Minor Patch!

 I was just finishing a session last night when a new patch auto-installed. It's strictly a patch for stability and some priority bugs, as apparently, a more significant patch will be released next week that promises to squish some of the broader issues plaguing our play.

Certification: Turbo Prop Engine Rating


I relished the opportunity to gain my Turboprop rating. The Cessna 208 Grand Caravan was my favourite aircraft in Flight Simulator 2020. Its greater speed and durability compared to the trusty Skyhawk benefited my touring and sightseeing. 

What's interesting is how the certification forces you to learn some additional details -- like the 208's reverse thrust capability. Using this feature is what this certification tests you on. I managed countless flights in 2020 without ever knowing about this. This is where 2024 feels like it's planting deeper roots than the previous version, even with all its many problems. The career mode has given me a purpose I never had in 2020. The play mode I most enjoyed -- Bush flights always seemed problematic, so much so that I gave up flying them. If the career mode's issues get addressed slowly, it could go the same way, but I don't think so. There are enough mission types, challenges and other activities to keep things novel. Also, some of the bugs are actually just where I'd screwed up. For example, I took three attempts at the Turboprop rating example. The first time I managed to tip the plane turning onto the taxiway too fast. On the second attempt, the engine kept cutting out because I'd accidentally brushed a control.


I took a break from career flying to have some fun. The Draco X, is a unique aircraft: part bush plane, part angry dragonfly. I have vague memories of watching YouTube videos by a crazy-talented aircraft designer. I now realise THAT was the Draco's creator, Mike Patey.

For plane enthusiasts, this is Mike Patey:
Mam Tor, Castleton
Landing on the top of Mam Tor sounds like some kind of aviation feat, except the Draco could land on a sufficiently sturdy bird table. Great fun!

My home, Sheffield, from the West.


I'd been struggling with execution time. I fixed it! Don't be afraid to nose down and dive bomb the airfield. You can level and bleed off speed whenever you get into the "yellow zone." My Landings have taken a hit, though. Maybe I'm getting too complacent or impatient.

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