New York to London in under two hours? It can only be the SR-71 Blackbird! This long-range strategic reconnaissance plane is probably the most exciting aircraft ever to fly. Now virtual pilots can experience a form of aviation in FS2004 normally reserved for a very select group of flyers. Stand by for an extremely fast ride! From the subtle sheen of the black paintwork to the menacing engine intakes, the sinister beauty of the SR-71 has been perfectly captured in this brilliant re-creation.On 1st September 1974, Major James V. Sullivan (Pilot) and Noel F. Widdifield (RSO) shot across a radar-checked start line 80,000 feet above New York at a speed of over 2,000mph. Exactly 1 hour, 54 minutes and 56.4 seconds later they had set a new world speed record from New York to London. Their average speed was 1,807 statute mph over the 3,461 statute mile course, only slowing down once to refuel from a modified KC-135 tanker. The aircraft, which still holds a clutch of world records, was put on static display at the Farnborough Air Show that week. This was the first time the top secret aircraft had been on public display outside the United States.The SR-71 Blackbird is the most famous reconnaissance aircraft ever to fly. It was renowned for its distinctive shape, dominated by the two giant engines, the all-over black livery and its ability to fly at up to three times the speed of sound. It could gaze down from enormous altitudes and keep tabs on Uncle Sam's enemies around the globe.Detailed features Authentic GMax-built model Fully working afterburners with modelled effect for realistic appearance Animated engine air intake spikes move according to speed Animated pilot figures Operating cockpit canopies Animated realistic-looking drag-chute for braking on the ground Operating in-
Manufacturer's Description
Developed by PILOT'S, SR-71 Blackbird is a faithful re-creation for Flight Simulator 2004 of the most amazing aircraft ever to take flight. Fast? The SR-71 certainly was! How about New York to London in under two hours and London to LA in less time than it takes to drive from London to Manchester? The Blackbird remains in the record books to this day and it's unlikely that an aeroplane will ever be built that goes any faster. SR-71 Blackbird is heading for FS2004 and now simulated pilots will have a chance to join aviation's elite and approach 3000mph at 85,000 feet.
