Orbx releases PNG Highland Bush Strips Pack 2 for Microsoft Flight Simulator

Orbx has officially released the second installment of its PNG Highland Bush Strips series for Microsoft Flight Simulator. This new pack follows up on the first entry released last year and adds seven new bespoke airstrips to the rugged terrains of Papua New Guinea’s highlands.

Pack 2 of the Highland Bush Strips takes the adventure to new heights, quite literally, with airstrips ranging from the lofty TEP TEP airstrip sitting over 7,000 feet above sea level, to the coastal strip at GUHU, which lies at an elevation of approximately 3,000 feet. The selection of airstrips in this release includes AYSP Sapmanga, AYIS Isan, AYTP Tep Tep, AYBC Bambu, AYNA Nankina, AYNH Nahu, and AYGH Guhu.

For bush pilots looking for a challenge, Orbx’s PNG Highland Bush Strips Pack 2 offers a perfect blend of difficulty and beauty. With an appropriate aircraft like the Pilatus Porter or the Kodiak 100, simmers can undertake a breathtaking journey from Sapmanga to Guhu, touching down at all seven new airstrips. This route requires skillful navigation over peaks surpassing 11,000 feet and managing steep descents into picturesque valleys – a true test of short takeoff and landing skills!

Orbx has committed to a high level of detail and realism in this expansion. The pack features over 100 unique models, all with PBR textures that incorporate advanced weathering techniques to reflect the natural, rugged environment of Papua New Guinea. Each model is also optimized with LOD techniques to ensure smooth performance without sacrificing visual quality.

Orbx has modeled the airstrips to mirror their real-world counterparts as closely as possible, including accurate terrain profiles and runway elevations. Approaches and departures have been designed to account for vegetation, eliminating the need for pilots to dodge large trees on final approaches. Additionally, for simulation purists who enjoy starting their flights “cold and dark,” parking positions have been added to each airstrip.

Further enhancing the authenticity of this scenery, the surrounding villages have been revamped with more realistic building models, replacing the default autogen structures to better represent the local architecture. The pack also addresses areas where default scenery might appear sparse by adding patches of vegetation.

Orbx’s PNG Highland Bush Strips Pack 2 is another invitation to experience some of the most challenging and scenic flying in the world. It’s available now from Orbx and is priced at around $12.00 USD.