It has been quite some time since we last heard from Skyward Simulations regarding their Cessna Citation 680 Sovereign+. After a period of silence following their initial announcement, the team has returned with a substantial development update. They recently shared a comprehensive feature list that suggests the project has evolved significantly during this quiet period.
Systems depth and complexity
In the dev update, posted on Discord, the developer says the aircraft aims for a high level of fidelity. A major highlight of the update is the electrical system. Skyward Simulations claims to have modeled detailed bus logic with over 170 simulated circuits. This includes battery temperature monitoring, ground power logic, and fully interactive circuit breakers.
Other core systems appear to receive similar attention. The team states that the anti-ice system is fully simulated across the wings, engines, stabilizer, and windshield. It features temperature monitoring and accurate Crew Alerting System (CAS) alerts.
The pneumatic system reportedly features an accurate bleed air layout. This includes APU integration, automatic source selection, and direct links to the Environmental Control System (ECS). On the hydraulic side, the developer mentions that the model accounts for accumulator gas and fluid dynamics. We can actually see this in action in the shared media, which displays a functional hydraulic synoptic page on the avionics suite.
Avionics and flight management
The Sovereign+ will feature a custom Garmin G5000 avionics suite. The update details a fully simulated Datalink system capable of ACARS and CPDLC operations, including FANS 1/A+ and ATN B1 standards. The system handles D-ATIS, clearances, weather, and ADS-C.
A central Global Touchscreen Controller (GTC) serves as the hub for these systems. Pilots can use it to manage the TOLD (Takeoff and Landing Data) computer, control cabin lighting and temperature, and run system tests.
To assist with flight operations, the aircraft includes an EFB. This tablet integrates with SimBrief for flight plans and manages aircraft states. It allows users to control payload, ground services, and even specific details like oxygen and fluid levels.
Visuals and performance
The new screenshots released by the team showcase the aircraft in various conditions. We see detailed night lighting in the cockpit, rain effects on the windshield, and a fully rendered cabin with passenger seating. The exterior model features interactive panels such as doors and service points.
Despite the visual fidelity, Skyward Simulations says that testers report performance is in line with default Microsoft Flight Simulator aircraft.
Release status
Skyward Simulations has not yet announced a specific release date. However, they stated in the update that the launch is “approaching” and that the project is in advanced stages. We will continue to follow the development of the Sovereign+ and report back as soon as we have more concrete launch details.
