Flight Manual

Flight Manual
Contents
How to Play
Map Screen
Changing the Map View
Region Select
Marketplace
Playing Online
Aircraft Icons
1
Checklists12
Using Checklists
Running a Checklist
Checklist Options
Types of Checklists
1
Rewards13
Awards
Unlocks
Icons3
Using the Mouse
4
Playing Offline
Flying in Mouse Mode
Flight Conditions
Controller5
Joystick6
Mouse6
Essential Keyboard Commands
7
Camera Views
Heads-Up Display (HUD)
The Eyepoint
Turning Off the Heads-Up Display (HUD)
Points of Interest (POI)
Point of Interest Markers
Point of Interest Arrows
8
9
10
10
10
14
Conditions in Free Flight Mode
Conditions in Multiplayer Mode
14
14
The Hangar
15
Choosing an Aircraft
Painting Your Aircraft
Managing Fuel
Downloading New Aircraft
Waypoints11
Skip to Waypoint
Checkpoints11
Mission Basics
16
Mission Screens
16
Mission Breakdown
Pause Menu
Mission Failed Menu
Mission Debriefing Screen
Loading Checkpoints
Walk Around Mode
14
Flight Conditions Screen
Weather
Time of Day
Season
Game Controls
Aircraft Controls
13
11
ii
Job Board
18
Jobs18
Challenges19
Compare to Other Pilots
Graphics27
Vertical Sync
Overall Graphics Settings
Custom Settings
20
Gameplay28
Flight Control Assistance
Display
Camera
Aerocaches21
21
Difficulty Rating
Aerocache Hunts
22
22
Finding Aerocaches
Acquiring Aerocaches
26
26
Options27
20
Finding and Acquiring Aerocaches
Text Chat
Voice Chat
Speaking with Other Players
Career20
Statistics
Pilot Portrait
Profile Roaming
25
25
Inviting Friends
Selecting your Aircraft
Exploring Different Areas
An Introduction to Cargo Runs
Pilot Profile
Target Friends
Locate Friends Online
Audio28
Game Controls
28
Aircraft Controls
28
Key Terms
Free Flight
Explore the Skies
Select an Aircraft
Customize Flight Conditions
Practice Landing
Earn Awards
23
23
Multiplayer 24
Quick Match
Host a Session
24
24
Selecting a Session Type
Locating Other Players
Stats25
iii
29
How to Play
Map Screen
Changing the Map View
The directional arrows move the map one step in any cardinal direction.
You can also move the map by simply clicking on the map and
dragging.
The zoom bar is used to increase or decrease the magnification of the
map. Click the Plus Sign (+) to zoom in and the Minus Sign (-) to zoom
out. You can also rotate the mouse wheel to zoom in or out.
In regions with a large number of airstrips in a small area, zoom in to
reveal additional airstrips that aren’t visible on the map when fully
zoomed out. In areas with an especially dense concentration of airstrips,
a numbered icon appears to indicate the presence of additional airstrips
nearby.
Region Select
From the Map screen, you can also travel between regions to test your
skills in a variety of environments. To travel to a different region, click
the World icon in the upper left corner, then click the region you want
to travel to. ln order to visit new regions, you must first purchase the
Experience Pack for the region from the Marketplace.
The Map screen is your first stop on the path to exciting adventures,
challenging missions, and multiplayer fun.
On the left side of the Map screen are the directional arrows, the zoom
bar, and the Microsoft Flight Data Server icon.
1
Marketplace
Playing Online
Visit the Marketplace to view a variety of additional content, including
new aircraft and Experience Packs featuring new locations. To view the
current offers in the Marketplace, click the Marketplace icon on the main
menu or the Map screen. In the Marketplace you can filter between
aircraft types and experience packs to more conveniently peruse the
available content. To purchase content, simply click the icon of the item
you want to purchase, then click Purchase on the details screen to buy
and download the item.
The circle located below the directional arrows on the Map screen is the
Microsoft Flight Data Server icon. It indicates whether your computer
network is connected to the Microsoft Flight data server. If the icon is a
solid circle, you are connected. If the icon is a circle with a line through
it, you are playing offline.
Aircraft Icons
If you click the Free Flight icon, an aircraft icon will appear on the map
in the current location of your aircraft. Drag this icon to any location on
the map, and then click Fly in the Free Flight menu to start flying from
that spot.
Your aircraft flies in the direction your aircraft icon is pointing. To
change your heading from the Map screen, rotate the ring around your
aircraft icon.
If you see a gray aircraft icon on the map, it means another player has
joined the game. To fly near that player, drag your aircraft icon next to
the gray icon, and then click Fly in the Free Flight menu.
2
Icons
The Legend gives you information about all of
the airports and runways on the map.
Missions are more structured adventures that
teach you game play basics and help to advance
your career as a pilot.
The Hangar is where you find your aircraft. It is
also where you download new planes, change
paint schemes, and fuel up.
Challenges are tasks that test your agility and
skill as pilot, from making a series of precise
landings to collecting rings in a maze of
obstacles.
The Pilot Profile offers you a snapshot of your
career as a pilot and your general progress
throughout the game.
Aerocache hunts send you out in search of
objects hidden on the ground and in the air.
Multiplayer mode allows you to fly with up to
15 other people. Fly in group formations, share
tips and tricks with other players, or chat with
friends as you explore the skies.
Free Flight mode gives you the freedom to
explore the skies at your own pace. Drag your
aircraft to any location and let the adventure
begin.
The Marketplace gives you access to the
latest content for Microsoft Flight, including
experience packs featuring new terrain and a
variety of aircraft to add to your livery.
Flight Conditions, such as weather, wind, and
time of day, can make a big difference in your
flight experience. Change the conditions to face
a whole new set of flying challenges.
World allows you to travel between regions
after purchasing new experience packs.
The Load Free Flight option allows you pick up
right where you left off in a saved Free Flight
session.
The Main Menu enables you to change your
graphic and gameplay settings, connect to your
Games for Windows® – LIVE account, or go to
the Microsoft Flight website.
3
Using the Mouse
Turning
Move the mouse left or right to bank the wings (turn your aircraft).
Make small movements with the mouse when banking. Moving too
abruptly in any direction may cause you to lose control of your aircraft.
The mouse is a multifunctional tool that can be used to fly your aircraft,
look around the world, zoom in on objects, and manipulate the controls
in the cockpit.
Climbing and Descending
Move the mouse forward to climb and move the mouse back to
descend. If these default mouse controls feel reversed, you can invert
the Y-axis so that you move the mouse back to climb and move the
mouse forward to descend.
Flying in Mouse Mode
Use the mouse to control your aircraft as you turn, climb, and descend.
The mouse also controls the throttle setting.
To pause Mouse mode, press the Spacebar.
To invert the Y-axis
1. Press Esc.
2. Click the Options button.
3. Click the Gameplay tab on the Options menu.
4. Select the Invert Mouse Pitch check box under Aircraft Controls.
5. Click the Accept button at the bottom of the screen.
6. Click Resume on the Pause menu to continue playing.
Adjusting the Throttle Setting
Rotate the mouse wheel to increase or decrease the throttle settings in
Mouse mode.
Tip: Before you pause Mouse mode, make sure your aircraft
is flying straight and level at a high enough elevation.
