Welcome to the third episode of our Development Update series. In this episode, we'll delve into the features and mechanics that have evolved since our first demo. As you may have already heard, our release date is set for 19th October 2023, so you'll soon be able to explore everything firsthand! In this update, we'll touch upon changes on the apron as well as vehicle-related aspects. However, our primary focus will be on mechanics, as there will be an upcoming episode dedicated entirely to vehicles. Let's dive right in.
New Mechanics in Baggage Handling on Keflavik & Warsaw
At major airports, such as those in Warsaw and Keflavik, luggage handling systems stand out not just in terms of size and scale but also in their advanced equipment.
Consistent with our design philosophy, our game airports are meticulously modeled on their real-world counterparts, replicating both their look and functionality. Whenever a flight is prepped for departure, suitcases materialize on specialized carts. These carts glide along a rail system suspended from the ceiling. An advanced computer system allocates specific spots on conveyor chutes, each identified by a unique number. Digital screens at each chute display the relevant flight number, directing where the suitcases should be dispatched. These are then collected by the in-game crew (the player) and loaded onto the designated aircraft. For chute number details, players can consult their in-game tablet by selecting the appropriate plane number.
Interestingly, at larger airports, baggage claim coincides with where luggage is offloaded from the plane to the terminal. However, passengers here retrieve their bags from a standard conveyor system.
Incorporating Cargo Interiors into Both Aircraft
From our earlier materials and our inaugural demo, players might remember that luggage was automatically received. Upon interaction with the crew, it was sequentially set on the pre-prepared loading belt. Following valuable feedback from our community and internal deliberations, we've revamped this process. Our aim in AirportSim is to authentically represent the tasks of ground handlers, especially since baggage management is integral to their role.
With our updates, the real challenge begins once the cargo doors swing open. For unloading, players must venture inside the hold to retrieve every piece of luggage. During the loading phase, when dealing with a significant volume of bags, careful and strategic arrangement is essential to ensure everything fits neatly.
Bypass Pin Introduced for Both Aircraft
In our initial demo, once the aircraft landed, users were tasked with deploying cones and positioning wheel chocks to stabilize the plane and enhance safety. Recognizing the importance of comprehensive safety measures, we've incorporated an additional feature: the bypass pin. Now, as you ensure the aircraft's security and gear up for pushback, attending to this crucial detail is a must.
Enhanced Gate Door Animations
In AirportSim, we give paramount importance to passengers. From the 2.0 version of our initial demo, players can observe passengers seamlessly exiting the terminal through beautifully animated gate doors, a feature that's consistent across all airports.
We recognize the profound impact of intricate details in providing a richer gaming experience. These nuances immerse players deeper into the game's realism. Now, rather than passengers merely appearing near the doors, they're brought to life with a complete animation that showcases them walking through the doors as they open.
Introducing Stackable Cones
In our debut demo, players were limited to handling just one cone at a time, a restriction that considerably prolonged the task. With our newest update, players can now efficiently stack up to five cones and subsequently place them either individually or collectively on the ground.
Draggable Trolleys Feature Introduced
Since updating the trailers in our recent demo to include a steerable front axle, we recognized the necessity for manual trolley maneuverability. Players can now intuitively grip the trolley's frame to pull it, emulating real-world practices. This enhancement streamlines the process of linking multiple trailers together.
Introducing Fresh Aircraft Liveries
Airports without planes are unimaginable; they truly are the heart and soul of such locations. With that in mind, we've been steadfast in our commitment to ensuring our aircraft not only look impeccable but also enhance the game's diversity. Over recent months, we've rolled out a spectrum of new liveries: from authentic brands like Wizz Air and Atlantic to our playful creation, "Luftwaffles", and even designs birthed from our community contest. And rest assured, this chapter on liveries is far from closed!
Scenario Editor Feature
We've introduced a versatile scenario editor, empowering players to craft custom flight schedules tailored to their preferences. With intuitive airport maps at their fingertips, players can seamlessly designate parking spots for aircraft. The editor breaks down tasks between arrivals and departures, while offering a wide selection of airplanes and their liveries—encompassing both official designs and those integrated via the Steam Workshop. Furthermore, players can customize elements such as the date, time, weather conditions, and specific airports.
Make Your Custom Aircraft Liveries
Leveraging the templates we've furnished, players can craft their very own distinct aircraft liveries. They have the freedom to share these creations with fellow players via the Steam Workshop. For offline enjoyment, they can simply slot them into the designated game directory. These bespoke liveries are compatible with custom scenarios and will be showcased on free-roaming aircraft. In the multiplayer setting, if a participant has an identical livery, it will be visible to them. Conversely, if they lack the host's specific livery, one from their existing collection will be chosen at random for display.
