🚀 Introduction

X-Plane 12 has become much more realistic, but its capabilities expand exponentially when the right plugins are connected.

This list is a current selection of must-have additions that will improve the experience of any pilot: from beginners to professionals.

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1. X-Camera

The best plugin for controlling cameras in the cabin and outside.

Advantages:

dozens of presets

• smooth transitions

• cinematic modes

• head-tracking support

For beginners and content makers - a must-have.

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🟫2. BetterPushback

Ideal plugin for realistic pushback.

Advantages:

• advanced towing route

• voice commands

• user-friendly interface

• XP12 compatible

Required for every parking lot.

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🟩3. Avitab

On-board tablet with maps, diagrams, navigation and integration with many aircraft.

Functions:

• PDF maps

• integration with Navigraph

• display location

• convenient work with checklists

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🟦4. SkunkCrafts Updater

Updates aircraft and plugins in one click.

Why is it needed:

• makes life easier

• always up-to-date versions of models

• fewer bugs, higher stability

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🟧5. XPRealistic v2

Adds realistic effects: vibrations, sounds, camera movement, turbulence.

Gives the feeling of a real airplane.

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🟥6. SAM (Scenery Animation Manager)

Brings airports to life:

• Jetways

• Marshall

• Rain/snow

• Building animations

Used in hundreds of custom scenes.

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⚫7. FlyWithLua NG

Platform for Lua scripts that can improve FPS, graphics, lighting, clouds.

Most tweaks require this plugin.

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🟨8. LiveTraffic / Traffic Global

For those who want realistic air traffic.

Traffic Global: stable and optimized

LiveTraffic: shows real traffic from the network

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🟪9. NOAA Weather plugin (XP11 legacy) / Weather Enhancers XP12

Although XP12 has a new weather engine, some users prefer improved visual solutions.

Gives:

• improved visualization

• quick transitions of weather conditions

• additional parameters

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🟫10. ZIBO Updater + Swift (VATSIM)

For those who fly online.

Swift: client for VATSIM

Zibo Updater: quick updates of Zibo 737

Without this, full online piloting is impossible.

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🟣 Conclusion

These plugins form the core set that makes X-Plane 12 modern, convenient and as realistic as possible.

With them, your simulator will become faster, more beautiful and more functional.