Originally published in German on simFlight.de
It’s almost time: The long-awaited v2 update for the Aerosoft CRJ is just around the corner and is expected to be released soon. But today, you can get an exclusive first look at the updates here on simFlight.com. We take a closer look at the CRJ 900 in MSFS2024 and simulate a Lufthansa flight (or the so-called “hop”) between Frankfurt and Stuttgart.
Outside Check
Our journey begins at parking position V175, where multiple sleek regional jets like the CRJ are often lined up in real life. Thanks to the Walkaround Mode in MSFS2024, we can stroll around the aircraft and inspect it in detail.
At first glance, the textures are impressively sharp even at relatively short distances. Was this already the case in version 1? If not, clear improvements have been made here. Otherwise, there’s little to criticize about the exterior appearance of the aircraft. However, the gear modeling leaves something to be desired. The tires appear somewhat blocky, and the rest of the landing gear isn’t in a much better state—this could definitely be improved! In contrast, other exterior details, such as the landing lights, are well-modeled, and the textures are overall detailed and realistic.
Mind Your Head
After inspecting the exterior, we move inside the CRJ. Before settling into the cockpit, we open the newly functional cockpit door and take a look at the redesigned cabin. Compared to version 1, this is a significant improvement—where the seating was previously rudimentary, the cabin in v2 is now functional and well-detailed. While it’s not visually overwhelming, it serves its purpose and is overall well-done.
A particularly nice touch is the “Fasten Seatbelt” and “No Smoking” signs, which light up in sync with the cockpit switches. This is a small but excellent detail that adds to the realism.
On the way back to the flight deck, we notice another addition: The seats are now equipped with In-Flight Entertainment (IFE) screens. While this feature is rather uncharacteristic for a CRJ—since few airlines actually equip their regional jets with such options—it adds a touch of detail and rounds out the overall experience.
Favorite Spot? Front Left!
Now it’s time to take the captain’s seat. The cockpit feels familiar, with no major changes visible at first glance. The tightness of the compact cockpit is immediately noticeable again.
Looking up at the overhead panel, we power up the aircraft, and the switches and dials produce satisfying clicking sounds—a nice touch! While the systems boot up, we focus on one of the most significantly updated features: the Electronic Flight Bag (EFB).
With a single click, the EFB activates, revealing several new features. It now carries the label “AeroOS 2.0”, and a new Simrate display is visible in the bottom-right corner.
Enhanced EFB Features
The EFB’s functionality has been expanded significantly. A new “Flightplan” tab is available next to the checklist tab. By entering your SimBrief User ID (not the username), you can import the current flight plan with a single click. Essential details like route, weather, and distance are displayed directly in the overview. The original OFP (Operational Flight Plan) can also be accessed, and you can quickly jump to specific sections of the flight plan using a shortcut button—very handy!
Moreover, the flight plan can now be sent directly to the FMS, and fuel and payload data from the OFP can be imported.
The Performance Page, where takeoff and landing speeds are calculated, has seen little change, as these features were already part of version 1. However, a landing distance calculator would be a welcome improvement.
Other additions include the ability to control aircraft doors and panel states on the Aircraft Page, along with a new option to connect the jetway. The Maintenance Page has seen minimal changes.
A major leap forward, however, is the Navigraph Charts integration. These charts are now natively available in the EFB, provided you link your Navigraph account (an active subscription is required).
The Options Page includes settings for throttle calibration, FMS, MFD, and more. GSX features such as automated refueling and door handling have been added. While these represent a partial GSX integration, they are a step in the right direction.
Overall, the new “AeroOS” EFB impresses with its modernized functionality and user-friendliness. Though more performance calculation and GSX integration features would be appreciated, their absence doesn’t detract significantly from the experience.
Just below the EFB is the SKYCAM, which can actually be used to take a look into the cabin via camera. However, if you turn the switch to position 3, you’ll suddenly be stared at by Mathijs Kok, the former Aerosoft Product Manager. A relic from version 1…?
Flying the CRJ
Now it’s time to get serious: 90 passengers are waiting to fly to Stuttgart. Preparations in the FMS are a breeze thanks to the new SimBrief integration. Performance data can also be sent directly from the EFB.
During FMS input, a past issue with the Speedbrake-clickspot interfering with the CLR button has been resolved. A smart camera shortcut (Ctrl+1 in MSFS2020, Shift+1 in MSFS2024) now temporarily hides the Speedbrake for easier access.
The engines start with a simple button press (new in v2: the button must be held for 3 seconds). The sounds are decent but not extraordinary. The ground handling feels smooth, and the CRJ performs well during taxi and takeoff. While the aircraft feels slightly “wobbly” at higher speeds, this has improved compared to v1. In the air, the CRJ feels agile, though its responsiveness around the roll axis might feel overly sensitive to some.
Final Thoughts
This (P)Review of the Aerosoft CRJ v2 highlights several improvements that bring the aircraft up to date. While it doesn’t surpass competitors like Fenix, the update is a commendable effort, especially considering it’s free for existing users. The new price of under €50 for the entire bundle (CRJ 550, 700, 900, 1000) is fair, and existing customers can enjoy all variants at no extra cost.
For those seeking something new and unconventional, the CRJ v2 offers a refreshing alternative to flying the usual A320s and 737s across Europe.