When you fly in Mouse mode, a small X icon appears in the center of
the screen. It is controlled by the movement of the mouse, which in turn
controls the aircraft.
Alternate Controls
In addition to Mouse mode, Microsoft Flight supports a number of
other controls, including Xbox 360 Controller for Windows, joystick, and
TrackIR.
Tip: Position the pointer in the very center of the cross hair to fly
straight and level.
4
Controller
] Rudder left
^ Rudder right
< Return to map
> Pause
_ Decrease throttle
` Increase throttle
LT
RT
LB
RB
Y Change camera view
B Landing gear
up/down
L Pitch and roll
(steering)
A Brakes/menu
navigation
X Enter/exit aircraft
s Raise flaps
o Lower flaps
5
C Look around
(press to recenter)
Mouse
Joystick
Brakes
Look around
Trim nose up
Mouse in-flight
Descend
Change camera
view
Increase/decrease throttle
Trim nose down
Turn right
Descend
Turn left
Climb
Turn left
Turn right
Rudder left/right
Climb
Mouse on Map
Decrease throttle
Increase throttle
Raise flaps
Drop object
Move map
Click and drag
Position aircraft icon
Right-click
Zoom in/out
Rotate wheel
Mouse in Cockpit
(Mouse mode paused)
Lower flaps
Landing gear up/down
6
Adjust cockpit control
Click and drag
Look around
Right-click and drag
Zoom in/out
Rotate wheel
Move eyepoint
Click wheel button and drag
Essential Keyboard Commands
Game Controls
Aircraft Controls
General Gameplay
Fly with Mouse (On/Off)
Spacebar
Pause Menu
Esc
Skip to Waypoint
N
Checklist (On/Off)
Q
MapM
Text Chat
T
Voice Chat: All
Tab
Capture Screenshot*
V
Control Surfaces
Aileron: Left
Aileron: Right
Elevator: Up
Elevator: Down
Rudder: Move Left
Rudder: Move Right
Stop and Go
* Screenshots are stored in C:\Users\USERNAME\Pictures\Flight
Throttle: Decrease
Throttle: Increase
Throttle: Maximum
Throttle: Minimum
Brakes: Both
Brake: Right
Brake: Left
Landing Gear (Up/Down)
On the Ground
Walk Forward
W
Walk Backward
S
Walk Left
A
Walk Right
D
Aircraft (Enter/Exit)
E
O
Door (Open/Close)
FuelF
In the Cockpit
Camera Views
Camera: Next
Camera: Chase View
Camera: Cockpit
Camera: Flyby
Camera: Free Look
Camera: Top-Down
Camera: Reset Position
Left Arrow
Right Arrow
Down Arrow
Up Arrow
A
D
Flaps: Decrease
Flaps: Increase
Mixture: Min
Mixture: Decrease
Mixture: Increase
Mixture: Max
Trim Down
Trim Up
Minimum Prop RPM Decrease Prop RPM
Increase Prop RPM
Maximum Prop RPM
F7
F8
F9
F10
F11
F12
Backspace
7
S or F2
W or F3
F4
F1
X
C
Z
G
F5
F6
Shift+F1
Shift+ F2
Shift+F3
Shift+F4
Shift+Up Arrow
Shift+Down Arrow
Ctrl+F1
Ctrl+F2
Ctrl+F3
Ctrl+F4
Camera Views
Free Look (F11)
Free Look is a panoramic view from the outside of the aircraft. This view
can give you perspective on the location of your aircraft relative to
geographic features, such as the ocean or mountain ranges. You don’t
have to pause Mouse mode to use Free Look. Just right-click and drag
to start looking around. To use Free Look, press F11.
Real-world pilots are skilled at switching between viewpoints during a
flight. While they mostly focus on the horizon, they must also scan the
cockpit instruments and look down at the world below.
There are five different camera views, each one providing you
with a different experience. Some views show your aircraft and the
surrounding world in a cinematic shot, while other views can help you
achieve greater control of your aircraft.
Top-Down View (F12)
Top-Down view shows your aircraft from above, as if a camera is filming
straight down. This view can help you get a better idea of your location
relative to the world around you. Rotate the mouse wheel to zoom in or
out on the terrain below. To use Top-Down view, press F12.
Chase View (F8)
Chase view shows your aircraft from behind, as if a trailing aircraft is
filming your flight. This is a great view for overall control of the aircraft,
but it does not show the cockpit. Use the Heads-Up Display to view
your heading, altitude, speed, and fuel level. To use Chase view, press
F8.
Remote Control (R)
Remote Control drops a camera when you press R, giving you a view of
your aircraft from wherever you started Remote Control view. Make sure
you keep your aircraft in sight in order to maintain control.
Flyby View (F10)
Flyby view gives you the cinematic experience of watching your aircraft
fly past a stationary camera set in the air. From this view, you can take
in-flight screenshots. To use Flyby view, press F10.
Tip: Deluxe model aircraft come with a Cockpit View that closely
simulates what pilots see in the real world. To activate Cockpit
View in a Deluxe aircraft, press F9.
8
Heads-Up Display (HUD)
The Heads-Up Display, located at the top of the screen, is where you will find information on your speed, throttle setting, heading, altitude,
and fuel level.
Speed
Indicates your aircraft’s speed in
nautical miles per hour, or knots.
Heading Indicator
Altimeter
Indicates which direction the aircraft is flying. Each
line on the heading indicator represents 5 degrees in
a given direction.
Displays your
aircraft’s altitude in
feet above sea level.
Wind Speed
and Direction
Indicates the
direction of the
wind and its speed
in nautical miles
per hour.
Throttle Setting
Fuel Gauge
Shows the current position of the aircraft’s throttle, which can
range from 0% (idle) to 100 % (full throttle).
Indicates the
aircraft’s fuel level.
9
The Eyepoint
Points of Interest (POI)
The eyepoint is your position in the cockpit. Moving the eyepoint can
give you a better view of the horizon, taxiway, or surrounding features,
much like adjusting your seat or leaning to either side would in the real
world.
Missions and multiplayer sessions feature two directional cues called the
Point of Interest marker and the Point of Interest arrow.
Adjusting your position in the cockpit is especially helpful while taxiing,
since it can give you a better view of the bends and turns on the
taxiway. If you can anticipate turns, you can avoid making dangerous
mistakes like braking too hard, turning too tightly, or driving off the
taxiway.
There are four types of POI markers.
Point of Interest Markers
• Objective markers are yellow, diamond-shaped markers that help
you approximate a flight path to the mission objective.
• Aerocache markers are yellow, hexagon-shaped markers that
show you the location of an Aerocache. They are only visible once
you fly close enough to an Aerocache to activate its marker.
To move the eyepoint
• Checklist markers are green markers that indicate instruments or
controls related to your current checklist task.
1. Click the wheel button on your mouse.
2. Drag up, down, right, or left.
• Multiplayer markers are blue markers that show you where other
players are located. You can cycle through connected players using
the [ and ] keys.
To reset your view, press Backspace.
Turning Off the Heads-Up Display (HUD)
Point of Interest Arrows
If you are an advanced flier, or wish to challenge yourself, turn off
the HUD and use the cockpit instruments to guide your flight. Go to
the Options menu, select the Gameplay tab, and clear the Heads-Up
Display check box.
POI arrows help guide you toward a POI marker. If you fly off course,
the arrow stays fixed on the marker. Follow the arrow to continue on the
path toward the mission objective.
