Aircraft used: Default 32N, LVFR 320, ATR, PMDG 738
Live weather: off
As its name suggests, this scenery covers not only the airport, but much of the island of Corfu. This is the first review in which I’ve specifically turned live weather off, in an effort to conserve as much memory as possible — which right away is indicative of stability issues…
DETAIL
The usual high quality, with a nicely developed terminal, complete with weathering and (unusually for FT) an almost full interior, containing animated passengers. The terminal landside isn’t done in quite the same detail but is nonetheless easy on the eye, with some decent custom roadways and vehicle traffic. There are plenty of smaller, peripheral buildings, all of which are beautifully weathered, and the detail extends quite a way back from the airfield perimeter. The football stadium almost opposite the terminal has been modelled, and of particular significance at this airport is the village of Kanoni, perched atop a hill overlooking the runway 34 threshold. This area is home to a handful of hotels, both large and small, and all have been modelled to some degree. In fact the whole village has been recreated, from the causeway, marina and old monastery at sea level, to the hilltop bars and restaurants affording their patrons superb views of the runway and the bay beyond. The bars, restaurants and hotels all boast static people, and there are even animated swimmers in swimming pools and bathers by the beach!
Going back to the airport, the ground textures are excellent, from the taxiways to the runway. There is even custom approach lighting for runway 34, which is the preferred operational runway.
The whole place just feels really authentic. The detail in Corfu Town is more subdued but it’s great to see the forts and various steeples modelled.
Around the island we get animated marine traffic, ranging from tiny sailboats right the way up to large inter-island ferries and cruise ships. My only complaint is that the large ships move way too fast… unless Greek ships are capable of doing 50kts?!
PERFORMANCE
It probably comes as no surprise to learn that performance isn’t great. Pre-SU13 I couldn’t even land or spawn a flight with the PMDG 737, and although that’s now possible I think this scenery’s in urgent need of some developer attention.
The default and LVFR 320s perform far better, though that’s not to say everything’s perfect. Too much drone use and you’re asking for trouble. Even going a bit overboard with external views can trigger black screens, which typically (but not always) result in a CTD if you continue. Sometimes black screens will pop back to life after departure, but not with the consistency seen at other airports I’ve reviewed.
FT’s Corfu is one of those airports at which problems should realistically be expected. For the level of detail on offer here, one shouldn’t be surprised that black screens and crashes are relatively common. With the scenery’s complexity in mind, it’s not terrible — I have managed many a successful flight in and out of here (even with the PMDG 738, if I stay in the cockpit).
Re framerate performance, it’s been generally very good for me. Sometimes the odd stutter when the whole airport and town are in the frame but I consider it above average when you factor in how much detail’s crammed into quite a small area.
VERDICT
Despite the stability issues — which were slightly improved by SU13 — I do recommend this scenery. It’s hard not to. It’s a beautiful rendition of a beautiful island, and there’s always plenty going on to keep your eyes occupied. The runway 34 approach is particularly stunning, with Kanoni off to your right and the causeway and monastery below (keep any eye out for people cheering and waving on the causeway as you fly over!). However approaching from the opposite end isn’t without its sights, bringing you low over Corfu Town and its port.
With a little care (i.e. limiting drone use and exterior viewing) this airport is a real pleasure to fly in and out of, particularly if you use the default/LVFR 320 or the ATR. There’s a lot to see around the entire island too so do dedicate some time away from the airport with the drone.
IMAGES
