Key Takeaways
1. The new Echo Aviation controller from Honeycomb is priced at $150 and is currently only available through the manufacturer.
2. The controller includes accessories such as a carrying case, a 2.4GHz dongle, and adaptable levers for different aircraft types.
3. It replaces traditional flight sticks or yokes, offering throttle control and rudder pedals in a compact design suitable for travel.
4. The controller is compatible with Microsoft Flight Simulator (2020 and 2024), X-Plane 11 and 12, and Prepar3D, with six downloadable profiles available for Flight Simulator 2024.
5. Currently, the controller works only on PCs and Macs, with plans for a console version expected to be announced in 2026.
The new Echo Aviation controller has hit the market and can be bought directly from Honeycomb. For now, it’s only available through the manufacturer, and even specialized online retailers haven’t listed this gamepad yet.
Pricing and Accessories
Honeycomb sets the price at $150 for this fresh controller, which includes several accessories. Among these are a carrying case, which is similar to the one that comes with the Xbox Elite controller, a 2.4GHz dongle, and various levers designed for adapting the gamepad to different aircraft types. These levers cater to both propeller planes and jets.
Features for Gamers
This setup aims to help flight simulator enthusiasts access all necessary functions while gaming on the move. Users can replace traditional flight sticks or yokes, and there’s throttle control and rudder pedals included too. Typically, these would be three separate devices that take up considerable desk space and are not very practical for travel. Honeycomb employs long-lasting Hall effect technology for the stick, and the rudder controls underneath also use Hall effect sensors.
Compatibility and Profiles
The Echo Aviation Controller works with Microsoft Flight Simulator (2020 and 2024), X-Plane 11 and 12 by Laminar Research, and Prepar3D from Lockheed Martin. Honeycomb has already released six downloadable profiles, but they are only for Flight Simulator 2024. Setting up profiles can be a bit tedious in Microsoft’s flight simulator. There are profiles available for single, twin, and four-engine aircraft, along with a general profile and specific profiles for the Boeing 737 Max and Airbus A320 Neo.
Currently, the controller is only usable on PCs and Macs, but there are plans for a console version to be released later, probably announced in 2026. At this time, it’s not clear which consoles will be supported, especially since Microsoft’s Flight Simulator 2024 just became available on PlayStation 5.
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