The one on the left brings up the default X-Plane map, whilst the one on the right brings up AviTab (if installed). On either side of the pilot, there are two side pockets which can be activated. When selected, you will find that it adds additional information to the two GF1000 displays. When you’re ready to operate the starter, you get a nice audio call of “Clear Prop”, which I thought was a nice touch! AOA Simulations also provide a plug-in which enables you to toggle the “Extras” option on and off. The engine start checklist is displayed on the Garmin 430’s display when the battery switch is set to on, and this updates as the steps are completed. Whilst I appreciate the fact that this is a kit aircraft, it would be nice to see a degree of weathering applied (not all aircraft will be new).īoth variants in the package sport the same glass cockpit configuration, two G1000 displays, a Garmin 430 GPS, a Garmin 245A Audio Panel and a Garmin GFC500, so you’re not left wanting by any means. Also, the prop and mixture handles seemed a bit on the small side, but then again, perhaps I just have big hands! Texturing was, for the most part, very nicely done, although it did seem a bit too clean. Moving on to the interior of the RV-8 and I found that whilst good, the modelling wasn’t quite up to the same standard as the exterior, the footwell being one example, which looked slightly odd in my opinion. As well as those already supplied, AOA Simulations have also made available several livery packs for download, the link for which, can be found in the user guide.Īdditional liveries from the developer can also be found at the Org. There are a few liveries included with the model, as well as a paint kit should you wish to create your own. There is also a little cubbyhole just in front of the cockpit which contains a first aid kit, a fire extinguisher, plus room for a few small personal items. The wheel covers and rear suspension are also nicely modelled, as are the light clusters in the wingtips. As with most AOA models, there are some nice touches included, such as the “Remove Before Flight” ribbons if you start from cold and dark.ĪOA’s RV-8’s control surfaces are nicely animated, as is the cockpit canopy, which automatically closes when the aircraft reaches 10MPH and above (perfect for those who tend to forget such things). I didn’t spot any real visual differences in the engine cowlings, but the RV-8 is modelled with 180HP, whilst the RV8A gets the increased 200HP powerplant. It is well-modelled and judging by images I have seen of the real thing, is accurately proportioned. The RV-8 has a relatively simple shape, something I assume aids with its kit construction. Note: At the time of writing the RV-8 package is for X-Plane 11 only, but the developer has stated that an X-Plane 12 version is in development (will be a free update to existing customers) and will be released when the new simulator is deemed ready. The user guide is twenty pages in length and is well worth a read as it explains how to lean the engine and perform aerobatics, along with a suggested button guide for joysticks and other helpful tips. There is also a document for Apple users detailing the required security setting. Included in the download, is a rather nice X-Plane user guide and a brochure from Van’s Aircraft, introducing you to their range of models. When done, it’s just a simple case of extracting the file and then copying it over to your X-Plane “Aircraft” folder (no activation keys required). ![]() With your purchase completed, you are provided with a link in which to download the required 150MB ZIP file. The individual aircraft are priced at $24, with the Duo Pack (being reviewed here) costing $32. Three different packages of the RV-8 are available to purchase via the store: taildragger, tricycle or a package including both. There are two variants of the RV-8 kits available from the manufacturer, one with a traditional taildragger configuration and the RV-8A, which uses a tricycle undercarriage instead. This had clipped wings and utilised a Lycoming IO-540 engine with 300 horsepower. The two-seat RVs are designed to use Lycoming-style engines developing between 118 and 200 horsepower, although a higher performance derivative was also produced, the Harmon Rocket. Like the RV-4, the RV-8 variant has two seats, one behind the other and is generally larger overall. It first flew in 1995 and as of late 2022, over 1500 have been built. One of those kits is the RV-8, a two-seat aerobatic model featuring a bubble canopy providing good all-around visibility. Aircraft Review: Van's RV-8 /8A Duo by AOA Simulationsįounded in 1973 in the USA by Richard Van Grunsven, Van’s Aircraft has, for the last fifty years, produced a series of highly successful low-wing monoplane kit aircraft.
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