering you are getting twodifferent versions of the aircraft for that price. It is a fairlylarge download at a little over 327 MB, so be prepared for a bit of await if your internet speed is a little slow. Installation is so simple, just a case of drop and drag into yourAircraft folder, no security keys required for this one. Thedocumentation provided is very nice and you will find a PilotsOperating Handbook (POH), Manual (in German and English) and aFeatures list provided in the Documents folder. I highly recommendyou take a look at these because they are brimming with usefulinformation. /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-12.jpg /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-13.jpgThe inspiration for this model came from an aircraft one of theteam members is currently studying on. The quality and detail providedis really excellent, which for me just confirms you are dealing with adeveloper who is intent on providing a quality product. It is thelittle things like this that make all the difference to me, and thedocumentation is stuffed full of all sorts of excellent information.It includes technical drawings and data of the aircraft, detailedphotos of the layout and features, advice on hardware requirements,menu options, and lots, lots more. The fact that there are two aircraftversions provided means there is plenty for even the most experiencedsimmer to get their teeth into, and it took me a good couple of hoursto check out both and all the various features on offer. On The GroundThe exterior details are very nicely done, with screw heads, radioantennas, landing gear, control surface details through to the smoothmodern fuselage are just a few examples of why this aircraft is veryeasy on the eye. Another nice feature which can be seen from theoutside of the cabin is the synchronisation of the control stick withthe pilot's arms and head movements. Again, this extra attention todetail and realism makes a big difference and I am always impressedwhen developers go the extra mile to bring their aircraft to life. Youeven have a choice of co-pilot, as you can fly solo or be accompaniedby either male of female colleagues. This can all be controlled fromthe kneeboard menu that can be accessed via the pilot's side doorpocket. From this menu you can adjust elements such as the language(German or English), the units of measure, metric or imperial, weight,fuel loading as well as adjusting things like the pitot tube cover,wheel chocks, internal glass and a few others. /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-04.jpg /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-05.jpgThe stock model comes with a number of different liveries, 14 to beexact, and these cover countries such as the UK, USA, Germany, Franceand Canada. If you wish to create your own livery, over at thevFlyteAir web site, there is a free paint kit for download accordingto the information provided by the developer, although when I looked,I couldn't find it among the others available. At the time of writingthis review I had yet to receive a reply from the developer onthis. The provided liveries can be changed from the main X-Plane menuas normal, or from within the cockpit via the registration plaque inthe center of the instrument panel. This is a nice feature that iflike me, you are prone to forgetting this sort of thing at startup. As you look around the cabin, you will find lots of further detailsin a well modelled interior. Most of the switches, levers, fusebuttons, door catches, latches, roof mounted flap handle, parachuterelease mechanism, throttle and window vents are animated, and thefeel of the cabin is fantastic, plus nice and open, with lots of glasseffects which can be switched off if you so choose. The vFlyteAir teamreally have done their homework here and I can clearly see a largenumber of hours have gone into the C42C to get it to the standard itcurrently is. From what I could tell during my short tests, most ofthe relevant switch and radio features of my Saitek panels (switch, 2xradio, multi) worked with no need for any additional scripts. /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-06.jpg /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-07.jpgAdjusting the throttle, you can hear a nice change in the enginesound, and according to the developer many of the sounds used aretaken from the real aircraft. You will also find a couple of pop outfeatures on the top of the glare shield and these include aninteractive checklist as well as navigational charts. These chartscan be modified by the user to suit their own requirements by manuallyplacing the charts they wish to use in the Custom Avionics folder.This will take a little bit of effort as they have to be sized andnamed correctly, however I am sure it is worth the effort if youreally wish to immerse yourself in this aircraft. A couple of furtherinterior features I personally enjoyed were the INOP labels that canbe placed over various gauges by clicking just below each one, and themoving map and traffic warning system (that works with WT3) that areavailable in the full panel model. I also found that a number of thegauges and panels pop out for easier reading, although they are allpretty clear in situ. For fans of AVITab you won't be disappointed asthat is also integrated into each of the models and can be adjusted tosuit or completely removed if you chose not to use it. The gullwingdoors are a distinctive feature of this aircraft and both the pilotand co-pilot