X-Plane 12
X-Plane 12.2.0 Update Brings New ATC System, Improved Weather Radar
By Aleksei Volkov · · 2 min read
Laminar Research's latest X-Plane 12 update overhauls the default ATC with better SID/STAR handling and adds a functional weather radar. It also includes performance optimizations and new default aircraft updates.
Laminar Research has released X-Plane 12.2.0, a substantial update that addresses two long-standing community requests: a more capable default ATC and a working weather radar. The new ATC system, built on a redesigned flight plan parser, now correctly interprets SID and STAR procedures, including altitude and speed constraints. It can handle complex clearances and will vector aircraft for approach based on current winds. While not intended to replace VATSIM or IVAO, it provides a significant improvement for offline IFR flying. The weather radar, available in default aircraft like the Citation X and the 737-800 (via the default FMS), now displays precipitation intensity based on the new volumetric weather engine. It also features a ground clutter simulation and tilt control.
Performance-wise, 12.2.0 includes optimizations to the rendering engine, particularly for multi-monitor setups and VR. Users can expect a 10-15% increase in frame rates in dense scenery areas, depending on hardware. The update also adds new particle effects for engine smoke and contrails, and refines the flight model for helicopters. Several default aircraft have received updates: the Cessna 172 now has a more accurate G1000 simulation, and the Airbus A330-300 benefits from improved fly-by-wire logic. The MD-82 has also been updated with a more realistic autopilot.
Third-party developers have been quick to adopt the new features. ToLiss has announced that its A320neo will leverage the new weather radar API in a future update, and FlightFactor is working on integrating the improved ATC logic into its 757 and 767 FMS. Laminar also notes that the new ATC system is still a work in progress and will receive further refinements in 12.2.1. The update is available now via the X-Plane installer.
Tags: X-Plane 12, Laminar Research, ATC, Weather Radar, Update