After spending some time cruising around the state of Florida I am ready to give you my impression and review of the Airbus FCU by Winwing.

Introduction

Today, we’re diving into a detailed review of the WinWing Airbus 320 Flight Control Unit (FCU). I’m excited to share my thoughts on this product, including its pros, cons, and whether it’s the right fit for you.

Overview

WinWing sent me their Airbus 320 FCU for review and I was one of the early users who received it. This product is priced at $99 USD in its special promotional pricing, later to go up to $129 USD and is similarly priced in other markets around the world. At the time of writing this article the label “pre-order” is still noted on their Winwings website as the product is being shipped as they manufacture them, so keep that in mind if you decide to purchase it might.

The Unboxing and Setup

The packaging was appropriate and unboxing was straightforward, and everything needed was included. Inside the box you get the following:

• Flight Control Unit
• Left and right mounting brackets
• USB-C data cable
• Simple toolkit (Allen wrench)
• Accessories kit (various screws for mounting, long and short)
• Double-sided adhesive dots
  

Time to Setup!

To get started, you’ll need to download and install the SimApp Pro software available on the Winwing website, which is required to update the firmware for the Airbus FCU. Here’s a quick setup guide:

1. Unplug all other flight sim hardware from your PC.
2. Plug the FCU into a USB port directly on the motherboard.
3. Run SimApp Pro and update the firmware.
4. Reconnect your other hardware.
5. Make sure SimApp Pro is running.
6. Start Microsoft Flight Simulator and the FCU should be ready to use once you’re on the ramp or runway with the appropriate aircraft.
   

Key Features

• Compatibility: Works with Fenix and FlyByWire Airbus 320 in Microsoft Flight Simulator, and with X-Plane 11 and 12 and Aero Fly FS 3 and 4.
• Realistic Functionality: The FCU mimics the real aircraft’s controls, including push-pull functions for altitude, heading and nav mod, and climb rate. This is the BEST part of the products and it tactically feels really good and solid.
• Scale: The unit is a 1:1 scale replica, providing a realistic feel. I love having replica size and style hardware for my setup.
• Build Quality: Made with high-quality materials, including a robust USB-C connection.
• Adjustable Backlight: The backlit displays adjust automatically based on game settings.
• FULL Autopilot Panel: Winwing has plans to create the full Left and Right Glare wing as well as the Left and Right EFIS!
  
  

Pros

• Realistic Scale and Functionality: Enhances immersion with its true-to-life design and operation.
• Great Value: At $99 USD, it offers excellent bang for the buck and competes well with the rest of the market, in fact I say it beats the other options at this price point.
• Instant Response: The backlit displays and controls respond immediately to inputs in Microsoft Flight Simulator. I found virtually ZERO lag between the sim and my inputs as well as the display panels match exactly what is showing in the cockpit.
• Multiple Mounting Options: You can custom mount this into your home office, a custom A320 Garage build or an aluminum 8020 profile if you wish. The included hardware allows for several ways to mount this and I wish more manufactures though of the different ways users might mount their product.
  

Cons

• USB hardware removal: Updating the firmware requires unplugging other peripherals, which can be cumbersome for me but I am not sure this is a big deal for most people. I run a complex setup and have multiple USB hubs and hardware and if every manufacturer had me unplug all other hardware before updating I would find it quite tedious, ALTHOUGH very simple and a non issue for most.
• Size: The 1:1 scale might be too large for some setups, though it fits well on standard desks and sim pits. In comparison the Mini FCU is 20% smaller and and while it looks like a quality build it is currently also in preorder and almost 3 times the price!
• Delayed Shipping: Currently available for pre-order, so there might be a wait time before you receive the product. Winging has stated they are working to deliver all ordered units so be patient if you have placed your order!
  

Conclusion – Who Is This For?

Overall, the WinWing Airbus 320 FCU is an impressive piece of hardware that offers great value for its price which is pretty hard to compete with when you look at the alternatives. Whether you’re a seasoned flight simmer or new to WinWing’s products, this FCU is a fantastic addition to any Airbus setup. It’s particularly beneficial for pilots looking to enhance their training with realistic hardware at an excellent price.

Flight Sim Expo 2024 Vegas

If you’re planning to attend Flight Sim Expo 2024 in Las Vegas, let me know! I’ll be there and would love to connect with fellow simmers and enthusiast.

https://flightsimexpo.com/

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If you have any questions or need more information, feel free to reach out in the comments. And if you’re considering picking up the WinWing Airbus 320 FCU, I’ll leave a link below where you can find it.

https://winwingsim.com/

If you are interested in the full detailed video review click below!