doors can be opened which results in a nice change inengine volume. /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-08.jpg /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-09.jpg /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-20.jpg /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-21.jpgI use 3 x 27" screens and sitting on the runway ready to go in theC42C felt great. My tests flights were in an around BruneiInternational Airport (WBSB) and Sanaga Sanga (RPMN) in thePhilippines at various times of day with clear skies and WT3 doing itsthing in the background. My frame rates were all very good, 35 fps andabove, so all good. Control when taxiing and on the runway with my VKB pedals was goodand accurate, and takeoff with my MaxFlightStick control stick (reallyfor helicopters but works a treat) was also very smooth and easy tocontrol. And up I went. In The AirDuring the climb and descent I found the C42C very responsive to myinput, without being too sensitive, and I easily managed to control myrate of climb/descent, airspeed and direction. Once up in the air andin my cruise, my fps increased to 40 plus over the jungles ofSoutheast Asia, and again the feel of the C42C was excellent. Verysmooth turns and control was effortless as I island hopped my wayaround the numerous island that make up the Philippines and scouredthe jungles of Borneo for lost treasures. /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-22.jpg /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-23.jpg /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-10.jpg /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-11.jpgOn the sunny day I ran my tests, the window reflections from insidethe cabin felt authentic and realistic and it really was a genuinepleasure to fly the C42C. Some of the more complex aircraft I haveflown always feel to me that at times there is just too much going on,but the simplicity and quality of the C42C really mean the end usercan enjoy their flying in as realistic a manner as possible. The factthat both the models on offer are based on the real-life experiencesof one of the developers has to be a good thing, and really showstheir commitment for quality that we all have come to expect from thevFlyte Air team. I have a couple of their other aircraft in my hangar,and the addition of the C42C really is another great addition to theX-Plane world. In my opinion, this is one of the best examples of anultralight with respect to quality and value, and it offers somethingjust a little bit quirky and different. I completed my various tests by attempting a couple of nightflights to try out the night-time features. I found the instrumentpanel to be warm, well-lit and easy to read if you decide to take theC42C out after dark. My favorite time of the day to fly is arounddusk just as the sun is going down, particularly around SoutheastAsia, and with the large expanse of glass surrounding you, the C42C isa perfect aircraft to do it in as the view is almost unobstructed. /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-14.jpg /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-15.jpgFinal ThoughtsI really enjoyed my experience in the vFlyteAir Simulations Ikarus C42CUltralight and if you are looking for an ultralight to add to yourhangar, it is really well worth a look. Both models are packed withfeatures, it flies really well and looks fabulous. The addition ofquirky features such as parachute recovery system and traffic trackermake it stand out a little from others, and this sort of detail inconjunction with the overall high quality of the modelling make thisan ideal candidate for purchase if you are looking for an aircraft inthis class. /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-16.jpg /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-17.jpg[Editor's Note: the definition of "ultralight" varies quite a bit fromcountry to country. In the U.S. this plane would definitely not be anultralight but would fall under the Light Sport category. In othercountries it might be termed a microlight.] /images/reviews/ikarus42/ikarus-c42c.jpgStuart McGregor Purchase vFlyteAir Simulations - Ikarus C42C Ultralight See other vFlyteAir aircraft
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Ikarus C42CPublisher: vFlyteAir SimulationsReview Author: Stuart McGregorSuggested Price: $27.95/images/fsc/wbicons/store-buy-now-button.png /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-01.jpgThe AircraftThe aircraft under review in thisarticle is vFlyteAir Simulations Ikarus C42C Ultralight v1.0 releasedearlier this year. The C42C is a single engine, high wing monoplane and has beenaround since the mid-1990s, with more than 1200 aircraft sales beingreported across all variants. According to the literature from thedeveloper, the variant on offer here was modelled on D-MYSF which isactually flown by one of the developers, maximising the hands-ontransfer of real life into the virtual world. /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-24.jpg /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-25.jpg /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-18.jpg /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-19.jpgThe C42C is powered by a 100hp Rotax 912UL engine and has room fortwo crew in a side by side configuration. The even better news is thatthe vFlyteAir model comes in two variants, the basic trainer, and also afull panel model which adds extra instrumentation such as transponder,small