Alpha Simulations released their lates addition to the RAF/RN section: the English Electric Lightning T.4/T.5. The third installment in the AlphaSim Lightning range covers the two-seater variants -- model package includes the first 'twin tub' (T.4), the more refined T.5 and also two bonus models in the shape of the T.55 Saudi export variant and a ficticious NASA T.5 Lightning. The models all exhibit the same attention to detail for which the first two AlphaSim Lightning packages were highly commended -- high-detail reflective texturing and numerous features such as a drag chute, afterburner/smoke & vortices effects, and even crew access ladders, intake blank and wheel chocks for added realism.

The exterior is only half the story though, the cockpit is a superb representation of the real thing, both the T.4 and T.5 have unique cockpit models and panels. The virtual cockpits are topped off with great 'mousability' and even night-time gauge illumination. The Lightning sounds package is also included. This is an indispensible addon package for fans both of the Lightning and the era of classic jet interceptors! The AlphaSim English Electric Lightning T.4/T.5 is priced at $22.00 and is available for purchase and donwload.

 More information: Alpha Simulations

Aerosoft Online released today some preview screenshots of their upcoming scenery title Casablanca 2006. The team says: "This is a product that is easy to underestimate as it is perhaps a bit out of the standard routes of our customers, but when you buy this product you get 2 airports and a complete city. And look at the screenshots and you will see the level of detail." When asked about a release date, they answer: "Well, let's say close. Close as in days more then weeks."

 Preview screenshots: Aerosoft Online - Forums

A brand new Flight Simulator X preview video has been released by Adam Szofran, the developer in charge of terrain generation and rendering on Flight Sim X. Adam recorded a video of the new terrain engine with a camera starting from the ground and going all up to space. You can clearly see the Earth's curvature from this new video! Aditionally, he released his GDC presentation in Word and Power Point formats - it contains loads of information about the Flight Simulator X development... definitely worth reading!

 Flight Simulator X - Preview Video: White-Clouds.org

Image Simulations released today their latest scenery title for Flight Simulator, Newark Liberty Intl. (KEWR). Newark is among the most important airports in the US, a vital destination for most of the world's premier airlines and a major base for Continental. The airport features custom made runways, terminal buildings rendered to 10cm per pixel scale, smoothly operating jetways that dock with your aircraft’s forward door with an interactive docking system to park you right on your mark, taxiways with highly realistic concrete textures, full airport taxiway and runway signage, 3D approach lighting and full ILS navigation.

There are hundreds of airport vehicles and ground personnel, aircraft can be found parked at custom textured parking positions, all hangers, cargo and airport auxiliary buildings are modelled,  there is even a complete and secure perimeter fence with security checkpoints and emergency vehicle access points - all under the steady gaze of intermittently placed security cameras! You will also find right across the airport land area literally thousands of objects created with incredible accuracy and placed with the aid of pin-point satellite photography. Priced at $22.99, the ImagineSim "Newark Liberty" is now available for download and purchase!

 Screenshots and details: Imagine Simulations - Product Page

FSAddon released today their first photographic scenery, named Salt Lake City Photo. Developed in association with CoBoy Design, Salt Lake City Photo was designed using aerial photographs to present a very detailed view of the area, depicting every object that is present in the real world. Everything from roads to terrain color matches the real Salt Lake City! A high-resolution mesh covers 40,000km² of terrain and autogen was manually aligned with the streets and roads for increased realism.

Salt Lake City Photo features photographic textures for both summer and winter seasons, both of them with night textures included. Also featured in the package are a fully aligned autogen, seamless integration with the default FS2004 landclass, enhanced airports and landable water. The FSAddon "Salt Lake City Photo" is ideal for both IFR and VFR pilots, and is available for EUR 14.95.

 Screenshots and details: FSAddon - Product Page