A New Frontier for Flight Sim Enthusiasts

The landscape of flight simulation hardware is expanding with an exciting collaboration between PowerA and Meridian GMT. The two companies have teased a new peripheral, currently codenamed Project X-Ray Flight Deck Wireless Controller, designed specifically to enhance the experience of playing Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 on both Xbox and PC.


Merging Familiarity with Aviation Precision

While the market for flight sticks has seen strong entries like those from Honeycomb, this new initiative stands out by integrating complex flight controls into a standard Xbox controller form factor. According to reports, Meridian GMT has been iterating on the concept of a compact, ergonomic flight controller for over a year.


Key Features of the Project X-Ray

Although the project is still in active development, the initial renders and teasers highlight several crucial additions that address common pain points for controller-based pilots:

  • Throttle Control: A dedicated lever for precise engine management.
  • Flight Surface Controls: Accessible switches for landing gear and flaps.
  • Navigation and Utility: A rotary trim knob along with specific toggles for lighting and radio communication.
  • Autopilot Integration: Dedicated autopilot buttons replacing the standard D-pad configuration.

Why This Matters for Xbox Players

One of the most significant aspects of this announcement is the focus on native Xbox support from the start. This ensures that console users, who often struggle with the limitations of a standard gamepad when navigating the deep systems of Microsoft Flight Simulator, will have a dedicated hardware solution to bridge that gap.


«The Meridian GMT desire to use a regular Xbox controller form factor is especially noteworthy. Something everyone's already familiar and comfortable with holding, while adding the main essential physical controls for flight.»

Looking Ahead

While details regarding the final retail name, official pricing, and release date remain under wraps, the project signals a growing trend toward specialized controllers that maintain user comfort. As development continues, this device could potentially open up the genre to a broader audience who prioritize the ease of a traditional controller but require the functionality of a professional flight deck.