FSX Ultralight Tecnam P2002 Sierra SLSA

This freeware release brings the Italian-built Tecnam P2002 Sierra SLSA into Microsoft Flight Simulator X, complete with a sleek metal airframe, fully operational sliding canopy, and a fuel-efficient Rotax powerplant. Developed by Don Halcom, this add-on provides a realistic low-wing experience for virtual pilots who appreciate meticulous attention to detail, reflective exterior textures, and an authentic flight model.

Design Characteristics and Background

The Tecnam P2002 Sierra, produced by Costruzioni Aeronautiche Tecnam in Italy, is widely recognized for its agile handling and sporty profile. Frequently included in the Special Light Sport Aircraft (S-LSA) category, this model stands out for its all-metal construction, impressive range, and low operating costs. Many real-world aviators favor it for its sliding canopy, which can be flown open in certain phases of flight, and for its strategically refined wing design that promotes stable handling characteristics.

Engine and Fuel Capability

Under the cowling, you will discover a Rotax 912ULS engine configured for 100 hp at 5800 RPM. This engine is well known for its flexibility, permitting the use of various fuel types (including unleaded, leaded, or AvGas). With an approximate burn rate of five gallons per hour, the airplane is remarkably economical, allowing extensive cross-country routes or local training flights without frequent stops.

Notable Flight Specs

The aircraft’s performance profiles include a stall speed of 38 KTS with flaps extended and a maximum sea-level rate of climb around 1050 ft/min. Its wing span of about 28 feet ensures predictable aileron response, while the main gear track of just over 6 feet helps keep handling precise on takeoff and landing rolls. Pilots can climb to a service ceiling of 14,000 ft, and the airframe accommodates an ultimate load factor of +6/-3, underscoring its robust design.

Visual and Interactive Features

This simulator rendition includes numerous moving elements: the sliding canopy functions in real time, letting you open and close it during flight. Further enhancing realism, the exterior features reflective metal surfaces that capture light differently from various angles. However, these visual elements may occasionally exhibit minor texture anomalies due to a known FSX quirk regarding nested parts. This bug does not affect the flight model or general visual appeal, but it is worth noting.

Dimension Summary

Wing Span

28.2 ft

Overall Length

21.7 ft

Height

7.8 ft

Cockpit Width

43.3 in (approx.)

Wing Area

124 sq.ft.

Fuel Tank Capacity

26.4 US gal total

Max Takeoff Weight (MTOW)

1320 lbs

Empty Weight

740 lbs

Installing This Complete Freeware Package

1. Create a temporary folder of your choice (such as “Temp”) to unzip the downloaded sierrfsx.zip package.
2. Extract all files and subfolders from sierrfsx.zip into that temporary directory.
3. Highlight the “Tecnam P2002 Sierra” folder and copy it.
4. Navigate to your C:\Program Files\Microsoft Games\Microsoft Flight Simulator X\SimObjects\Airplanes directory (or wherever your simulator files reside), then paste the copied folder there.
5. Review the READ_ME.txt file located in the temporary folder for any additional notes or references.
6. Launch the simulator and select your new aircraft, ready for test flights.

Developer Credit

This model was carefully crafted and released as freeware by Don Halcom. His expertise in light-sport design elements ensures that sim enthusiasts will enjoy the efficiency, style, and agility of the Tecnam P2002 Sierra in their virtual hangars.