The VSKYLABS 902X-NTR simulation add-on for X-Plane flight simulator is an independent VSKYLABS development effort which is not related nor affiliated with 'MD Helicopters' or any other company or entity.
PROJECT STATUS
Actively maintained and validated for the current X-Plane 12 release.
MANUALS
Pilot’s Operating Handbook (POH)
PROJECT HISTORY
AVAILABILITY
SUPPORT & DISCUSSION
VSKYLABS Support Forum at X-Plane.org
MD Helicopters MD-902 Explorer (simulation reference)
Light twin-engine utility helicopter of U.S. origin, first flown on 18 December 1992. The type is distinguished by its NOTAR anti-torque system and is powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW200-series engines. Typical quoted performance includes a cruise speed of 131 knots, range of 328 nautical miles, and maximum operating altitude of 14,000 feet.
Role: Light twin-engine utility helicopter
Manufacturer: MD Helicopters
Country of origin: United States
First flight: 18 December 1992
Configuration: NOTAR (No Tail Rotor) anti-torque system
Crew: 1-2
Passengers: Up to 6
Powerplant: Two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW207E turboshaft engines, rated at 477 kw (640 shp) each, derated for reliability and safety to: Take-off 410 kw (550 shp) Max Continuous Power 373 kw (500 shp).
Maximum cruise speed: 131 knots
Range: 328 nautical miles
Maximum operating altitude: 14,000 ft
Maximum gross weight: 6,500 lb internal / 6,900 lb external
SIMULATION ENGINEERING NOTES
The VSKYLABS 902X-NTR was developed as part of VSKYLABS' educational, experimental, and engineering initiatives. This project aims to deliver a highly engineered, physics-based simulation of a twin-turbine No Tail Rotor helicopter test-bed.
To create a plausible NTR helicopter simulation, VSKYLABS focused on the MD-902 as a general reference, leveraging its technical aspects and system architecture as a baseline for a typical twin-turbine No-Tail-Rotor helicopter design.
While the VSKYLABS 902X-NTR is inspired by and derived from the MD-902's real-world specifications, it is not an exact replica nor an official simulation of the MD-902.
In line with the project’s goals and inherent development constraints, the VSKYLABS 902X-NTR features several differences from the MD-902.
The project includes two separate variants:
- VSL 902X-NTR - Standard.
- VSL 902eX-NTR - Extended Range variant.
The Extended-Range variant includes two external fixed pressurized fuel tanks, extending range to up to ~800 NM.
PROJECT HIGHLIGHT
- VSKYLABS ‘Test-Pilot’ Project:
- A fully operational, physics based, No-Tail-Rotor helicopter simulation with functional main systems.
- Authentic Engine Control Modes:
- Operate engines in OFF, IDLE, FLY, and TRAIN modes (auto throttle mode applies in Early Access).
- Advanced, Physics-Based No-Tail-Rotor System:
- Dedicated NTR Fan Simulation: Dynamic thrust response.
- Tail-Boom Thrust Vectoring Nozzle.
- Coanda Effect Simulation: Dynamically modeled to reflect real-world behavior (takes over ~60% of the anti-torque forces in hover).
- VSCS (Vertical Stabilizers Control System): Yaw-damping stabilization in cruise.
- Cockpit Configuration:
- Fully featured LR G1000 with a custom digital annunciation panel.
- IIDS (Integrated Instrument Display System): digital cockpit for enhanced situational awareness (Simplified version).
- VSCS Indicators.
- Essential Analog Instruments: Airspeed, Altitude, VSI, Radar-Alt (with aural warning), and a clock.
- VSKYLABS ‘Digi-Slip’ LED Indicator for enhanced yaw monitoring.
- Flight Deck Enhancements:
- 3D HUD: Optimized for VR & 2D, with accurate velocity vector references.
- Avitab Compatibility: Integrated for additional functionality.
- Full VR Engineering:
- Designed for immersive experience.
- Ideal for beginners & experts:
- The 902X-NTR is easy to operate, has a straight forward engine start-up and engine-control system. It is docile and predictable, allowing beginner helicopter sim-pilots to fly and operate it with reasonable effort.
- Cockpit Builders Heaven:
- Assign all aircraft switches, knobs, and interactions via a dedicated X-Plane 12 assignment layer.
- Comprehensive Support:
- VSKYLABS Support Forums - Professional assistance for aircraft operation and X-Plane technical support.
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