Majestic Software

Majestic Software develops aircraft simulation software, including the MJC8 Q400 add-on for Microsoft Flight Simulator X and Lockheed Martin Prepar3D. The product recreates the Bombardier Dash 8 Q400 turboprop aircraft, with detailed flight dynamics and aircraft systems. It is designed for home flight simulation users, cockpit builders and people interested in learning about Q400 operations.

Simulating the Dash 8 Q400

The MJC8 Q400 is an aircraft add-on built around the Bombardier Dash 8 Q400.

Its development began as a software framework for a flight simulator training device.

The project later became an independent aircraft simulation product for desktop flight simulators.

Majestic Software developed its own Flight Dynamics Engine rather than relying entirely on the default simulator flight model.

This engine can operate at a higher calculation rate than the standard simulator system.

It models different aspects of turboprop aircraft behavior.

These include wind effects, icing and propeller operation.

The simulation also accounts for how propeller airflow affects wing lift.

Propeller discing and autorotation are included in the flight dynamics.

Aircraft Systems and Weather Effects

The MJC8 Q400 includes detailed simulations of aircraft systems.

In the PRO edition, these include electrical, hydraulic and avionics systems.

The software also models aircraft failures and allows users to adjust aircraft reliability.

Failure scenarios can occur randomly or under selected conditions.

One example is an engine failure at V1 during takeoff.

Weather radar behavior is another part of the simulation.

The system accounts for aircraft altitude, antenna tilt and the altitude of weather conditions.

It also includes ground clutter, weather shadows and a ground mapping mode.

Majestic Software uses digital sound processing to recreate propeller sounds within the simulator.

Editions for Different Users

The MJC8 Q400 is available in four editions.

The PILOT edition is designed for home flight simulation users.

The PRO edition adds more advanced simulation features.

The COCKPIT edition is intended for people building home cockpit systems.

The AIRLINE edition includes licensing for professional use.

The editions allow users to choose a version that matches their simulation needs.

The 64-bit editions support Prepar3D versions 5.x and 6.x, while some 32-bit editions support Microsoft Flight Simulator X and earlier Prepar3D versions.

Shared Cockpit and Professional Simulation

Majestic Software includes a shared cockpit feature that connects two instances of the aircraft simulation.

The connection can operate through a home network or the internet.

This allows two users to work with the same simulated aircraft environment.

The company also operates Atlantic Simulators, a subsidiary focused on building professional simulators.

Its aircraft simulation technology therefore serves both home simulation and professional applications.

For pilots and aviation fans, Majestic Software offers a detailed way to explore turboprop aircraft operation. The MJC8 Q400 combines flight dynamics, aircraft systems, weather effects and cockpit procedures in a desktop simulation product.