The Aerosoft CRJ 700/900 X is a high-end add-on for Microsoft Flight Simulator X and Prepar3D that simulates the Bombardier CRJ 700 and 900 series of regional jets. These aircraft are popular among airlines and pilots for their efficiency, reliability, and agility. They also offer a challenging and rewarding flying experience for flight simulator enthusiasts who enjoy flying according to instrument flight rules (IFR) and manual control. In this article, we will take a look at the features, performance, and quality of this add-on, and see how it compares to the real aircraft and other similar products.
The Aerosoft CRJ 700/900 X comes with four variants of the CRJ family: the CRJ 550, 700, 900, and 1000. Each variant has its own accurate flight model, performance, and liveries. The add-on also includes a comprehensive flight management system (FMS) with updated nav data, a realistic autopilot system, a heads-up guidance system (HGS), and a complete MCDU with full keyboard control option. The add-on also features a custom sound set by Turbine Sound Studios, a RAAS system by FS2Crew, and a virtual cockpit tool (DAVE) that allows you to manage fuel, passengers, baggage, settings, and checklists.
The add-on has been designed with the latest standards of modeling, texturing, and animation. The exterior and interior models are highly detailed and covered with high-resolution PBR textures that convey virtual reality very well. The animations are fluid and realistic, such as the landing gear, flaps, doors, spoilers, thrust reversers, and wing flex. The virtual cockpit is also very immersive and functional, with all displays available as high-resolution 2D windows. The add-on also supports dynamic lighting and other new features of Prepar3D V4.
The Aerosoft CRJ 700/900 X is not only visually stunning, but also very realistic in terms of flight dynamics and systems. The add-on has been developed with the help of real-world CRJ pilots and engineers, who provided valuable feedback and data. The flight model is accurate and responsive, reflecting the power, speed, and handling characteristics of each variant. The systems are also complex and faithful to the real aircraft, such as the electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, fuel, environmental, fire protection, ice protection, anti-skid, and trim systems. The FMS is also very advanced and user-friendly, allowing you to plan and execute your flight plan with ease. The autopilot system is also reliable and versatile, offering various modes of lateral and vertical navigation.
However, the add-on also requires a high level of skill and attention from the pilot. Unlike modern airliners that have a lot of automation features, the CRJ has some limitations that make it more challenging to fly. For example, there is no autothrottle system or vertical speed mode in the autopilot. You have to manually adjust the thrust levers and pitch attitude to maintain your desired speed and altitude. You also have to monitor your fuel consumption and balance carefully, as the CRJ has no fuel transfer system or center tank. Moreover, you have to be aware of the specific procedures and quirks of the CRJ family, such as the flap schedule, the speed bugs, the direct-to function, the temperature compensation, and the VNAV advisory.
The Aerosoft CRJ 700/900 X is a high-quality product that delivers what it promises: a realistic and immersive simulation of the CRJ family. The add-on has been tested extensively by beta testers and reviewers before its release, ensuring that it is stable and bug-free. The add-on also comes with five manuals that cover everything from installation to operation in detail. The documentation is clear and comprehensive, providing step-by-step instructions and tips for beginners and experts alike. The add-on also has a friendly customer support team that is ready to answer any questions or issues that you may have.
The add-on also offers a lot of customization options that allow you to tweak it to your liking and your hardware. You can use the livery manager to install or uninstall liveries with drag-and-drop functionality. You can use the configuration tool to adjust various settings such as display units, sound volumes, panel states, realism options, and performance options. You can also use DAVE to change the payload, fuel, and center of gravity of your aircraft, as well as the weather, time, and location of your flight. The add-on also has a panel state saving and loading feature that allows you to resume your flight from where you left off.
The Aerosoft CRJ 700/900 X is a must-have add-on for any flight simulator fan who loves flying regional jets. It is a faithful and detailed representation of the CRJ family that offers a lot of features, realism, and fun. It is also a very affordable product that gives you four variants of the CRJ for the price of one. Whether you are a casual flyer or a hardcore simmer, you will find something to enjoy and learn from this add-on. The Aerosoft CRJ 700/900 X is available for purchase from the Aerosoft US Shop or simMarket. You can also watch a video review by Drawyah on YouTube.