Hardware
Winctrl (Formerly Winwing) Unveils A320 FCU Panel with Force Feedback
By David Park · · 2 min read
Winctrl has announced a new Airbus A320 Flight Control Unit (FCU) replica featuring force feedback and integrated backlighting. The panel aims to provide unprecedented tactile realism for Airbus simmers, with compatibility for MSFS 2024 and X-Plane 12.
Winctrl, the hardware brand formerly known as Winwing, has revealed its latest high-fidelity replica: an Airbus A320 Flight Control Unit (FCU) with force feedback. This new unit is designed to replicate the exact feel of the A320's FCU, including the detents and resistance of the altitude, heading, and speed selectors. The force feedback mechanism simulates the motorized movement of the real aircraft's autopilot controls, providing tactile feedback when modes engage or change.
The FCU features dual rotary encoders with push-pull functionality, backlit buttons with customizable RGB LEDs, and a high-resolution OLED display for altitude, heading, and speed readouts. It connects via USB-C and includes native support for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 and X-Plane 12, with profiles for popular Airbus add-ons like the Fenix A320 and ToLiss A320. Winctrl has also released a configuration tool that allows users to map custom commands and adjust feedback strength.
According to Winctrl, the FCU is built with aircraft-grade aluminum and employs magnetic hall-effect sensors for long-term reliability. The force feedback system is driven by a custom motor controller that can simulate the resistance of the real unit, enhancing immersion during autopilot engagements and mode changes. Pricing and availability are expected to be announced at FSExpo 2027, but early units may ship in Q1 2027.
This announcement signals Winctrl's continued push into the high-end cockpit builder market, directly competing with established players like Skalarki and CockpitPhD. For Airbus enthusiasts, this FCU could be a game-changer in terms of realism and tactile feedback.
Tags: Winctrl, A320, FCU, Force Feedback, Hardware