If you change any of the settings, be sure to press the Accept button
before you exit the Options menu.
Turning Off the POI Arrow
You cannot turn off the POI arrow during missions, but you can turn it
off during Aerocache hunts or while playing in Multiplayer mode.
Tip: The cockpit instruments are only visible in Cockpit view.
Remember that Cockpit view is only available with Deluxe
model aircraft.
To turn off the POI arrow
1. Go to the Main menu.
2. Click the Options button.
3. Select the Gameplay tab on the Options menu.
4. Select the check box next to Point of Interest under Display.
5. Click the Accept button to save your changes.
10
Waypoints
Walk Around Mode
Some missions contain waypoints, or fixed locations along the path to
your final destination. Waypoints are placed on the runway and in the
air, usually near a Point of Interest marker.
Walk Around mode allows you to explore at ground level. In this mode,
you can move the mouse in any direction to look around you.
Walking to Aircraft
Some missions require you to walk to your aircraft and board before
takeoff. Press W to walk and press E to enter or exit the aircraft. You
cannot enter or exit a moving aircraft.
Skip to Waypoint
The Skip to Waypoint function activates when a new leg of your mission
begins. When the Skip to Waypoint pop-up appears on your screen,
you can press N to skip ahead to the next waypoint. If you want to skip
tasks like taxiing to a runway, this is a great time-saving feature.
Walking to Aerocaches
If an Aerocache is hidden on the ground, you may need to get out of
the aircraft and walk to its location.
Tip: Keep an eye on the fuel tank. When you activate the Skip
to Waypoint feature, your aircraft burns the amount of fuel it
would have taken to fly to that waypoint normally. If your fuel
level is low, you may need to refuel as soon as you arrive at the
next waypoint.
Tip: To sprint in any direction, hold down Shift while pressing W,
S, A, or D.
Checkpoints
All missions feature checkpoints. Checkpoints pop up when you
complete a segment of a mission, marking your progress.
In early missions, checkpoints appear after you accomplish simple tasks,
such as taxiing or taking off. As you progress, checkpoints appear before
challenging tasks, such as landing or performing a tight turn. If you are
unable to complete the task successfully or crash your aircraft, you can
load the last checkpoint instead of restarting the entire mission.
Loading Checkpoints
The Load Checkpoint button appears on the Pause menu and the
Mission Fail screen. Click the Load Checkpoint button to return your
aircraft to the last checkpoint you reached in the mission.
Checkpoints cannot be saved. If you exit the mission, all checkpoints are
cleared.
11
Checklists
Try any of the following procedures to get a better view of the cockpit:
• Press F9 to switch to Cockpit view.
Pilots often review checklists before performing routine procedures to
ensure that they do not miss crucial steps during each stage of a flight.
Checklists also contain information specific to each aircraft, including
approach speeds, cruise speeds, and throttle settings.
• Right-click and drag the camera around.
• Press the Spacebar to pause Mouse mode, and then rotate the
mouse wheel to zoom in or out on the instrument panel.
• Click the wheel button on your mouse, and drag the eyepoint in
any direction.
Manipulating the Cockpit Controls
Many of the cockpit controls in an aircraft look similar. Checklists are
designed to reduce the confusion this can create. A control will light up
when a checklist procedure requires a setting change. Follow the green
arrow to locate the control, and then click to make the adjustment.
When you move one of the cockpit controls, it often affects another
instrument. An arrow and checklist POI appear any time this happens.
The arrow points to the control you need to move, and the POI indicates
the additional instrument you need to monitor.
Right-click and drag as you make your way down the checklist.
To verify the settings of some instruments, you may need to pause
Mouse mode and zoom in to see smaller numbers. When you perform
a checklist on the runway, you do not need to pause Mouse mode. You
can simply move the controls by dragging them in the appropriate
direction.
Tip: Checklists are only available in Deluxe model aircraft.
Using Checklists
When you perform a checklist in the air, it’s a good idea to pause Mouse
mode before you move any controls. You can perform a checklist
without pausing Mouse mode, but remember that any movement you
make with the mouse will also affect the movement of the aircraft.
Open checklists by pressing Q. Checklist procedures are called out in
the order of operation. Each procedure is associated with a cockpit
instrument or control that will stay lit until the task is completed.
There are three keys to success when using a checklist: changing the
camera view, manipulating the controls, and monitoring the cockpit
instruments.
Changing the Camera View
Before you complete any of the checklist tasks, you must be able to
see the cockpit instruments and controls. You will need to adjust the
view in most aircraft to see controls located below or to the side of the
instrument panel.
Moving controls with the mouse while using an alternate controller such
as a joystick has no effect on your aircraft’s movement.
Monitoring the Cockpit Instruments
Pilots must scan the instrument panel quickly and then return their
focus to the horizon. Checklists can help you hone this skill while flying.
12
Running a Checklist
Rewards
Checklists can be performed at any time when you are in an aircraft.
In Microsoft Flight, you earn awards and unlocks for honing your skills
and logging flight hours.
To run a checklist
1. Press Q.
Awards
2. Press 1 for Normal Procedures, or press 2 for Abnormal Procedures.
You earn Awards for accomplishing flight milestones, such as completing
your first mission, landing at a certain number of airports, and
transporting passengers. Unconventional gameplay can also earn you
awards, so don’t be afraid to get creative and have some fun in the air.
3. Press the number key corresponding to the appropriate checklist.
4. Perform the tasks, or press 1 to automate the checklist.
Checklist Options
Unlocks
The bottom of a checklist features a series of numbered options. These
options allow you to choose how you want to perform each of the
checklist items. The options are as follows:
Unlocks, such as new paint schemes, are awarded when you complete
tasks, such as earning certain amounts of Experience Points (XP) for jobs,
completing landing challenges, or acquiring specific Aerocaches.
• Automate Checklist—Automatically perform all checklist items.
• Abort Checklist—Remove the checklist menu.
Playing Offline
• Next Item— Skip current item and move to the next item on the
checklist. This option does not automate the current task.
You do not need an Internet connection to play Microsoft Flight.
However, to access the Boeing Stearman and associated missions and
challenges, you must first sign in to Games for Windows - LIVE and sync
your pilot profile with your Games for Windows - LIVE account.
• Do It—Automatically perform the highlighted checklist item.
Types of Checklists
If you play offline, your game progress is saved and your Pilot Profile will
synchronize the next time you sign in with your Games for Windows –
LIVE profile and password.
There are two types of checklists. Normal Procedures checklists walk
you through everyday tasks, such as taking off, maintaining cruise
speeds, and landing. Abnormal Procedures checklists guide you through
a variety of in-flight emergencies.
The following features are NOT available when you play offline:
• Aerocache hunt
• Message of the Day
• Downloadable content
• Text chat
• Voice chat
• Games for Windows – LIVE functionality
• Multiplayer mode
• Marketplace
13
• Profile updates
Flight Conditions
Enhance your experience while flying jobs and during Free Flight
sessions by changing atmospheric conditions. Certain missions aren’t
available in all Flight Conditions. If a mission is unavailable, try changing
the conditions. A dialogue box on the Map screen contains a listing of
the currently selected conditions.
Season
The season options are set to mimic real-world conditions in the area
where you are flying. Changing the season usually affects the amount of
daylight available. It may also affect certain climate factors.
