Microsoft Flight Simulator Unveils Local Legend 20: The CAP-4 Paulistinha

A cherished classic beloved for its effortless control and forgiving nature has soared into the lineup of Microsoft Flight Simulator.

Back in the vibrant era of aviation’s golden age in 1931, three trailblazing pioneers in Brazil established Empresa Aeronáutica Ypiranga (EAY), an aviation company. Their ambitious vision was to craft aircraft that would capture the fascination of the burgeoning community inspired by the wonder of flight.

Their maiden creation, the EAY-101, mirrored the German DFS Zögling, a single-seat high-wing sailplane. EAY’s next project was to develop a powered high-wing aircraft, suitable both for training purposes and general flight. This led them to replicate the design of the Taylor Cub, developed by the Taylor Aircraft Company in the US. Thus, the EAY-201 was born—a tandem two-seater equipped with a French Salmson 9AD 40-horsepower radial engine. True to its purpose, it was a breeze to lift off, forgiving in flight, and straightforward to land.

It wasn’t long before Companhia Aeronáutica Paulista (CAP) took interest and acquired EAY, leading to the evolution of the EAY-201 into the CAP-4 Paulistinha by enhancing its engine power. Retaining the charm of its predecessor, the CAP-4 boasted increased speed and a better climb rate—an energizing upgrade for aviation enthusiasts.

The CAP-4 features a steel-tube frame dressed in fabric, with main wings supported by struts, a standard tail assembly, and classic fixed landing gear. It measures 21 feet and 10 inches in length, stands at a height of 6 feet 5 inches, and spans 33 feet 2 inches in wingspan. Powered by a Franklin 4AC flat-four piston engine, it produces 65 horsepower, driving a fixed-pitch, dual-blade wooden propeller. This aircraft can cover 310 miles, reach service ceilings of 13,000 feet, and climb at 610 feet per minute while cruising at 87 mph with a top speed of 96 mph.

The CAP-4 Paulistinha carved its niche among both civil and military users as a versatile training and light aircraft. While its primary skies were those of Brazil, it also spread its wings to Chile, Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Portugal.

For virtual pilots eager to experience the CAP-4, it’s beautifully brought to life by Microsoft Flight Simulator and its partner, iniBuilds. It promises versatility, whether touching down on sprawling international runways or offbeat backcountry strips.

Available now in Microsoft Flight Simulator, the CAP-4 sports six stunning liveries: N505, PP-HCP, PP-HIY, PP-HLJ, PP-TJR, and PT-ZGA. It’s a gift to all owners of the Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, arriving as a token of appreciation for their community’s patience during launch challenges. Now ready for takeoff, it’s priced at $14.99 in the in-sim marketplace.

Microsoft Flight Simulator continues to enhance the aviation experience, available on Xbox Series X|S, PCs, and supported mobile platforms via Xbox Cloud Gaming. Keep an eye on @MSFSOfficial on X (formerly Twitter) or visit www.flightsimulator.com for all the latest updates.