DevBlog: The Road to Version 3.0
Hey everyone,
It might seem like things have been quiet, but behind the scenes, we’ve been working hard on some major updates for World of Airports. The biggest focus right now? The final development phase of our new User Interface (UI)—a game-changing improvement that will redefine how the game looks and feels.
New UI: A Huge Step Forward
From a functional perspective, we’re treating this update as an evolution—we don’t want to disrupt the way you play the game. We’ve designed it to ensure that you won’t have to change your habits, so it still feels familiar. However, visually, this update is a complete revolution.
Our goal is to unify the entire game’s interface with a modern, cohesive look. Since this is such a fundamental change, we’ve decided to mark this version as World of Airports 3.0. Unlike version 2.0, which introduced major gameplay changes, 3.0 is purely about the UI and visual improvements. No need to worry—your gameplay will remain intact!
Introducing GRU - São Paulo/Guarulhos Airport
Alongside the UI update, GRU will be joining the list of playable airports! As per our tradition, this airport brings unique challenges and new functionalities to the taxiway system. Thankfully, our fully rewritten taxiway logic allows us to implement these features with much more flexibility.
What makes GRU special?
- Triple-stand gates
- Parallel taxiways based on wingspan categories
This brings us to one of the biggest system updates in 3.0…
New Aircraft Size Categorization
Starting with 3.0, we’re transitioning from the current S/M/L/X aircraft classification to the ICAO size categories:
- A, B, C, D, E, F (and G for AN225)
Why is this important?
- This allows for more accurate stand assignments and taxiway usage.
- Airports like INN and BRI will see new arrival possibilities.
- It opens the door for Business Jets (BJs) and General Aviation (GA)!
- While BJs won’t be in 3.0, they will follow very soon after the update.
Advanced Runway Lighting System
Another major leap forward in realism is our completely reworked runway lighting system.
What’s new?
- Full activation of all runway safety lighting systems
- Adjustable intensity based on conditions
- Directional adaptation based on the pilot’s perspective
- Meticulously designed using real-world aviation manuals and regulations
This upgrade puts World of Airports among the most realistic runway lighting simulations available in gaming. Be sure to check out our demo video to see it in action!
Complete CRJ Fleet Overhaul
Version 3.0 will also introduce an entirely rebuilt CRJ aircraft family. Expect brand-new models and improved designs across the fleet, bringing them up to the latest visual and functional standards.
Bug Fixes & Minor Enhancements
Of course, this update will also include various bug fixes and optimizations, but the major changes listed above are the core focus of 3.0.
When Will 3.0 Be Released?
As always, we’re not giving out an exact release date. However, based on our previous commitments, you can expect version 3.0 to arrive within Q1 of this year.
Thank you for your continued support and excitement! We can’t wait to share this new era of World of Airports with you.