X-Plane 12 offers a growing collection of high-quality freeware aircraft – from study-level airliners to hidden gems for regional and bush flying. Some of these addons easily compete with payware in terms of systems depth and flight realism.
In this article, we highlight some of the best freeware aircraft you should definitely try.
Airliners
Unlike in other categories, most high-quality freeware airliners in X-Plane 12 are not built from scratch. Instead, they are extensive modifications of default aircraft, significantly improving systems, flight models, and overall realism.
This means there are currently no fully independent, study-level freeware airliners – but some of these mods come surprisingly close.
Zibo 737-800
Probably the most famous freeware aircraft in X-Plane. The Zibo 737 is a complete rework of the default Boeing 737-800 and features an exceptional level of system depth. From a fully functional FMC to realistic LNAV/VNAV behavior, it is considered near study-level and is constantly being updated by the community.
Download: 1.95 GB via Google Drive
AeroGenesis A330-300
A complete rework of the X-Plane default A330-300 by a dedicated developer group. The aircraft is actively being improved and already offers a solid long-haul experience with modern Airbus systems.
Download: 522 MB from GitHub.
Sparky 747-400
A major overhaul of the default Boeing 747. The Sparky mod significantly improves systems, flight model, and avionics, making it a solid option for long-haul flights in X-Plane 12.
Download: 70 kB from X-Plane.org.
Regional Aircraft
X-Crafts E175 / E195 (Free Version)
A modern regional jet with clean avionics and a user-friendly cockpit. The free version offers a great balance between accessibility and system depth, making it ideal for pilots transitioning from GA to airliners.
Download: Directly from xcrafts.com.
LET L-410 Turbolet
A highly detailed freeware twin-engine turboprop designed for short-haul and regional operations. Known for its excellent STOL performance, it is perfect for small airfields and challenging environments.
It shines on unpaved runways and remote locations, offering a very hands-on and rewarding flying experience. It features custom systems and a very realistic flight model, making it one of the most underrated freeware aircraft available.
Download: 324,6 MB from x-plane.hu.
General Aviation
Aerobask Robin DR401
A beautifully modeled GA aircraft perfect for VFR flying. It combines great visuals with smooth handling and is ideal for relaxed flights or sightseeing.
Download: Directly via Aerobask.
King Air C90B (Modded)
An improved version of the default King Air with enhanced systems and flight behavior. A solid turboprop option for medium-range flights and IFR practice.
Download: 132.6 MB form X-Plane.org.
YAK-55M
A lightweight aerobatic aircraft built for extreme maneuverability. Perfect for pilots who want to explore aerobatics and push the limits of flight physics.
Originally published for X-Plane 9 by Nils, reworked in January 2023 for X-Plane 12 by arpeggio.
Download: 80.9 MB from X-Plane.org.
Helicopters
Next, we take things vertical. Helicopters in X-Plane 12 offer a completely different flying experience, requiring precise control and a good understanding of aerodynamics.
HSF Alouette III
A lightweight helicopter with very realistic flight dynamics. It is particularly well suited for pilots who want to experience authentic helicopter handling in X-Plane 12.
Download: 958.3 MB from X-Plane.org.
EC135 / H145 (Community Mods)
Modern multi-role helicopters often used for rescue and medical operations. These mods offer advanced systems and are a great challenge for experienced helicopter pilots.
Download: 562 MB from X-Plane.org.
Military Aircraft
Dassault Mirage IIIC
A classic jet fighter with impressive performance and detailed modeling. Perfect for high-speed flights and a different kind of flying experience.
Download: 422.5 MB from X-Plane.org.
Eurofighter Typhoon (Freeware)
A modern fighter jet with advanced avionics and high maneuverability. A great choice for those looking for fast-paced action.
Tools
Not all great freeware in X-Plane 12 comes in the form of aircraft. These tools can significantly improve your overall simulation experience.
Better Pushback
A must-have plugin that adds realistic pushback operations. It allows you to plan pushback routes, communicate withground crew, and greatly enhances immersion at the gate.
Download: 107 MB via GitHub.
LittleNavMap
A very useful tool by the german developer Alexander Barthel which allows you to perform detailed flight plans
Download: Via GitHub.
AviTab
An in-game tablet that integrates seamlessly into many aircraft. It allows you to view charts, maps, PDFs, and even browse the web without leaving the simulator.
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