X-Plane 12
Laminar Research Updates X-Plane 12 to 12.1.3 with Improved ATC and Weather
By Aleksei Volkov · · 2 min read
X-Plane 12.1.3 is now available, bringing enhancements to the default ATC, new cloud rendering, and fixes for the FMS in default aircraft. The update also improves VR performance and adds support for newer Navigraph navdata.
Laminar Research has released X-Plane 12.1.3, a significant update that addresses community feedback on ATC and weather. The default ATC now includes more realistic phraseology, better SID/STAR assignment, and improved handling of go-arounds. Cloud rendering has been overhauled with volumetric clouds that react more dynamically to lighting conditions, reducing the 'cotton ball' effect.
The update also fixes several FMS issues in default aircraft like the Boeing 737-800 and Airbus A330-300, including LNAV path smoothing and VNAV descent planning. VR performance sees a 10-15% improvement through optimized rendering pipelines, and the sim now supports Navigraph's latest navdata cycle (AIRAC 2610) natively.
Third-party developers have welcomed the changes. ToLiss confirmed that their A320neo and A340-600 are fully compatible, and FlightFactor is testing their 767-400ER with the new update. Laminar also teased that work on X-Plane 12.2 continues, with a focus on improved lighting and a new scenery gateway. The update is available now via the X-Plane installer.
Tags: X-Plane 12, Laminar Research, ATC, Weather, Update