Conditions in Free Flight Mode
Flight Conditions Screen
In Free Flight mode, you can return to the Map screen at any time to
change the Flight Conditions. Just select the conditions you want and
click the Free Flight option.
Changing conditions like the weather, time, or date can transform a
routine mission into challenging adventure. To get started, go to the
Map screen and click Flight Conditions in the Free Flight menu. The
Flight Conditions screen does not include an Accept button. When you
click one of the options, those conditions are set automatically.
Conditions in Multiplayer Mode
In Multiplayer mode, the host sets the Flight Conditions. All active
players in the session fly in the same conditions.
Weather
Click any of the weather options on the Flight Conditions screen to view
a brief description of the associated conditions.
Tip: You cannot change Flight Conditions during a mission.
If you want to change conditions, you must exit the mission,
change the conditions, and restart the mission.
Changing the weather can dramatically affect visibility and aircraft
control. In conditions with heavy rain or clouds, it is more difficult to
see, forcing you to rely on cockpit instruments. In high-wind conditions,
the aircraft is more difficult to control.
Time of Day
Use the drop-down menus on the Flight Conditions screen to set your
flight time, or select one of the four general time-of-day buttons: Dawn,
Day, Dusk, or Night.
Tip: You may be able to earn additional Experience Points (XP)
for flying missions at night.
14
The Hangar
The Hangar is a multipurpose facility where you can swap and repaint
aircraft, fuel up, or download new planes.
Painting Your Aircraft
You can customize certain aircraft with a brand-new coat of paint.
Choose an aircraft, and then click the Paint Schemes icon in the upperright corner of the screen. To save your changes, remember to click the
Select Aircraft button before you leave the Hangar.
Managing Fuel
Before heading out on a mission or exploring the world in Free Flight,
you can refuel in the Hangar. Click the Fuel icon in the upper-right
corner of the screen, and then drag to the right to add fuel. If you want
to lighten your fuel load, drag left.
Adding fuel increases both the range (distance you can fly) and total
weight of the aircraft. Dumping fuel reduces the range, but allows you
to carry more cargo. However, you won’t know how much fuel to take
on board until you actually pick up the cargo for a mission, so plan
accordingly.
Downloading New Aircraft
To find out more about any new aircraft available in the Hangar, you can
download a free preview. If you then decide you want to purchase the
aircraft, click the Learn More button to view additional details about the
aircraft, then click Purchase.
Choosing an Aircraft
When you enter the Hangar, your currently selected aircraft is displayed.
If you want to switch to a different aircraft, click one of the aircraft
images displayed at the bottom of the screen.
Remember to note the type of aircraft you’re purchasing before you
buy. Basic model aircraft don’t feature cockpit interactivity or checklists,
while Deluxe models include both.
Use the Details option in the upper-right corner of the screen to review
and compare your available aircraft.
You must be online to download new aircraft from Games for Windows
– LIVE. Check the connection on the Microsoft Flight Data Server icon.
15
Mission Basics
Missions are fun and challenging tasks that are also designed to teach
you the basics of flying.
Pause Menu
Press Esc at any time during a mission to pause the game. From the
Pause menu, you can select options to help you complete the mission,
change your settings, exit the mission, or quit the game.
Mission Screens
There are four different screens you can encounter during a mission: the
mission breakdown, the Pause menu, the Mission Failed menu, and the
Mission Debriefing screen.
Resume
Return to the mission.
Mission Breakdown
Options
Change the Gameplay, Graphics, or Audio settings.
Before you begin a mission, you can click any of the items from the
Mission list to view a breakdown of the basic mission details.
Load Free Flight
Exit the mission and resume any saved Free Flight session.
Airport Name
The airport name indicates where the mission begins. To learn more
information about an airport, go to the Map screen, move the pointer
over an Airport icon, and then click the icon to display more details.
Restart Mission
Restart the mission from the beginning.
Load Checkpoint
Restart the mission from the last successfully reached checkpoint.
Aircraft Category
Each aircraft type performs uniquely, making it more or less suitable for
a given mission. Some aircraft are designed for water landings, while
others are known for their agility. The most common types of aircraft
available in Microsoft Flight are the Piston, Trainer, Fixed Wing, and STOL
(Short Takeoff or Landing). Learn more information about each aircraft
in the Hangar.
Exit Mission
Return to the Map screen.
Quit Game
End your Microsoft Flight session.
Estimated Time
The estimated time represents an average completion time for each
mission. Estimates are based on use of the Skip to Waypoint feature.
Tip: If you see a timer to the right of the Heading indicator,
you’re flying a timed mission. You receive additional Experience
Points (XP) for completing the mission quickly.
16
Mission Failed Menu
Mission Debriefing Screen
If you crash during a mission, or simply fail the mission objective, the
Mission Failed menu appears with several options.
Once you complete a mission, a breakdown of your accomplishments
for that mission appears on the Mission Debriefing screen.
Exit Mission
Return to the Map screen.
Experience Point Breakdown
Experience Points you earn for completing the mission appear in the
center of the screen. Compare the points you earned in each category
to the total points available. If you would like to try for more points, you
can fly the mission again later. However, to earn any Experience Points
for flying a repeat mission, you must earn more points than on the
previous attempt.
Restart Mission
Restart the mission from the beginning.
Load Checkpoint
Return to the mission from the last checkpoint you successfully reached
before failing the mission.
Accept
Return to the Map screen.
Play Again
Restart the mission from the beginning and give up any XP or awards
you earned during the previous attempt. You will not have the option of
loading the last checkpoint.
17
Job Board
If you are ready to pick up some professional work, click the Free Flight
icon to display Airport icons on the map. Click one of them, and then
click the Job Board button on the information panel.
An Introduction to Cargo Runs
Avoid overloading the aircraft during cargo runs. You should make sure
you have enough fuel to fly the total distance, but that the total weight
of the cargo and fuel does not exceed the maximum payload capacity
of the aircraft.
Jobs
The Job Board lists a variety of different missions available at a
particular airport. There are various factors that determine which
missions you can fly, including the type of aircraft you own, the size of
the airport, and the current Flight Conditions.
To prepare for a cargo run
1.Click a cargo mission on the Job Board and review the details.
2.Make a note of the total weight of the cargo and the distance of the
mission.
Selecting your Aircraft
3.Click the Select Mission button.
After selecting a mission from the Job Board, you must choose an
aircraft from the Hangar.
4.Select an aircraft from the Hangar.
5.Review available aircraft details or download a new aircraft.
6.If necessary, click the Fuel icon and adjust the fuel level.
You may need to download a new aircraft to complete certain missions.
For example, if you want to transport cargo, you would need to select
an aircraft with an appropriate maximum payload capacity.
7.When you’re ready, press the Start Mission button.
Note: “$100 hamburger” is pilot slang for a short trip to a
nearby airport for bite to eat. It is essentially an excuse for a
quick flight, but some say the term originates from the cost of
renting an aircraft, fueling up, and flying there and back.
Exploring Different Areas
If you download additional areas of the map, more opportunities
open up on the Job Board. Rotate the wheel to zoom out and look for
the Downloadable Content (DLC) icon. Click the icon to preview and
purchase new content.