coms panel and traffic indicator amongst other things. Nicetouch to get a two for one offer right from the get-go. One other feature Ilove about this aircraft which makes it quite unique in my hangar isthe inclusion of a Ballistic Rescue System (parachute) so ifeverything goes south during a flight you can still make it back toterra firma in one piece, although you may need a good panel beater toget the dents out! None of the other aircraft in my hangar have this,so it was a pleasant surprise to find this feature included and to beable to try something a little different. By the way... it does work,although the ultimate landing is, a little rustic to say theleast. Initial ThoughtsThe C42C may be small in size with only room for two seats, but boydoes it pack a punch. This little guy is loaded with features, and asthis class of aircraft is one of my favorites, I really enjoyed mytime with the C42C. This is a great example of never judge a book byits cover, and I believe the vFlyteAir team have done a fabulous jobat bringing it to X-Plane 11. /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-02.jpg /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-03.jpgI purchased my copy over at the FlightSim.Com Store and in myopinion it is very well priced at $27.95 considering you are getting twodifferent versions of the aircraft for that price. It is a fairlylarge download at a little over 327 MB, so be prepared for a bit of await if your internet speed is a little slow. Installation is so simple, just a case of drop and drag into yourAircraft folder, no security keys required for this one. Thedocumentation provided is very nice and you will find a PilotsOperating Handbook (POH), Manual (in German and English) and aFeatures list provided in the Documents folder. I highly recommendyou take a look at these because they are brimming with usefulinformation. /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-12.jpg /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-13.jpgThe inspiration for this model came from an aircraft one of theteam members is currently studying on. The quality and detail providedis really excellent, which for me just confirms you are dealing with adeveloper who is intent on providing a quality product. It is thelittle things like this that make all the difference to me, and thedocumentation is stuffed full of all sorts of excellent information.It includes technical drawings and data of the aircraft, detailedphotos of the layout and features, advice on hardware requirements,menu options, and lots, lots more. The fact that there are two aircraftversions provided means there is plenty for even the most experiencedsimmer to get their teeth into, and it took me a good couple of hoursto check out both and all the various features on offer. On The GroundThe exterior details are very nicely done, with screw heads, radioantennas, landing gear, control surface details through to the smoothmodern fuselage are just a few examples of why this aircraft is veryeasy on the eye. Another nice feature which can be seen from theoutside of the cabin is the synchronisation of the control stick withthe pilot's arms and head movements. Again, this extra attention todetail and realism makes a big difference and I am always impressedwhen developers go the extra mile to bring their aircraft to life. Youeven have a choice of co-pilot, as you can fly solo or be accompaniedby either male of female colleagues. This can all be controlled fromthe kneeboard menu that can be accessed via the pilot's side doorpocket. From this menu you can adjust elements such as the language(German or English), the units of measure, metric or imperial, weight,fuel loading as well as adjusting things like the pitot tube cover,wheel chocks, internal glass and a few others. /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-04.jpg /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-05.jpgThe stock model comes with a number of different liveries, 14 to beexact, and these cover countries such as the UK, USA, Germany, Franceand Canada. If you wish to create your own livery, over at thevFlyteAir web site, there is a free paint kit for download accordingto the information provided by the developer, although when I looked,I couldn't find it among the others available. At the time of writingthis review I had yet to receive a reply from the developer onthis. The provided liveries can be changed from the main X-Plane menuas normal, or from within the cockpit via the registration plaque inthe center of the instrument panel. This is a nice feature that iflike me, you are prone to forgetting this sort of thing at startup. As you look around the cabin, you will find lots of further detailsin a well modelled interior. Most of the switches, levers, fusebuttons, door catches, latches, roof mounted flap handle, parachuterelease mechanism, throttle and window vents are animated, and thefeel of the cabin is fantastic, plus nice and open, with lots of glasseffects which can be switched off if you so choose. The vFlyteAir teamreally have done their homework here and I can clearly see a largenumber of hours have gone into the C42C to get it to the standard itcurrently is. From what I could tell during my short tests, most ofthe relevant switch and radio features of my Saitek panels (switch, 2xradio, multi) worked with no need for any additional scripts. /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-06.jpg /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-07.jpgAdjusting