Cowan Simulation
Website: https://cowansim.com Founded: 2015 Headquarters: United States Platforms: MSFS, X-Plane 11/12
Overview
Cowan Simulation (CowanSim) is a prolific helicopter developer known for producing a diverse lineup of high-quality rotorcraft for both Microsoft Flight Simulator and X-Plane. The developer has built a reputation for creating accessible yet detailed helicopters that appeal to both casual flyers and serious rotorhead enthusiasts.
What distinguishes Cowan Simulation is their breadth of coverage—they’ve modeled everything from light training helicopters like the Robinson R22 to medium twins like the Bell 222B and Sikorsky S-76. Their products feature custom 3D modeled instruments, advanced sound design powered by Wwise (MSFS) and FMOD (X-Plane), and their proprietary Stability Augmentation System (SAS) with integrated autopilot modes.
The developer maintains an active presence across both major simulation platforms, ensuring that both MSFS and X-Plane users have access to quality helicopter content. Their commitment to detailed paint kits and multiple liveries also makes their aircraft popular with virtual operators and livery artists.
History
Cowan Simulation began developing helicopter add-ons around 2015, initially focusing on X-Plane. The developer steadily built a portfolio of rotorcraft while establishing their reputation for quality modeling and systems simulation.
When Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 launched with helicopter support, Cowan Simulation was among the first developers to port their existing products to the new platform while also creating MSFS-native aircraft. This dual-platform approach allowed them to reach a broader audience while leveraging their existing development expertise.
Over the years, CowanSim has released over a dozen helicopter models, ranging from piston trainers to turbine utility aircraft, making them one of the most productive helicopter developers in the flight simulation space.
Aircraft Portfolio
Current Products (MSFS)
- H125 (AS350B3e) - Popular single-engine turbine utility helicopter ($32.99)
- H130/EC130 - Fenestron-equipped light turbine helicopter ($29.99)
- MD 500E - Iconic light observation/utility helicopter ($32.99)
- Bell 206B3 JetRanger - Classic light turbine helicopter ($32.99)
- Bell 206L3 LongRanger - Stretched seven-seat variant ($32.99)
- Bell 222B - Twin-engine medium helicopter ($29.99)
- Bell 222UT - Utility variant of the 222 ($19.99)
- Robinson R22 - Two-seat piston trainer ($24.99)
- Robinson R66 - Turbine-powered five-seat helicopter ($29.99)
- CH-1 - Light helicopter ($24.99)
X-Plane Products
- Bell 206 B3 + L3 - Combined JetRanger/LongRanger package ($49.95)
- H125 (AS350B3e) - Single-engine turbine ($32.95)
- Bell 222B/222UT - Available separately or as bundle ($24.95-$39.95)
- MD 500E - Light utility helicopter ($24.95)
Legacy Products
- Earlier X-Plane versions of current aircraft lineup
Notable Achievements
- One of the most prolific helicopter developers for consumer flight simulators
- Successful cross-platform development for both MSFS and X-Plane
- Created proprietary SAS autopilot system with multiple modes (HDG, NAV, SPD, ALT, VRT)
- Developed dynamic sound sets using professional audio middleware
- Provides comprehensive paint kits for community liveries
- Regular updates and active customer support
Community Reputation
Cowan Simulation is well-regarded for offering good value across a diverse helicopter lineup. Their products typically receive ratings of 4.3-5.0 stars, with the Bell 206 series, MD 500E, and R22/R66 being particularly popular. The community appreciates their reasonable pricing ($25-50 range), consistent quality across models, and responsive customer support via Discord. While not always considered the absolute pinnacle of systems depth, CowanSim helicopters are praised for their solid flight dynamics, attractive visuals, and reliable performance. They’re often recommended for simmers who want variety in their helicopter hangar without breaking the bank.