Other than being an excellent example of a fully working aeronautical simulator that allows you to experience the dizzying heights of intricate flight mechanics, Microsoft Flight Simulator is also a great platform for modders to work their magic. We didn't even know we wanted to fly the oldest flyable plane in the game, but here now we know we can, there is no stopping us.
First spotted by PC Gamer, one modder for Microsoft Flight Sim has worked hard to put the Blériot XI in the title and it's pretty fly for an old guy. Wing42 on YouTube has a trailer for the modification and it's so professional we can't quite believe this isn't from Microsoft itself.
We had no idea of this plane's history, but the channel has enlightened us. The description of the video teaches that "the Blériot XI, by engineer and aviator Louis Blériot, was the first "flying machine" to cross the English Channel in 1909. Wing42 brings this glorious machine into Microsoft Flight Simulator!
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"Included in the add-on are two different variants that represent different stages of development. The early 1909 variant is powered by an Anzani 25 HP 2-stroke engine, that barely gets this aircraft airborne. Take up flight with this bird if you're seeking a proper challenge!
"The Gnome-powered Blériot XI uses a Gnome Omega 7 engine, which is a 50 HP rotary engine. This version represents a later development of this fantastic aircraft and flies much easier and more comfortable."
It's gorgeous of course, and if you're into history at all, getting this mod is a bit of a no brainer. It might not be as fast or as agile as, well, pretty much any of the aircraft in the base game but perhaps reenacting the flight over the English Channel is your idea of fun.
Featured Image Credit: Microsoft / StudioTopics: Microsoft Flight Simulator, News