the throttle, you can hear a nice change in the enginesound, and according to the developer many of the sounds used aretaken from the real aircraft. You will also find a couple of pop outfeatures on the top of the glare shield and these include aninteractive checklist as well as navigational charts. These chartscan be modified by the user to suit their own requirements by manuallyplacing the charts they wish to use in the Custom Avionics folder.This will take a little bit of effort as they have to be sized andnamed correctly, however I am sure it is worth the effort if youreally wish to immerse yourself in this aircraft. A couple of furtherinterior features I personally enjoyed were the INOP labels that canbe placed over various gauges by clicking just below each one, and themoving map and traffic warning system (that works with WT3) that areavailable in the full panel model. I also found that a number of thegauges and panels pop out for easier reading, although they are allpretty clear in situ. For fans of AVITab you won't be disappointed asthat is also integrated into each of the models and can be adjusted tosuit or completely removed if you chose not to use it. The gullwingdoors are a distinctive feature of this aircraft and both the pilotand co-pilot doors can be opened which results in a nice change inengine volume. /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-08.jpg /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-09.jpg /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-20.jpg /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-21.jpgI use 3 x 27" screens and sitting on the runway ready to go in theC42C felt great. My tests flights were in an around BruneiInternational Airport (WBSB) and Sanaga Sanga (RPMN) in thePhilippines at various times of day with clear skies and WT3 doing itsthing in the background. My frame rates were all very good, 35 fps andabove, so all good. Control when taxiing and on the runway with my VKB pedals was goodand accurate, and takeoff with my MaxFlightStick control stick (reallyfor helicopters but works a treat) was also very smooth and easy tocontrol. And up I went. In The AirDuring the climb and descent I found the C42C very responsive to myinput, without being too sensitive, and I easily managed to control myrate of climb/descent, airspeed and direction. Once up in the air andin my cruise, my fps increased to 40 plus over the jungles ofSoutheast Asia, and again the feel of the C42C was excellent. Verysmooth turns and control was effortless as I island hopped my wayaround the numerous island that make up the Philippines and scouredthe jungles of Borneo for lost treasures. /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-22.jpg /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-23.jpg /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-10.jpg /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-11.jpgOn the sunny day I ran my tests, the window reflections from insidethe cabin felt authentic and realistic and it really was a genuinepleasure to fly the C42C. Some of the more complex aircraft I haveflown always feel to me that at times there is just too much going on,but the simplicity and quality of the C42C really mean the end usercan enjoy their flying in as realistic a manner as possible. The factthat both the models on offer are based on the real-life experiencesof one of the developers has to be a good thing, and really showstheir commitment for quality that we all have come to expect from thevFlyte Air team. I have a couple of their other aircraft in my hangar,and the addition of the C42C really is another great addition to theX-Plane world. In my opinion, this is one of the best examples of anultralight with respect to quality and value, and it offers somethingjust a little bit quirky and different. I completed my various tests by attempting a couple of nightflights to try out the night-time features. I found the instrumentpanel to be warm, well-lit and easy to read if you decide to take theC42C out after dark. My favorite time of the day to fly is arounddusk just as the sun is going down, particularly around SoutheastAsia, and with the large expanse of glass surrounding you, the C42C isa perfect aircraft to do it in as the view is almost unobstructed. /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-14.jpg /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-15.jpgFinal ThoughtsI really enjoyed my experience in the vFlyteAir Simulations Ikarus C42CUltralight and if you are looking for an ultralight to add to yourhangar, it is really well worth a look. Both models are packed withfeatures, it flies really well and looks fabulous. The addition ofquirky features such as parachute recovery system and traffic trackermake it stand out a little from others, and this sort of detail inconjunction with the overall high quality of the modelling make thisan ideal candidate for purchase if you are looking for an aircraft inthis class. /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-16.jpg /images/reviews/ikarus42/t/vFlyteAir-Ikarus-C42C-17.jpg[Editor's Note: the definition of "ultralight" varies quite a bit fromcountry to country. In the U.S. this plane would definitely not be anultralight but would fall under the Light Sport category. In othercountries it might be termed a microlight.] /images/reviews/ikarus42/ikarus-c42c.jpgStuart McGregor Purchase vFlyteAir Simulations - Ikarus C42C Ultralight See other vFlyteAir aircraft