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Challenges
Challenges test your agility and proficiency as a pilot and refine your
abilities in the cockpit. There are three types of challenges to choose
from: landing challenges, challenge courses, and Gold Rush.
Landing Challenges
In a variety of increasingly difficult challenges, you can prove your
ability to land an aircraft smoothly in less-than-ideal conditions.
Challenge Courses
Put your agility skills to the test as you navigate twisting paths. Perform
aerobatics using a joystick or game pad to earn additional Experience
Points while flying challenge courses.
Gold Rush
Fly over, around, and through scenic vistas in an attempt to collect
as many rings as you can before the timer runs out. Fly Gold Rush
challenges repeatedly to beat your own high score.
To access challenges
1. Click the Activities icon on the Map screen.
2. Click Challenges.
3. Select a challenge.
4. Click Select Mission.
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Career
Your career begins with your first flight. Every time you fly a mission,
complete a job, or fly in a Free Flight session, you become a better pilot.
Profile Roaming
Your Pilot Profile is stored on the Microsoft Flight data server. However,
mission progress and challenge completions do not sync across
computers.
Pilot Profile
Visit your Pilot Profile to view your career stats.
Compare to Other Pilots
Statistics
You can compare your progress to the progress of other players by
selecting the Multiplayer icon from the Map screen or by visiting the
Microsoft Flight website.
As soon as you begin flying, your progress is logged. A record is kept
of information including how many times you have landed, how many
flight hours you have logged, what kind of aircraft you like to fly, and
the total distance you have flown.
In Multiplayer mode, you can click a player’s name to view their
statistics or view their aircraft in flight. Use this feature to locate a pilot
with a similar style or a more advanced pilot who may show you some
tricks of the trade.
To view your flight statistics
1. Click the Pilot Profile icon on the Map screen.
Visit the Microsoft Flight website to compare statistics with your friends.
Log on to the website and select My Flight from the top menu, and then
select Friends. Compare statistics by dragging the icons of your friends
into the columns on the right side of the page.
2. Click the Career tab.
3. Review Flight Statistics and Experience Points data.
Pilot Portrait
From the Career tab, you can select a pilot portrait to represent you in
the game.
Tip: If you want to see how your selected portrait looks while
piloting your aircraft, switch to Flyby view the next time you are
up in the air.
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Aerocaches
Finding Aerocaches
While you are out flying, keep your eyes peeled for hidden objects
called Aerocaches. Aerocaches are represented by a spinning triangular
icon.
In an Aerocache hunt, you are given a hint about the general location of
the Aerocache. An Internet search term is also provided, allowing you to
do more research. Use the hint in conjunction with the Internet search
to identify a more exact location for the Aerocache.
To view a list of Aerocaches, click Activities on the Map screen, then click
Aerocache Hunt. You can then filter available Aerocaches based on the
region in which they’re located.
Acquiring Aerocaches
When you fly in the vicinity of an Aerocache, the Aerocache icon lights
up, and a yellow Point of Interest arrow appears on the screen. Follow
the POI arrow to locate the Aerocache.
Once you locate the Aerocache, fly near it to acquire it.
Tip: If an Aerocache is placed on an object, do not fly directly
into the object. You will crash.
Aerocaches are updated in the game by the Microsoft Flight data server,
which means you must be playing online in order to see them.
When you successfully acquire an Aerocache, a pop-up notification
appears on the screen. After an Aerocache has been acquired, it no
longer appears in the game.
Finding and Acquiring Aerocaches
You earn Experience Points for tracking down and acquiring
Aerocaches. The total XP value of an Aerocache depends on various
factors, including the surrounding terrain and how close you must fly to
acquire it.
Tip: Some Aerocaches are hidden at high altitudes. If you are
having trouble acquiring an Aerocache, make sure you are flying
the correct type of aircraft to reach the necessary altitude.
There are a couple of ways to find Aerocaches in the game: You can
happen upon them while flying, or you can actively search for them in
Aerocache hunts.
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Difficulty Rating
Aerocaches are ranked in difficulty from 1 (least difficult) to 5 (most
difficult). This rating system is based on several factors, including the
Aerocache’s location and surrounding terrain.
Difficulty is also based on the hint and search term provided. Some clues
point you directly to the location of the Aerocache, while others are
more vague.
The final difficulty factor is how close you must fly to the Aerocache in
order to acquire it.
Aerocache Hunts
If you want to search for Aerocaches, click Aerocache Hunt in the
Activities section of the Map screen. Click any of the Aerocaches in the
list for more details.
To perform an Aerocache hunt
1. Click Activities, and then click Aerocache Hunt.
2. Select an Aerocache.
3. Read the hint.
4. Click the Begin Search button and review the search results.
5. Click the Start Hunt button.
6. When you’re ready, click the Take Off button to start flying.
When you start a hunt, an Aerocache sensor appears in the upper-right
corner of the screen. As you get closer to the Aerocache, the signal
strengthens and the sensor fills with yellow.
Tip: If you want to get closer to an Aerocache without flying,
press Esc to display the Pause menu, and then press Map. Drag
your aircraft icon in the direction of the Aerocache, and then
click Fly in the Free Flight menu. If you have gotten closer to the
Aerocache, the inner rings of the sensor should be highlighted in
yellow.
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Free Flight
Free Flight mode allows you to shape your own adventure. Use this
mode to explore the world, fly a variety of different aircraft, and test out
your skills.
Earn Awards
Logging hours in Free Flight mode can earn you awards. To learn more
about available awards, press the Pilot Profile icon on the Map screen,
and then click the Awards tab. Select Free Flight from the Type dropdown menu, and then scroll down to view all of the awards you can earn
in Free Flight mode.
Explore the Skies
Drag your aircraft icon to any area on the map and click Fly in the Free
Flight menu to begin exploring. Click the ring surrounding your aircraft
to rotate it in any direction.
You can earn awards for hunting down Aerocaches and for
accomplishing flight milestones like landing at 100 airports or
accumulating 40 hours of total flight time.
You can also click an Airport icon and choose to start from either in the
air or on the ground.
Tip: Did you know there is an award for landing at 100 airports
in Alaska?
Select an Aircraft
Customize your Free Flight session by selecting an aircraft from the
Hangar. Click the Hangar icon from the Map screen, review your aircraft
options, and then click the Select Aircraft button. Before you exit the
Hangar, be sure to check the fuel level of your aircraft and refuel if
necessary.
Customize Flight Conditions
If you want to mix things up, change the Flight Conditions before you
head out on your next Free Flight adventure. Press Flight Conditions in
the Free Flight section, make your desired changes, and then select a
location on the map to start your adventure.
Practice Landing
Landing is one of the most difficult skills for any pilot to master. Use
Free Flight mode to practice landing.
Tip: Practice landing at night. This will help you learn how to
rely on instruments and runway lights.
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Multiplayer
If you want to fly with other players, take off in Multiplayer mode! Use
Multiplayer mode to show off your aerobatic skills or demonstrate cool
maneuvers. Gather a group and fly in formations, or invite a friend to
go exploring.
Quick Match
Use the Quickmatch button to be matched up with any other players
also currently looking for a match or hosting a public session.
To get started, click the triple aircraft Multiplayer icon on the Map
screen.
Host a Session
Use the Invite Friend button to locate other players, establish a session,
and send game invites.
During multiplayer sessions, an arrow appears next to the name of the
host.