Tablet Features
Besides the functionalities you're already familiar with on our tablet, we've introduced a camera flight mode and a fast-travel option directly to vehicles.
Now, as mentioned in our introduction, let's briefly discuss the changes in mechanics and features for our vehicles.
Your favorite - Pushback
We recognize that a comprehensive pushback feature in AirportSim was a significant concern for many. Rest assured, we've included it in its entirety. Understanding the importance of aircraft pushback for players, we've diligently crafted this feature to offer a genuine experience. Your responsibilities encompass preparing the vehicle, connecting to the aircraft, and guiding it to the specified location. Additionally, virtual teammates are on hand to help ensure safety during this process.
Passengers and mechanics related to the Shuttle Bus, Jetway, and Stairs.
In the most recent demo, you can firsthand experience the intricacies of passenger handling, a multifaceted procedure that demands a range of tools. At present, you can trial the stair mechanics. It's not only about accurately positioning them on the tarmac, but also adjusting them to the right elevation. Only once they're securely docked can you ascend and access the aircraft doors—and don't overlook the safety handrails! This location often serves as a rendezvous point for the Shuttle Bus.
If there's a significant distance between the terminal and the aircraft, this vehicle provides a secure transportation method for passengers. Within the game's framework, it's your responsibility to ensure every passenger is seated and departs the bus after their journey, and always be mindful of the doors. Alternatively, you can utilize the Jetway. When choosing this method, you need to meticulously connect it to the plane, enabling passengers to leave without having to venture far from the terminal.
You Can Be a Marshall
If you've tuned into our live streams, you've seen marshalling in action. As aircraft touch down, they're going to need your guidance. Your role? Ensure pilots navigate accurately, bringing their planes safely to the designated spot. We've added a touch of authenticity with a distinct stop marker, showing you exactly where each aircraft should halt.
Catering Truck
The catering vehicle is designed to replenish an aircraft's onboard supplies. It's not just about driving; positioning the truck at the specified location on the airport tarmac is crucial. Once firmly in position, you can then raise the loading platform to the right height and seamlessly link up with the aircraft for the restocking process.
Ground Power Unit (GPU) Exploration
We're excited to present two unique Ground Power Units for your hands-on experience in the demo version. Though each unit has its distinct features, their operational and handling procedures remain strikingly similar. Once you've positioned the unit appropriately, it's essential to establish a connection with the aircraft. With a proper link, you can activate the unit using specific controls. Additionally, it falls upon you to communicate to the aircraft's crew the operational status of the GPU—whether it's activated or deactivated.
Follow Me
In AirportSim, players dive right into their tasks shortly after an aircraft touches down. The "Follow Me" vehicle plays a crucial role in safely guiding the aircraft to its designated spot on the airport grounds, effectively averting any potential chaos on the tarmac. Assuming the role of a player, you step behind the wheel of this vehicle, charting the course towards the predetermined aircraft location, all while ensuring that the pilot closely follows your lead.
Luggage
Handling baggage has undergone significant changes from the initial version, where baggage appeared to "teleport" to and from the aircraft. Based on your feedback, we've overhauled the mechanics related to baggage. Now, you have direct access to the aircraft's cargo hold, where you must personally load and unload baggage. We believe this modification will greatly enhance the immersion when playing AirportSim.
Securing aircraft
Securing aircraft on the airport apron has been a part of our journey since the very first demo. However, as you can observe while playing the latest version, we haven't been resting on our laurels. We've enhanced the functionality of wheel chocks, ensuring they now respond correctly. Furthermore, we've streamlined your work by enabling you to collect multiple chocks simultaneously. One noteworthy addition is the By Pass Pin, which was mentioned earlier in the text—a highly significant safety feature that we've decided to incorporate into the game.
Refueling
Refueling is an entirely new mechanic that you haven't had the chance to explore in detail yet. It's a complex procedure, so it might pose a challenge initially. Once you've positioned yourself on the apron, the responsibility falls squarely on your shoulders. You should begin by connecting the equipment to the aircraft's power source before proceeding to pump the aviation fuel. Keep a close eye on the fuel quantity and ensure everything is securely in place when you complete the entire process.
Well, we've made it to the end! This update has been quite a ride, but we hope you've found it enjoyable. We've done our best to cover all the important stuff, but hey, if we missed something, just give us a shout in the comments or on our Discord Channel. And by the way, if you've got any questions, feel free to ask!
P.S. Have you had a chance to check out our latest trailer?
