Tupolev Tu-154M Development Update #01

Tupolev Tu-154M Development Update Hello everyone, First of all, thank you. The response to the Tupolev Tu-154M since FSExpo has been incredible. We have received a huge amount of interest, wishes, suggestions, references, and personal stories from the community, and we truly appreciate every bit of it. The Tu-154M is not just another aircraft in development for us. For Anatolii, it has always been a deeply personal project, shaped by family history and a lifelong connection to the type. Over time, it has become something very special for the whole team as well. The more time we spend with this aircraft, the more it reveals. It is technically fascinating, operationally unique, and full of details that make it very different from almost anything else in the simulator. Our goal is therefore not simply to recreate the shape of a Tu-154M, but to capture as much of its character, complexity, and atmosphere as possible.

Systems Systems development is now in its final stretch. One of the remaining major items is the implementation of the EFB. Of course, the real Tu-154M did not operate with a modern electronic flight bag. However, for simulator use, an EFB is an important tool for load planning, performance calculations, configuration options, and general usability. The goal is to support the simulation experience without taking away from the aircraft’s authentic three-crew character. We have also received many questions about navigation options. The Tu-154M will include the original Doppler navigation system for those who want to fully embrace the authentic operation of the aircraft. This is especially important for sim pilots who enjoy the classic workflow of a three-man cockpit and want to experience the aircraft as closely as possible to its original environment. Alongside the Doppler system, we will also integrate the KLN90B as a more familiar navigation option. In addition, we are currently deciding between our own in-house GNS-XLS and the MSFS native UNS system. We will share more on that once the decision is final.

3D Model In parallel, the 3D model continues to receive a lot of attention. One important area is the tail section, which now features the authentic Tu-154 trim system. On the real aircraft, the entire horizontal stabilizer/elevator unit moves as one. At stronger trim deflections, this creates a distinctive edge between the elevator unit and the forward upper tail section — a small but very…