B429 NextGen

# B429 NextGen – Version 1.1.3 ## Major Update – New Custom Autopilot (AFCS) This update introduces one of the most significant improvements to the B429 NextGen: a custom-built helicopter Automatic Flight Control System (AFCS), powered by a dedicated WASM module. Unlike the default MSFS autopilot, this system has been specifically designed to interact with helicopter flight controls. ### New Autopilot Features - Custom WASM-based autopilot with direct cyclic control. - ATT Mode: Attitude stabilization. - HDG Mode: Automatic heading hold and heading selection. - NAV Mode: GPS and VOR navigation tracking. - APPR Mode: Approach guidance with localizer/GPS tracking and glideslope capture logic. - ALT Mode: Automatic altitude hold. - VS Mode: Vertical speed adjustments in 100 ft/min increments. - Automatic autopilot engagement when selecting a flight mode in suitable flight conditions. - Automatic disengagement under unsafe flight conditions or when the pilot takes back control. - Compatibility with standard MSFS autopilot keyboard and joystick assignments. - Dedicated AFCS interface integrated into the copilot's display, with detachable window support. - Real-time autopilot status, diagnostics and automatic flight-data logging. Important: The AFCS is intended for forward flight, not hovering. Collective control remains the pilot's responsibility. ## Flight Model Improvements - Refined pitch behavior for improved cruise stability. - Adjusted cyclic response and longitudinal stability parameters. - Updated reference cruise speed to 150 KTAS. - Updated VNE reference to 155 knots. ## Cockpit and Camera Improvements - Revised default pilot view with improved instrument-panel visibility. - Improved downward quick-view angle for better visibility through the forward window. - Added a dedicated right-side hoist-door camera. - Retained and refined pilot, copilot and landing camera configurations. ## Aircraft Configuration - Corrected ICAO aircraft type designation to B429. - Updated displayed endurance to 4.5 hours. - Improved package loading priority and dependency configuration. ## Checklist Improvements - Introduced a dedicated Bell 429 checklist. - Includes preflight, engine start, takeoff preparation, cruise, single-engine emergency, approach and shutdown procedures. - Replaces outdated checklist references inherited from the original aircraft. ## Package Optimization - Removed unnecessary duplicated configuration files. - Improved compatibility with future updates to the original jXt aircraft by reducing unnecessary file overrides. ## MSFS 2024 Compatibility Notice MSFS 2020 is the primary development platform for this modification. Although the original Bell 429 by jXt Simulations is compatible with both MSFS 2020 and MSFS 2024, full compatibility of the B429 NextGen modification with MSFS 2024 has not yet been verified. In particular, the new WASM-based autopilot and its interaction with helicopter flight controls may behave differently between simulator versions. There are currently no confirmed incompatibilities, but correct operation in MSFS 2024 cannot be guaranteed. Feedback from MSFS 2024 users is welcome and will help improve future compatibility. --- B429 NextGen by HeliRomandy Requires the original Bell 429 by jXt Simulations.