The long-awaited expansion to the beloved “study-level” Airbus A320 from Fenix is finally ready, the Airbus A319 and A321 for Microsoft Flight Simulator. This new release brings (almost) all members of the A320 family together with the utmost attention to detail.
Fenix has rolled out the A319 and A321 components as a double-pack, rather than individual releases. Those who have yet to buy the Fenix Airbus A320 (which functions as a foundation for the new expansions) also now have the option to get them rolled all into one bundle at a temporary discount.
The gang’s all here
Just like in real life, each variant of the A320 here in Fenix’s rendition handles a little differently from one another. They’re all built from the same design with the same powerplant, but with changes to fuselage length and weight.
The differences in flight characteristics due to these variables have been taken into account and emulated in Microsoft Flight Simulator.
For instance, the A319 can land and take-off in far less time and distance than the A320 and A321, particularly if it’s empty. Thus, simmers are invited to try their hand at learning the intricacies of each model.
Combing over the small details
In addition to the flight modelling, the Fenix team has also taken smaller details into account such as once again providing a high-quality virtual cabin environment, with faithfully recreated textures and materials for each object and element.
The soundscape has been revamped in a recent update and improved upon with this release to provide a more authentic-sounding experience both inside and outside the aircraft.
The new A319 and A320 double-pack come with the option of either flying models with CFM or IAE engines; a difference that’s reflective of real-world ops.
Top quality, top dollar
Now, here comes the fun part. How much can you expect to batter your wallet from jumping on this purchase? Well, quite a bit, to say the least.
Once again, the Fenix Airbus A320 base package is needed before even considering the A319 and A321 double-pack. Fenix is currently offering all three for first-time customers as one big bundle for an eye watering £79.99 ($103.61 USD.) When this limited time sale expires, the MSRP will be £89.98 ($116.55 USD.)
Fenix has been hailed for its top-notch quality, but clearly this is a “you get what you pay for” situation!
For those who already own the A320, the A319 & A321 expansion can be purchased standalone for £39.99 ($51.80.) Will the “Baby Bus” that is the A318 ever join the clan to complete the set? Time will tell.
On the flip side of the coin, in terms of aircraft manufacturer and release strategy, PMDG rolled out the Boeing 737NG family in chunks just like what Fenix has now done with the A320. With that, the 737-600,-700,-800 and -900 are all available as standalone purchases for varying prices.
Consequently, PMDG’s offerings are more flexible for the customer. Which strategy is better? Well, that’s up for the community to debate.
Check out more sim content:
PMDG 777-300 for Microsoft Flight Simulator takes flight | Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 launches in November | Reflecting on Microsoft Flight Simulator in its final year as the frontrunner
