X-Plane developer Ben has revealed some news about the new version X-Plane 10.30 on his blog again. There are two main points: improvements to distant visibility, and significant upgrades to navigation instruments for small aircraft.

Regarding distant visibility, the 64-bit version will display 12 DSFs (Distribution Scenery Format) simultaneously instead of the current 6. This will significantly improve the cockpit view during high-altitude flight.

Regarding navigation instruments, this is a truly major update. A large number of features have been added to the existing Garmin 430, making it very close to the actual flight navigation equipment. This is really something to look forward to. Specifically, the current version of the 430 only has the function to fly directly to a specified Waypoint. In 10.30, it will support:

Directly inputting and editing flight plans; Waypoint information will be included in a global database;

Loading and saving flight plan files in FMS format;

Alerts when in VFR in special airspace;

Obtaining nearby airport information to facilitate preparing alternate airports;

Automatic calculation of the Descent point and descent rate;

ATC frequencies for nearby airports;

An Approach method database is included, and Approach methods can also be written into the flight plan;

Support for localizers and CDI precision during non-precision Approach;

Missed Approach instructions when the Runway is not visible at minimums.

This is all really wonderful, looking forward to the early release of version 10.30!

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