The Auster J1 Autocrat, a beloved British light aircraft from the 1940s, has made its debut in Microsoft Flight Simulator as a fully native freeware add-on. Known for its versatility and short takeoff and landing (STOL) capabilities, the Autocrat was widely used for private flying and training. Its high-wing, fabric-covered design and seating for three have made it a favorite among vintage aviation enthusiasts. This new release is a comprehensive conversion of Dave Garwood's original FSX model, updated with permission by "flyndive". The add-on includes updates to textures, animations, and the flight model, along with refined engine configurations and systems. Additional improvements cover lighting, sound effects, and modern MSFS-specific features.
You can explore two variants of the Auster J1 in this package. The first is the original wheeled version, powered by a 110hp Blackburn Cirrus Major engine and available in three liveries. The second is a tundra tire-equipped variant, featuring a more powerful 160hp Lycoming O-320 engine and seven liveries. The release also incorporates features tailored for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, such as a full-body collision mesh to enhance interactions with the aircraft. However, it remains compatible with Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020, with certain 2024-specific features unavailable in the older platform.
Installation is straightforward, requiring the aircraft folder to be placed in the Community folder. If you're a fan of vintage aviation, the Auster J1 Autocrat offers a well-crafted addition to your hangar. Since this is a freeware project, consider showing your appreciation for the creator's efforts by making a donation via their Flightsim.to page.