Big Radials has officially released the Lockheed L-1329 Jetstar into Early Access for Microsoft Flight Simulator, fulfilling their previous announcement. This historic aircraft, famously known as Elvis Presley’s personal jet, is now available for purchase on Big Radials’ website at a discounted price of $30.00 USD during the Early Access period.
The Jetstar, recognized as the very first purpose-built business jet, started as a tender for a United States Air Force project before transitioning to the business aviation sector. Powered by four Pratt & Whitney JT12 engines, the aircraft can cruise at Mach 0.8 and reach altitudes of 40,000 feet.
Big Radials has chosen to bring this early version of the Jetstar to life, aiming to capture the essence of the aircraft that pioneered the business jet market.
Features included in the Early Access:
- Full native flight model, 3D assets, and 4K textures
- Custom XPDR instrument
- Fully interactive cockpit
- Complete fuel system management for all six tanks
- Autopilot functionality
Features still in development:
- Liveries (with the famous Elvis livery to be included)
- Sound improvements
- Flight model refinements
- Custom ADF and CIVA INS instruments
- Enhanced external 3D model and textures
- Checklist and more detailed documentation
Big Radials has reminded the community that this is an Early Access product, and therefore certain elements, such as sounds, flight model, and various instruments, are still works in progress. As part of the Early Access program, users can expect regular updates, with the developer committing to weekly or bi-weekly improvements.
The developer has committed to providing weekly or bi-weekly updates during the Early Access phase, with the full release expected to include additional native features for MSFS 2024, once the SDK becomes available. Big Radials is considering offering an upgrade path for those purchasing the MSFS 2020 version who wish to move to the 2024 edition, though this is still under consideration due to the delayed SDK access.
Notably, Big Radials also indicated that the price of the MSFS 2024 version will be higher than the 2020 release, reflecting the additional features planned for the newer platform. The team further mentioned that if there is enough interest and sales, they may develop a complete INS system that does not rely on GPS calls, offering a deeper level of realism for those who value authenticity in navigation systems.
For those interested in supporting the ongoing development of the Jetstar, the Early Access version is now available exclusively through Big Radials’ website. However, livery creators are asked to refrain from developing custom liveries until the final release, as the aircraft’s model is still subject to changes.