The session host controls the following features:
• Session type
• Flight conditions
• Kicking players from the session
• Game invites
Tip: You must be signed in to Games for Windows – LIVE
in order to host or join a multiplayer session. Check your
connection status by hovering your pointer over the Microsoft
Flight Data Server icon on the Map screen.
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Selecting a Session Type
Player Statistics Panel
From the Multiplayer panel, click the Settings button, and then select a
Session Type from the drop-down menu.
Click a player’s name from the Multiplayer panel to review that player’s
flight statistics. Use this information to compare your own flight
experience.
There are three different types of sessions:
There are three basic types of information available about other pilots:
• Public sessions are open to all players, and anyone can invite
players to join.
• Quick Statistics—A quick tally of a player’s Experience Points,
awards and achievements earned, and Aerocaches acquired.
• Friends Only sessions allow friends to join uninvited. Anyone else
may join by invite only.
• LIVE Profile—Find out more about a player’s progress in Microsoft
Flight and other Games for Windows – LIVE titles.
• Private sessions are limited to only those players who are invited
by the host.
• Aircraft Information—Locate a player’s aircraft on the map or
view the aircraft in the game.
Locating Other Players
From the Multiplayer panel, select any of the players listed in your
session to view details on them, including the region they’re flying in
and their type of craft. To fly with other players in a multiplayer session,
you must all be in the same region.
Target Aircraft
Click the Target Player checkbox to enable a blue Point of Interest arrow
when in flight. The arrow will point to the the location of that player’s
aircraft any time you fly missions or enter Free Flight mode, making
it easier to track and cooperate with other players on the map. Cycle
through connected players in the multiplayer session by using the [ and
] keys.
To join other players in your session, simply click a player’s name to
view their details, then click View On Map. You can also click World
from the Map screen, then click the name of the region other players
are in to instantly travel there.
To start flying once you’ve traveled to a region with other players, drag
your aircraft near another player’s aircraft, then select Fly from the Free
Flight menu.
Locate Friends Online
Select LIVE from the Main menu, and then press the Friends button to
see who is playing online.
Inviting Friends
Want to see your friends fly? Once you’re connected, you can view a
friend’s aircraft during a multiplayer session by clicking the player’s
name, and then clicking View Aircraft.
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To invite friends to join a multiplayer session
Voice Chat
1.Click the Invite Friend button.
If you have a headset with a microphone, you can talk to players in your
multiplayer session.
2.Click the To: button to see a list of players and friends online.
3.Select players from the list.
To set up voice chat
4.Type a message.
1.Go to the Main menu.
5.Press Enter to send the message.
2.Click the LIVE button.
Tip: You can exit Multiplayer mode at any time by clicking the
Leave Match button.
3.Click the Settings button.
4.Click the Voice button.
5.Choose a Voice Playback Device.
Text Chat
6.Click the Voice Recording Device button.
You can text chat with everyone in your multiplayer session or have a
one-on-one conversation (whisper) with another player.
7.Adjust the Recording Volume and Voice Threshold.
8.Click Done.
To chat with the group
Speaking with Other Players
1.Press T on the keyboard.
Once you set up voice chat, you can start a voice chat from the Games
for Windows – LIVE screen or by clicking a player’s gamertag from the
session list.
2.Type your message.
3.Press Enter to send.
To whisper to a friend
To set up a voice chat from the LIVE menu
1.Press T on the keyboard.
1.Click the Private Chat button.
2.Type /w or /whisper.
2.Select a Game Channel.
3.Type the player’s gamertag.
If an active Game Channel does not exist, or if you want to create a
new Game Channel, follow these additional steps
4.Type your message.
5.Press Enter to send.
1.Select an inactive Channel.
6.Type /r or /reply and then your response.
2.Invite players.
If you do not follow step 6, your reply is sent to the entire group.
3.Click Send Message.
Once players accept your invite to chat, click the Game Channel to start
the conversation.
Tip: The first time you send a whisper to a friend, enter steps 2,
3, and 4 on the same line. The line should look like this:
/whisper gamertag message.
Push-to-Chat
Press the Tab key when you want to speak to other players in the Game
Channel.
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Options
You can change Graphics, Gameplay, and Audio settings from the
Options section of the Main menu. Remember to click the Accept
button at the bottom of the screen to save your changes.
Overall Graphics Settings
Graphics
Use the following hardware profiles as a jumping off point for
determining which setting is right for you.
There are three overall setting options to choose from, each designed
to target a specific hardware profile to produce the best possible visual
experience without compromising performance rates.
Change the Graphics settings if you want to correct issues such as
jagged-looking edges and low shadow quality. You can also adjust
monitor resolution and screen size.
• Low—Gaming laptop or a 5-year-old desktop
• Medium—3-year-old desktop
• High—New desktop
Vertical Sync
A “screen tear” occurs when the frame buffer is updated while the
monitor is in the middle of refreshing. Turning on the Vertical Sync
setting may help to reduce the appearance of screen tearing by setting
the frame rate to be a fraction of the refresh rate of your monitor.
Custom Settings
Use the drop-down menu for each setting to customize your visual
experience. This option gives you more control over visual elements, but
it may cause a change in the overall balance between features.
Tip: If you have a slower computer, do not turn on Vertical Sync.
It may actually make the game render even slower frame rates.
There are six basic Graphics settings:
• Shadow Quality
• Sharpness
• Scenery Density
• Scenery Quality
• Texture Quality
• Weather Quality
Note: If the Overall Graphics setting is set to Custom, you have altered
at least one of the default settings.
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Gameplay
Audio
Customize the flight controls, display settings, and camera.
Slide the volume control meters to adjust in-game sound effects, music,
and dialog.
Flight Control Assistance
Game Controls
• Increased Stability—Makes the aircraft easier to control during
flight, with reduced tendencies to stall and spin.
This sections lists keyboard commands for in-game actions such
as changing camera views, pausing the game, walking, turning on
checklists, moving the eyepoint, and skipping to waypoints.
• Smooth Braking—Slows the aircraft at a safer rate to help prevent
accidents.
• Auto Mixture—Automatically adjusts the aircraft’s fuel mixture for
optimal engine performance at higher altitudes.
Aircraft Controls
• Propeller Effects—Reduces the aerodynamic and rotation side
effects of a spinning propeller.
This section lists keyboard commands for aircraft-related actions such as
raising the landing gear, applying rudder, increasing the throttle, leaning
the mixture, and trimming the aircraft.
Display
Display or hide the following in-game features:
• Heads-Up Display (HUD)
• Dialog text
• Point of Interest (POI)
Note: You can hide the POI for Aerocache hunts and Multiplayer mode.
However, you cannot hide the POI arrow for missions.
Camera
Invert camera controls to look down when pointing up or look up when
pointing down, which is the reverse of traditional aircraft controls.
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Key Terms
Aerobatics
Precision maneuvers, such as barrel rolls, loops, hammerhead stalls,
spins, and Cuban eights. Often performed at airshows and competitions,
many of these maneuvers are also part of a military pilot’s training and
can be used in aerial combat. In fact, many basic aerobatic maneuvers
evolved from air-combat tactics invented during World War I.
Cruise Speed
The average speed of an aircraft during straight-and-level flight at
normal power settings.
