Microsoft Flight Simulator Unveils Local Legend 11: The Aero Vodochody Ae-45 and Ae-145

Aero Vodochody of Czechoslovakia, which created the Ae-45 in the 1940s, is now bringing the Ae-45 prototype and its supercharged version, the Ae-145 to the United States.
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The Aero Vodochody Ae-45 “Aero” Family

Local Legend 11 is released at the same time as Microsoft Flight Simulator World Update 14: Central Eastern Europe, the aircraft family’s home skies.

Ae-45, also known as the “Aero”, is a low-wing twin-engine utility aircraft manufactured and developed by Aero Vodochody in Czechoslovakia. Frequently referenced as the “Aero,” it can accommodate up to five passengers, including two in the cockpit. The first flight took place on 21 July 1947 and the aircraft was launched in 1948. Ae-145 features supercharged motors, refined flight controls and improved avionics. It is an updated version of Ae-45. A total of 590 Aero variants have been built in a run that spans from 1947 to 1960. Of these, 162 Ae-145s were constructed between 1959 and 1964.

Local Legend 11 includes both the Ae-45 and Ae-145 prototypes, with each having a variety of liveries.

Aero Vodochody Ae-45

Ae-45 (often referred to as Aero 45) was first conceived in 1946, following World War II. Five Czechoslovak engineering teams worked together to develop a low-maintenance, efficient civil aircraft capable of performing a wide range of tasks. The work of the five engineers was motivated both by their national pride and by the desire to establish the Czechoslovakian aerospace industry after World War II. The Czechoslovaks were so motivated that they started working and funding the project on their own without state or industrial sponsorship.

Aero Vodochody stepped in after a little over a year and supported the engineers. The result was one of aviation’s most distinctive, rugged, and enduring performers. It features a cabin with high visibility, powerful engines mounted on the wings that increase speed and efficiency and a cockpit designed to maximize pilot effectiveness. The Ae-45, which is an acronym for a four- or five-seater aircraft, was a reliable, fast and high-end craft. It also proved to be easy to maintain.

The aircraft’s engineers incorporated numerous features that were state-of-the-art for the era, including electrically-actuated propeller pitch gearboxes able to be pre-set using push button control (similar to an automatic transmission in an automobile). The designers also designed electrical control systems for landing gear and flaps. Early versions of the Aero 45 adapted systems from earlier aircraft. This included wartime German bombers such as the Heinkel He 111. The components adapted by the production team included magneto switch and engine diagnostic indicators.

Aero 45 models were quickly exported throughout Europe to France, The Netherlands, United Kingdom and many other countries. Its cockpit visibility and speed were highly praised by the pilots. Airframes were used in civil and militaries operators across dozens of nations for various purposes, including passenger transport, air ambulances and flight schools.

Ae-45 gained public recognition shortly after it was released by winning an important air race in Great Britain, and completing several expeditions in Africa. It was the first Czechoslovakian plane to fly across the Atlantic Ocean in 1958, from South America all the way to Africa. The initial success of the Aero series set the tone for subsequent iterations. It was produced for 14 years. The Czech market began to use the Aero in its domestic operations after years of strong exports. The Aero had been refined by its engineers and now included more advanced avionics systems, flight controls and power management.

There are no two identical Aero 45s. Private owners have modified the airframes over time. The most noticeable upgrades are cockpit instruments, especially from modern Piper or Cessna aircraft. Also, cabin improvements for comfort.

While many aviation museums throughout the globe display static examples of the Aero 45, only a small handful of fully functional airframes remain, making them a rare sight in today’s skies.

Ae-45 is 25’6″ long, 7’7″ tall and 40ft 2inches wide. It has an wing span of 40ft,2in. Two inverted four-cylinder Avia M332-III engines, each delivering 140 horsepower, power the aircraft. These engines turn two bladed metal propellers of variable pitch. Aero 45 can fly 1,100 miles and has a ceiling of 19,400 feet. It also climbs 980 feet every minute. The Aero 45 cruises at 160 mph and reaches a maximum speed of 175 miles per hour. It can also take off from short, unimproved airports with a 1,500-foot runway.

Ae-45 has charmed aviators with its power and reliability for many decades. The Ae-45 is a versatile aircraft that can be used for many purposes. From practicing basic maneuvers, to undertaking trans-oceanic and multi-continental trips.

Local Legend Ae-45, a version of the prototype airframe, is available in four different liveries, including: Prototype (Polished), OK-FHA and Plain White.

Aero Vodochody Ae-145

Aero Vodochody in Czechoslovakia developed and manufactures the Ae-145, a low-wing twin-engine utility aircraft. It can seat up to five people, two of whom are in the cockpit. This is a version of the Ae-45 that made its maiden voyage on July 21, 47 and which was first introduced in 1949. A total 162 Ae-145s have been built between 1959-63.

The Ae-145 is equipped with advanced flight control systems, upgraded avionics and supercharged engine, as well as more efficient power management system. Additionally, the canopy offers better visibility than its predecessor, Ae-45. Ultimately, the aircraft was used for passenger transportation, cargo transport, air ambulances, flight training, law enforcement and more by both civil and military operators across dozens of nations.

Private owners have modified the airframes over the years, so that no two Aero 145s today are the same. Some notable improvements include the addition of cockpit instrumentation from more modern aircraft like Piper and Cessna and improved cabins.

While many aviation museums throughout the globe display static examples of the Aero 45 and 145, only a small handful of fully functional airframes remain, making them a rare sight in today’s skies.

Ae-145 has wingspan 40′ 2″ and measures 25′ 6″. It is 7ft 7in tall with a length of 25 feet. The Ae-145 is powered by two 4-cylinder inverted Avia M332-III pistons that deliver each 140 horsepower. They turn metal 2-bladed propellers with variable pitch. Aero 145’s range is 1,100 mile, it has a service level of 19,400 feet and a climb rate of 980 feet/minute. It can cruise at 160 mph, and reach a top-speed of 175 mph. It can also take off from short, unimproved airports with a 1,500-foot runway.

Ae-145 aircraft is an excellent example of a beautiful design and outstanding performance that resulted from the designers’ adherence to utilitarianism in the development process. Ae-145 offers a multitude of possibilities for its wide range of applications. Pilots will love spending hours in this stunning machine.

Ae-145 comes in four different liveries, including OM-NHS SP-LXH Red-Cream Silver-Gold.

Ae-45s and Ae-145s are now available in Microsoft Flight SimulatorFor USD $14.99. The sky’s calling!

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