Hardware
By Marco Delgado · · 2 min read
Winctrl (formerly Winwing) has unveiled a new FCU panel for Airbus A320 enthusiasts, featuring haptic feedback on the altitude and heading knobs, backlit buttons, and native MSFS 2024 compatibility. The panel is expected to ship in Q1 2027.
Winctrl, the hardware manufacturer formerly known as Winwing, has announced its latest high-fidelity cockpit component: a replica FCU (Flight Control Unit) panel for the Airbus A320 family. The panel, which is designed to sit atop a desk or integrate into a home cockpit, features realistic haptic feedback on the ALT and HDG knobs, providing tactile detents that mimic the real aircraft's push-pull functionality. The buttons are backlit with adjustable brightness and include the full suite of A320 FCU functions: SPD/MACH, HDG/TRK, ALT, V/S, and the autopilot engagement buttons.
According to Winctrl, the FCU panel is natively compatible with Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, including the Fenix A320 and the default Asobo A320neo. It uses a plug-and-play USB interface and requires no additional drivers, though a companion software utility allows for custom button mapping and firmware updates. The panel also supports X-Plane 12 via a third-party plugin, though Winctrl notes that full functionality may vary depending on the aircraft add-on.
The announcement comes as Winctrl continues to expand its product line under its new brand identity. The company has been aggressively targeting the serious simmer market with products like the Orion throttle quadrant and the Skywalker rudder pedals. The FCU panel is expected to retail for around $349.99, with pre-orders opening in December. Shipping is slated for Q1 2027.
For Airbus fans, this is a welcome addition to the hardware ecosystem, which has traditionally been dominated by Boeing-style equipment. The haptic feedback feature, in particular, sets it apart from competitors like Skalarki's FCU, which lacks tactile response. If Winctrl can deliver on its promises, this could become a must-have for anyone flying the Fenix A320 in MSFS 2024.
Tags: Winctrl, FCU, Airbus A320, Hardware, MSFS 2024