Drag
The resistance of an object to movement through a fluid. With respect
to aircraft, drag is one of the four fundamental forces in flight. It
opposes thrust. There are two basic types of drag. Parasite drag is
caused by friction. The airplane surface, antennas, landing gear, and
other appendages all cause parasite drag, which increases in proportion
to the square of the aircraft’s velocity. Induced drag is a byproduct of lift.
At the tip of a wing, air moves from the high-pressure area below the
wing to the low-pressure area above. The energy used to create these
vortices manifests itself as induced drag, which increases as airspeed
drops.
“Aerobatics” is also defined in Federal Aviation Regulation 91.303, which
describes restrictions on aerobatic flight. In that section, “aerobatic
flight” means “any intentional maneuver involving an abrupt change in
an aircraft’s attitude, an abnormal attitude, or abnormal acceleration,
not necessary for normal flight.”
Aerocache
Objects hidden on the ground and in the air. Search out their location
to earn Experience Points (XP).
Elevator
A movable control surface located on the horizontal stabilizer of an
aircraft’s tail. Although its name implies that the elevator makes the
airplane climb or descend, it actually controls only the aircraft’s pitch
attitude, that is, the angle of the nose above or below the horizon. The
pilot moves the elevator by applying forward pressure on the control to
decrease pitch attitude and by applying back pressure to increase the
pitch attitude.
Ailerons
Movable control surfaces, usually located near the wing tips, that
control the rolling motion of an aircraft. The pilot deflects the ailerons
by moving the control yoke or stick left and right. The ailerons move
simultaneously in opposite directions. For example, when the pilot
moves the yoke or stick left, the aileron on the left wing moves up,
decreasing the lift on the left wing. At the same time, the right aileron
moves down, increasing the lift on the right wing. The word derives
from the French word aile, meaning “wing.”
Fixed-Wing Aircraft
An aircraft with stable wings that deflect air current to create lift.
Ceiling
The altitude at which an aircraft’s best rate of climb drops to 100 feet
per minute under standard conditions.
Flaps
A hinged portion of an airplane’s wing, generally on the trailing edge,
that can be lowered during takeoff and landing to increase the lift and
drag of the wings. When partially extended, a flap adds lift by increasing
the curvature of the wing. Because flaps extend into the oncoming air,
they also increase drag, helping an aircraft descend steeply without
building up speed. Often confused with ailerons, flaps are not the
primary control surfaces of an airplane.
Climb Out
The portion of a flight between takeoff and the initial cruising altitude.
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Flare
To level off and establish the correct landing attitude just above the
runway prior to landing. A pilot flares by applying back pressure to the
control yoke or stick, which raises the nose of the aircraft. When done
properly, the flare is a smooth, continuous transition from a nose-low,
descending flight path to a nose-high attitude that almost stops the
aircraft’s descent.
Heading
The direction in which the aircraft is pointed, usually in reference to
magnetic north. Because wind pushes an airplane in flight, heading
does not necessarily correspond to the aircraft’s path over the ground,
that is, its track. For example, if you want to fly due east with respect to
the ground and the wind is blowing from the north, you must turn the
aircraft slightly into the wind to correct for drift.
Gs
A measurement of the load factor, or apparent gravity, experienced by
an aircraft during flight. One G represents the force of gravity exerted
on a body at rest. When an aircraft climbs, turns, or accelerates, positive
G forces act upon it. When it descends or decelerates, negative G forces
act upon it.
Instrument Landing System (ILS)
A system of navigation aids and approach lights that provide both
horizontal and vertical guidance to aircraft approaching a runway.
The ILS is the primary precision-approach system in use today around
the world. A typical ILS includes a localizer and a glide slope, as well
as outer, middle, and inner marker beacons. The localizer transmits a
directional signal that provides left/right guidance. The glide slope is
an electronic glide path that defines the proper descent angle to the
runway. Marker beacons indicate distance from the runway.
Glide Ratio
Ratio of horizontal distance traveled per unit of descent. For example,
a sailplane with a 60:1 glide ratio travels 60 meters forward for every 1
meter it descends. A typical single-engine aircraft has a glide ratio of
about 10:1.
Knots
Nautical miles per hour. Abbreviation: kt, kts, or KTS. One nautical mile
(nm or NM) measures 6,076 feet (1,852 meters). This distance is based
on the length of one minute of arc of a great circle—an arc representing
the shortest distance between two points on a globe. One knot equals
about 1.15 statute miles per hour. Therefore, 100 knots equals about
115 mph (185 kilometers per hour), 150 knots equals about 172 mph
(278 kilometers per hour), and 200 knots equals about 230 mph (370
kilometers per hour). All speeds filed on flight plans and for air traffic
control purposes are in knots.
Glide Speed (VBG)
A V-speed indicating the optimal speed for gliding as far as possible
with the engine off.
Glide Slope
The electronic approach path projected as part of an instrument
landing system (ILS). Glide slope transmitters, located near the end of a
runway, send out radio signals to form the proper descent path to the
runway. The angle of the glide slope is usually set at about 3 degrees to
the horizontal.
Note “Knots” by definition assumes “per hour.” You should never state
speed as “knots per hour.”
Low Pass
A brief, low altitude flyover. Pilots perform low passes to notify people
on the ground they’re circling back for a landing. Jet fighter pilots
often perform low pass flyovers during airshows to demonstrate aircraft
control at extremely high speeds.
GUMPS
An acronym pilots use to remember a typical pre-landing checklist.
GUMPS stands for Gas, Undercarriage, Mixture, Propeller, Seat Belts, and
Switches.
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Manifold Pressure Gauge
An instrument that measures the air pressure in the intake manifold of
a piston engine. Usually calibrated in inches of mercury, this instrument
(really a barometer) is used in combination with the tachometer to
set engine power. Most small training aircraft have only a tachometer.
Aircraft with larger engines and aircraft with constant-speed propellers
usually have manifold pressure gauges.
Paint Scheme
Exterior design and color, usually applied to the body, wings, and tail of
the aircraft.
Payload
The total weight of passengers, fuel, and cargo an aircraft can carry.
Precision Approach Path Indicator (PAPI)
A lighting system located beside the runway that visually guides the
pilot onto the glide slope. There are four units, each containing two
lights. Red lights indicate the aircraft is too low and white lights indicate
the aircraft is too high. The proper glide slope is two white lights and
two red lights.
Master Switch
Along with the mixture and propeller, the master switch controls the
battery and the alternator, which comprise an aircraft’s electrical power
system.
Mixture Control
A device for controlling the ratio between fuel and air entering an
engine’s carburetor or fuel injection system. In most aircraft, the mixture
control is a push-pull knob or lever marked in red, usually located to
the right of the throttle.
Rate of Climb
The speed, usually measured in feet per minute, at which an aircraft
is climbing. The term is sometimes stretched to include the rate of
descent. The rate of climb is read on the vertical speed indicator (VSI).
Because aircraft engines operate over a wide range of altitudes, the
pilot must adjust the mixture to produce the most efficient fuel/air
mixture as an airplane climbs into less dense air or descends into more
dense air. A mixture that is too rich contains too much fuel for the
existing conditions and causes the engine to run rough and lose power.
A mixture that is too lean can cause an engine to overheat or can
cause detonation—the sudden, explosive combustion of fuel within the
cylinders.
Rotation Speed (VR)
A V-speed rating that indicates when to pull back on the controller to
rotate the aircraft, causing it to lift off the runway during takeoff.
