FSX Ultralight Tecnam Sierra Amphib SLSA

Savor the freedom of low-and-slow adventures with this freeware Tecnam P2002 Sierra Amphib package by developer Don Halcom. Designed for Microsoft Flight Simulator X, it melds the sleek Italian heritage of the Tecnam series with amphibious capabilities that let you explore small lakes, rivers, or any calm waterway. Its streamlined fuselage and sliding canopy add realism, while the model’s moving parts ensure a truly dynamic experience.

Key Characteristics of the Amphibious Design

The real-world Tecnam P2002 Sierra, a light sport aircraft (LSA) typically manufactured in Italy, is known for its metal-framed construction and side-by-side seating arrangement. This virtual adaptation brings those same qualities into the simulator. You can even operate the canopy in-flight—open it and catch the breeze as you skim over secluded ponds. In addition, the model consumes about five gallons of fuel per hour, and it can burn various fuel types other than diesel in real life.

Performance Highlights and Specifications

This aircraft reflects typical P2002 Sierra numbers, which translates well into simulated flight. Its robust Rotax 912ULS engine provides around 100 horsepower with a reduction ratio of 2.4286:1. In most cases, real-world performance sits around 116 knots cruising speed at 75% power, while the stall speed (with flaps) hovers at 38 knots—making it approachable for lower-time virtual pilots. Expect solid climb rates near 1050 ft/min and a service ceiling up to 14,000 ft, suitable for scenic tours or specialized mission flights.

Dimension Range

Wing span is approximately 28.2 ft, and overall length is 21.7 ft.

Fuel Capacity

26.4 US gallons, split between two 50-liter wing tanks.

Construction

All-metal airframe with a 5° wing dihedral and a sliding canopy design.

Operational Limits

Supports load factors up to +6/-3 and maintains a max takeoff weight of 1320 lbs.

Special Amphibious Features

When operating on water, activate the water rudder by pressing Shift+W. This ensures improved directional control near docks or during water taxi maneuvers. The reflective exterior surfaces catch the sun nicely, emphasizing the aircraft’s metallic structure. Keep in mind that Microsoft Flight Simulator X may not perfectly render “parts within a part” textures due to known software limitations, but this does not impact the flight model.

Installation Steps

1. Create a temporary folder (for example, “Temp”) anywhere on your system.
2. Extract all contents from the downloaded “sieamfsx.zip” into that folder.
3. Locate the “Tecnam P2002 Sierra Amphibian” folder, then copy it.
4. Navigate to the “SimObjects/airplanes” directory inside your main Microsoft Flight Simulator X folder and paste the entire “Tecnam P2002 Sierra Amphibian” folder there.
5. Refer to the included “READ_ME.txt” in your temporary folder if further guidance is required.
6. Finally, load up your new freeware plane and take it airborne.

Additional Notes

This complete freeware release by Don Halcom incorporates a fully functional base model, so you will not need any separate package. The aircraft was tailored to operate as a Special Light Sport Aircraft (SLSA), which in the real world allows recreational flyers to enjoy simpler certification processes. In the simulator, you can look forward to side-window views of the sparkling water as you touch down and navigate fun amphibious landings.