X-Plane’s powerful flight dynamics model allowed the developers to create a wide variety of aircraft. While X-Plane is a paid product, the free demo version of X-Plane 11 has the same aircraft, flight model, and technology. It is less effective for creating new aircraft or predicting the reaction of an airplane in experimental situations.ĭefault Cessna 172SP in X-Plane 11 with sunset in the background. This works well for existing aircraft where the table data is already known. In contrast, Microsoft Flight Simulator, X-Plane’s biggest rival, uses lookup tables to determine flight drag and lift. This provides a realistic flying experience and makes aircraft development simpler and faster. X-Plane’s exclusive flight dynamics model, called “blade element theory,” evaluates the forces on multiple sections of the aircraft’s surface, providing a constant and reliable prediction of how it will react to those forces. While enthusiasts of all experience levels use X-Plane, it is best suited to experienced pilots that want the most accurate flight dynamic possible. This package includes all installer versions for Windows, Mac, and Linux.ĭEMO IS NOW VERSION 11 (X-Plane 11).