Rudder
A movable control surface usually mounted on the vertical stabilizer
of the tail. The rudder moves the aircraft about its vertical, or yaw, axis.
It does not, however, turn the airplane. It is used primarily to balance
forces in turns and to counteract yawing motions induced by the
propeller during flight. A pilot moves the rudder by applying pressure
to the left or right rudder pedal. The pedals are mounted on the floor of
the cockpit. In normal maneuvering, the pilot uses simultaneous aileron
and rudder pressures to maintain balanced or coordinated flight.
Nautical Mile
A distance of about 6,076 feet (1,852 meters). The nautical mile is
based on the length of one minute of arc of a great circle. In aviation,
distances and speeds are measured in nautical miles (nm) and nautical
miles per hour (knots).
Stall Speed
A V-speed rating that indicates the lowest possible airspeed needed to
maintain even flight for any given altitude. In many aircraft, the airspeed
indicator features a color-coded system that tells you the stall speed
with the flaps retracted and with the flaps extended for landing.
Nondirectional Radio Beacon
A radio beacon that transmits nondirectional signals in the lowfrequency or medium-frequency band (190–535 kHz). Today it is used
primarily for NDB nonprecision approaches and in conjunction with the
outer marker component of an ILS. An automatic direction finder (ADF)
points to these beacons.
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Stick
A tubular control in some aircraft, usually between the pilot’s knees,
used to control the aircraft about its roll and pitch axis, ailerons, and
elevator respectively (same function as a yoke).
Trainer Aircraft
A type of aircraft used in flight instruction. Trainers are often two-seaters
with tandem controls and simplified instrument panels.
Velocity Speeds (V-Speeds)
A set of suggested velocity speed settings to optimize performance
under a variety of different circumstances.
Taildragger
An aircraft that has its main wheels mounted ahead of the center
of gravity and a small pivoting or steerable wheel supporting the
aft fuselage. There is no nosewheel, as with tricycle-gear aircraft.
Taildraggers were the norm during the early years of aviation and are
sometimes referred to as conventional-gear aircraft. They are trickier
to handle on the ground than tricycle-gear aircraft and require special
training and skill.
V1
Takeoff decision speed. The speed at which it may not be possible to
stop the aircraft on the runway in case of a rejected takeoff (RTO).
V2
Minimum takeoff safety speed for a multi-engine aircraft. The minimum
safe flying speed should an engine fail immediately after takeoff.
Takeoff Run
The distance from the takeoff point to where the wheels lift off the
runway. Pilots often fly into the direction of the wind to reduce the
ground speed and distance needed to lift off the runway.
Visual Approach Slope Indicator (VASI)
A lighting system that indicates an aircraft’s position relative to the
desired glide slope on a particular runway. This system uses two or three
sets of lights on both sides of the runway to visually guide a pilot onto
the glide slope. The pilot is on the glide slope if the first set of lights is
white and the second red. The pilot is flying too high if both sets are
white and flying too low if both sets are red.
Throttle
The cockpit control that most directly determines the power output of
the engine. In a piston engine, the throttle actually controls the amount
of air entering the carburetor or induction system. The carburetor, or
fuel metering system, mixes the appropriate amount of fuel with the air
to create a combustible mixture. When fully “open,” the throttle allows
the maximum amount of air to enter the system to produce maximum
power. When the throttle is “closed,” only a small amount of air enters
the system and the engine produces minimum power.
Very High Frequency Omnidirectional Range (VOR)
A ground-based radio transmitter that sends signals in 360 radials. Some
of these radials define airways, but pilots can track any radial to fly a
specific path over the ground.
Touch-and-Go
A landing operation where the pilot lands the aircraft on the runway
and takes off again without coming to a full stop.
Wingspan
The distance from one wing tip to the other.
Yaw
Movement of an aircraft about its vertical axis, as when the nose turns
left or right. Along with roll and pitch, yaw is one of an airplane’s three
basic movements. The vertical stabilizer and rudder are designed to
control yaw.
Trim
To adjust a movable tab on a control surface, usually the elevator, to
relieve pressure on the flight controls. Trim is necessary because, as
an aircraft changes speed, the amount of air flowing over the control
surfaces varies. Without trim, a pilot would have to hold forward or
back pressure on the yoke or column to maintain a specific airspeed or
pitch attitude. Larger aircraft also have aileron and rudder trim.
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Yoke
The steering wheel-like control connected to the ailerons and elevator.
A pilot turns the yoke to move the ailerons and bank the wings. The
pilot moves the yoke forward and back to move the elevator, which
lowers and raises the nose. Some airplanes have a stick or “joystick”
instead of a control yoke.
© 2012 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.
Microsoft, Bing, the Bing logo, Windows, Windows Live, the Windows logo, Xbox, and Xbox 360 are
trademarks of the Microsoft group of companies.
Anti-Grain Geometry - Version 2.3 Copyright © 2002-2005 Maxim Shemanarev (McSeem).
Uses Autodesk® Scaleform® Copyright © 2012, Autodesk, Inc.
FMOD EX Sound System Copyright © Firelight Technologies, 1994-2012.
Uses Fork Particle Tool & SDK. Copyright © 2012 Fork Particle, Inc.
Incorporates GeoBase® Canadian DEM, Minister of Natural Resources Canada.
Uses Granny Animation. Copyright © 1999-2012 by RAD Game Tools.
Uses Havok™: © Copyright 1999-2012. Havok.com Inc. (or its licensors). All Rights Reserved. See
www.havok.com for details.
Airport and Navigation data supplied by Jeppesen.
Jpeg-6b - This software is based in part on the work of the Independent JPEG Group.
libpng - Version 1.2.18 Copyright © 2000-2002 Glenn Randers-Pehrson.
Lua - Version 5.1 Copyright © 1994–2011 Lua.org, PUC-Rio.
Vector data supplied in part by NAVTEQ.
NVIDIA Texture Tools Copyright © 1997-2008 NVIDIA Corporation.
Uses Peter Uliciansky’s Extreme DXT Compression code
Portions of this software utilize SpeedTree technology. © 2012 Interactive Data Visualization, Inc.
All rights reserved.
Squish - Version 1.3 Copyright © 2006 Simon Brown.
TinyXML - Version 2.0 Original code (2.0 and earlier) copyright © 2000-2002 Lee Thomason (www.
grinninglizard.com)
Uses Xceed WPF Controls Copyright © 2011 Xceed Software Inc.
Zlib - Version 1.2.3, Copyright © 1995-2005 Jean-loup Gailly and Mark Adler.
The ICON Aircraft names, emblems, body designs and logos are trademarks and intellectual
property of ICON Aircraft, Inc. and are used under license to Microsoft Corporation.
The Maule aircraft names, emblems, body designs and logos are trademarks and intellectual
property of Maule Air, Inc. and are used under license to Microsoft Corporation.
The RV family of aircraft names, emblems, body designs and logos are trademarks and intellectual
property of Van’s Aircraft, Inc. and are used under license to Microsoft Corporation.
The Carbon Cub aircraft names, emblems, body designs and logos are trademarks and intellectual
property of CubCrafters, Inc. and are used under license to Microsoft Corporation.
To see credits for people who worked on this game,
go to www.microsoft.com/games/mgsgamecatalog.
X18-05986-03
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