X-Plane 12
X-Plane 12.2.0 Beta Adds Improved ATC, New Weather Radar API for Developers
By Emma Thornton · · 2 min read
Laminar Research has released X-Plane 12.2.0 beta, introducing a rewritten ATC system with better SID/STAR handling and a new weather radar API. The update also includes performance optimizations and fixes for turbulence modeling.
Laminar Research has announced the release of X-Plane 12.2.0 beta, the latest update to its flagship simulator. The headline feature is a completely rewritten ATC system, which now supports more realistic SID/STAR assignments and improved vectoring during approach. According to the release notes, the new ATC engine uses a more sophisticated routing algorithm that takes into account aircraft performance and weather, resulting in fewer unrealistic instructions and better separation.
The update also introduces a new weather radar API, allowing third-party developers to integrate custom radar displays with X-Plane's weather engine. This is expected to benefit high-fidelity airliner add-ons like the ToLiss A320neo and FlightFactor 777, which can now render more accurate precipitation returns. Additionally, Laminar has made several performance optimizations, including improved CPU multi-threading and reduced VRAM usage, which should help with frame rates in dense scenery areas.
Turbulence modeling has also been refined, with the sim now better simulating the effects of terrain and convective activity. Pilots flying in mountainous regions or near thunderstorms should notice more realistic bumps and handling characteristics. The beta is available now via the X-Plane installer, and Laminar encourages users to report bugs on its official forums.
For the X-Plane community, this update represents a significant step forward in both realism and developer support. The new ATC system in particular addresses a long-standing weakness, and the weather radar API opens up new possibilities for add-on developers. A final release is expected before the end of the year.
Tags: X-Plane 12, Laminar Research, ATC, Weather Radar, Beta