Parallel 42 has released Cheat River Island for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, bringing one of West Virginia’s most unique airstrips to the new sim on both PC and Xbox.
Located on a small island along the Cheat River near Rowlesburg, this private grass strip is known in the real world for its seasonal fly-ins and picturesque Appalachian setting. The new MSFS 2024 rendition marks Parallel 42’s third fully native scenery for the platform, rebuilt from the ground up using the simulator’s latest environmental and rendering tools.
According to the team, the scenery was released just in time for the Appalachian fall season and aims to capture the natural atmosphere of the area, from river reflections to the region’s changing colors. Parallel 42 says it worked to replicate every “reflection, ripple, and rustle of the season,” allowing simmers to experience the rich autumn palette at any time of year.
Beyond the airstrip itself, the package expands the surrounding environment with interactive details and ground activities. Pilots can camp by the river using the //42 Campout Utility, explore over six miles of drivable trails with the //42 Juice Goose UTV, or even ride a working zipline. The area also features animated wildlife, environmental sounds, and “micro-scenes” at local spots like a bar and nearby lake.
The developers describe Cheat River Island as a relaxed but challenging backcountry destination. The 1,704-foot grass runway requires approaches to Runway 30 and departures from Runway 12 due to the island’s slope and valley terrain. Expect a narrow, non-direct approach with terrain-induced turbulence, limited visibility, and even the occasional wildlife hazard. Sounds fun!
Key features:
- All-new, fully native product for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024.
- High fidelity 3D Models & MSFS 2024 Enhanced Textures.
- Custom 3D library of on-ground assets built for MSFS 2024.
- Grounds enhanced with TrailBlazer technology for realistic terrain shaping.
- Full support for MSFS 2024 dynamic fauna and ambient world systems.
- Custom vegetation assets tuned for accurate regional variety and lighting response.
- Custom night lighting and sounds at main building.
Parallel 42 has also teased an upcoming SayIntentions.AI integration for the scenery, which the developers say will “change the way you fly here.”
Cheat River Island is available now for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 on PC and Xbox through the Parallel 42 website, priced at $12.00 USD.
